Estradiol metabolism by complementary deoxyribonucleic acid-expressed human cytochrome P450s

Ancestral sequence reconstruction of a cytochrome P450 family involved in chemical defence reveals the functional evolution of a promiscuous, xenobiotic-metabolizing enzyme in vertebrates

The cytochrome P450 family 1 enzymes (CYP1s) are a diverse family of hemoprotein monooxygenases, which metabolize many xenobiotics including numerous environmental carcinogens. However, their historical function and evolution remain largely unstudied. Here we investigate CYP1 evolution via the reconstruction and characterization of the vertebrate CYP1 ancestors. Younger ancestors and extant forms generally demonstrated higher activity toward typical CYP1 xenobiotic and steroid substrates than older ancestors, suggesting significant diversification away from the original CYP1 function. Caffeine metabolism appears to be a recently evolved trait of the CYP1A subfamily, observed in the mammalian CYP1A lineage, and may parallel the recent evolution of caffeine synthesis in multiple separate plant species. Likewise, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist, 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) was metabolized to a greater extent by certain younger ancestors and extant forms, suggesting that activity toward FICZ increased in specific CYP1 evolutionary branches, a process that may have occurred in parallel to the exploitation of land where UV-exposure was higher than in aquatic environments. As observed with previous reconstructions of P450 enzymes, thermostability correlated with evolutionary age; the oldest ancestor was up to 35 °C more thermostable than the extant forms, with a ¹⁰T₅₀ (temperature at which 50% of the hemoprotein remains intact after 10 min) of 71 °C. This robustness may have facilitated evolutionary diversification of the CYP1s by buffering the destabilizing effects of mutations that conferred novel functions, a phenomenon which may also be useful in exploiting the catalytic versatility of these ancestral enzymes for commercial application as biocatalysts.

Biological roles of cytochrome P450 1A1, 1A2, and 1B1 enzymes

Human cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) play a critical role in various biological processes and human diseases. CYP1 family members, including CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1, are induced by aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhRs). The binding of ligands such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons activates the AhRs, which are involved in the metabolism (including oxidation) of various endogenous or exogenous substrates. The ligands that induce CYP1 expression are reported to be carcinogenic xenobiotics. Hence, CYP1 enzymes are correlated with the pathogenesis of cancers. Various endogenous substrates are involved in the metabolism of steroid hormones, eicosanoids, and other biological molecules that mediate the pathogenesis of several human diseases. Additionally, CYP1s metabolize and activate/inactivate therapeutic drugs, especially, anti-cancer agents. As the metabolism of drugs determines their therapeutic efficacy, CYP1s can determine the susceptibility of patients to some drugs. Thus, understanding the role of CYP1s in diseases and establishing novel and efficient therapeutic strategies based on CYP1s have piqued the interest of the scientific community.

Inhibition of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase activity by selected environmental xenobiotics

The function of Cu,Zn-SOD is to dismutate superoxide into hydrogen peroxide and oxygen. This task is fulfilled due to structural nuances of the enzyme. Many environmental xenobiotics have been proved to inhibit Cu,Zn-SOD. Those compounds could be found not only in industrial sewage, cigarettes and various chemical agents - some of them are used as drugs, drug production substrates or are the product of drug biotransformation. Cu,Zn-SOD exposition to these compounds leads to inhibition due to: copper ion chelation, unfolding the structure of the enzyme, affecting residues vital for activity maintenance. This review covers a selection of Cu,Zn-SOD inhibitors, referring to in vivo and in vitro study.

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel 2-methoxyestradiol analogs as dual selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and antiangiogenic agents

2-methoxyestradiol is a novel agent showing both anti-angiogenic and vascular disrupting properties. In this study, a series of 11α-substituted 2-methoxyestradiol analogs have been designed and synthesized targeting dual ERα and microtubulin. Biological evaluation was performed on their anti-proliferative activities against 5 different cell lines. The results indicated that most compounds exhibited good activities, in which compound 24c and 30c showed the best activity with low micromolar IC₅₀ (2.73 μM -7.75 μM) in all cell lines. The investigation of ER affinity showed that the majority of the compounds displayed good activity at the concentration of 50 μM. In further mechanism study, it was observed that 24c and 30c could induce G2/M cell cycle arrest as well as significant anti-estrogenic activity. In CAM assay, compound 24c and 30c presented significantly anti-angiogenesis activity comparable with 2-methoxyestradiol. Overall, based on biological activities data, 24c and 30c can be identified as a potential lead molecule which might be of therapeutic importance for cancer treatment.

Ginsenoside Rb1 Inhibits Doxorubicin-Triggered H9C2 Cell Apoptosis via Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a highly effective chemotherapeutic agent; however, the dose-dependent cardiotoxicity associated with DOX significantly limits its clinical application. In the present study, we investigated whether Rb1 could prevent DOX-induced apoptosis in H9C2 cells via aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). H9C2 cells were treated with various concentrations (− μM) of Rb1. AhR, CYP1A protein and mRNA expression were quantified with Western blot and real-time PCR analyses. We also evaluated the expression levels of caspase-3 to assess the anti-apoptotic effects of Rb1. Our results showed that Rb1 attenuated DOX-induced cardiomyocytes injury and apoptosis and reduced caspase-3 and caspase-8, but not caspase-9 activity in DOX-treated H9C2 cells. Meanwhile, pre-treatment with Rb1 decreased the expression of caspase-3 and PARP in the protein levels, with no effects on cytochrome c, Bax, and Bcl-2 in DOX-stimulated cells. Rb1 markedly decreased the CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 expression induced by DOX. Furthermore, transfection with AhR siRNA or pre-treatment with AhR antagonist CH-223191 significantly inhibited the ability of Rb1 to decrease the induction of CYP1A, as well as caspase-3 protein levels following stimulation with DOX. In conclusion, these findings indicate that AhR plays an important role in the protection of Ginsenoside Rb1 against DOX-triggered apoptosis of H9C2 cells.

Recent Advances in chemistry and pharmacology of 2-methoxyestradiol: An anticancer investigational drug

2-Methoxyestradiol (2ME2), an estrogen hormone metabolite is a potential cancer chemotherapeutic agent. Presently, it is an investigational drug under various phases of clinical trials alone or in combination therapy. Its anticancer activity has been attributed to its antitubulin, antiangiogenic, pro-apoptotic and ROS induction properties. This anticancer drug candidate has been explored extensively in last twenty years for its detailed chemistry and pharmacology. Present review is an update of its chemistry and biological activity. It also extends an assessment of potential of 2ME2 and its analogues as possible anticancer drug in future.

The Role of Human Aldo-Keto Reductases in the Metabolic Activation and Detoxication of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Interconversion of PAH Catechols and PAH o-Quinones

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants. They are procarcinogens requiring metabolic activation to elicit their deleterious effects. Aldo-keto reductases (AKR) catalyze the oxidation of proximate carcinogenic PAH trans-dihydrodiols to yield electrophilic and redox-active PAH o-quinones. AKRs are also found to be capable of reducing PAH o-quinones to form PAH catechols. The interconversion of o-quinones and catechols results in the redox-cycling of PAH o-quinones to give rise to the generation of reactive oxygen species and subsequent oxidative DNA damage. On the other hand, PAH catechols can be intercepted through phase II metabolism by which PAH o-quinones could be detoxified and eliminated. The aim of the present review is to summarize the role of human AKRs in the metabolic activation/detoxication of PAH and the relevance of phase II conjugation reactions to human lung carcinogenesis.

Evaluation of drug interactions in intact hepatocytes: Inhibitors of terfenadine metabolism

Terfenadine has been associated with several adverse drug interactions and it was of interest to develop in vitro systems to explain and predict such interactions. The metabolism of terfenadine was studied using intact hepatocytes from primary human and rat hepatocyte cultures, and the immortalized human hepatoma cell line HepG2. Rates and routes of biotransformation were analysed by HPLC. Terfenadine was extensively metabolized by all three cell culture systems during exposure periods ranging from 4 to 24 hr. Human and rat hepatocytes and HepG2 cells formed products of C-oxidation (an acid metabolite and its precursor alcohol metabolite). Human hepatocytes also formed the N-dealkylation product azacyclonol. Several cytochrome P4503A (CYP3A) substrates and inhibitors were evaluated for their ability to inhibit terfenadine biotransformation. In rat hepatocytes, ketoconazole, erythromycin and troleandomycin failed to inhibit; in HepG2 cells, only ketoconazole potently inhibited terfenadine metabolism. In human hepatocytes, ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, troleandomycin, cyclosporin and naringenin inhibited terfenadine metabolism. The results suggest that human hepatocytes may be a useful system for screening for inhibitors of terfenadine metabolism.

Induction of cytochrome P450 1A1 in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells by 4-chlorobiphenyl (PCB3) and the effects of its hydroxylated metabolites on cellular apoptosis

Several studies suggest an involvement of PCBs in breast cancer formation, but the results are ambiguous and the mechanisms not clear. We propose that local activation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 by PCB3, may generate active metabolites which affect apoptosis and thereby promote mammary carcinogenesis. To test this hypothesis MCF-7 human breast cancer cells were exposed to 300 nM PCB3 and its hydroxylated metabolites, 4OH-PCB and 3,4diOH-PCB3. The enzyme activity for CYP1A1 was assayed using the EROD assay, and CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 protein expression by western blotting. PCB3 increased CYP1A1 activity (~1.5fold) and protein levels within 6h after exposure. No effect on CYP1B1 protein expression was observed. The effects of PCB3 and both its metabolites on staurosporine-induced apoptosis were determined by measuring DNA fragmentation using ELISA and TUNEL assays, and by measuring caspase-8 and caspase-9 activity. We found that PCB3 and both of its hydroxylated metabolites had no effect on caspase-8 and caspase-9 activity when cells were grown in medium deprived of estrogen, but reduced caspase-9 activity when cells were grown in medium supplemented with serum containing estradiol. Interestingly, a decrease of DNA fragmentation was observed upon treatment with 3,4diOH-PCB3 in both culture conditions, suggesting that 3,4diOH-PCB3 affects a caspase-independent pathway of cell death. In summary, interactions of PCB3 and its metabolites with estradiol by yet unknown mechanisms inhibit caspase 9-related apoptosis and additional, other death pathways are affected by the catechol metabolite 3,4diOH-PCB3. These anti-apoptotic effects and the change in metabolic activity may contribute to the carcinogenic effect of PCBs.

Cytochrome P450 gender-related differences in response to hyperoxia in young CBA mice

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) represent large class of heme-containing enzymes that catalyze the metabolism of various endogenous and exogenous substrates. Although they are found in many tissues, the function of the particular subset of their isoforms does not appear to be the same. Many CYP genes exhibit sexually dimorphic expression, while others are sex-independent. Moreover, as a source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), P450 system is believed to play the important role in various pathological conditions and diseases. The aim of this study was to observe the effect of hyperoxia on oxidant/antioxidant status in the liver of young male and female mice and to determine whether the observed effects are associated with the expression of Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and CYP genes associated with stress (Cyp1a1, Cyp1a2, Cyp2a5, and Cyp2e1) or stress and gender-related responses (Cyp2b9). In this study, we demonstrated gender-related effect of hyperoxia on oxidant/antioxidant status and on expression of certain P450 enzymes. Our results suggest that females are less susceptible to hyperoxia induced oxidative stress by two major mechanisms: upregulated expression of HO-1 genes and different expression of certain P450 enzymes. Therefore, our study could provide additional data of gender-dependent responses in susceptibility to oxidative stress, chemical toxicity and drug efficiency in treatment of diseases.

CYP1B1 is not a major determinant of the disposition of aromatase inhibitors in epithelial cells of invasive ductal carcinoma

CYP1B1 and CYP19 (aromatase) have been shown to be expressed in breast tumors. Both enzymes are efficient estrogen hydroxylases, indicating the potential for overlapping substrate and inhibitor specificity. We measured the inhibition properties of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) against CYP1B1-catalyzed hydroxylation of 17beta-estradiol (E2) to determine whether CYP1B1 affects the disposition of AIs. In addition, we estimated the frequency of coexpression of these enzymes in breast tumor epithelium. Immunohistochemical analyses of CYP19 and CYP1B1 in a panel of 29 cases of invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast showed epithelial cell staining for CYP19 in 76% and for CYP1B1 in 97% of the samples. Statistical analysis showed no significant correlation (0.33) for positive expression of CYP19 and CYP1B1 (p > 0.07). CYP1B1 inhibition was determined for two steroidal inhibitors: formestane and exemestane and five nonsteroidal inhibitors: aminoglutethimide, fadrozole, anastrozole, letrozole, and vorozole. Of the seven compounds tested, only vorozole exhibited inhibition of CYP1B1 activity with IC(50) values of 17 and 21 microM for 4-hydroxy estradiol and 2-hydroxy estradiol, respectively. The estimated K(i) values of vorozole for E2 4- and 2-hydroxylation were 7.26 and 6.84 microM, respectively. Spectrophotometric studies showed that vorozole was a type II inhibitor of CYP1B1. This study shows that with the exception of vorozole, the aromatase inhibitors are selective for CYP19 relative to CYP1B1. Thus, although both CYP19 and CYP1B1 are expressed in a high percentage of breast cancers, CYP1B1 is not a major determinant of the disposition of AIs.

CYP3A4 and pregnane X receptor humanized mice

Marked species differences exist in P450 expression and activities. In order to produce mouse models that can be used to more accurately predict human drug and carcinogen metabolism, P450- and xenobiotic receptor humanized mice are being prepared using bacterial artificial chromosomes (BAC) and P1 phage artificial chromosomes (PAC) genomic clones. In some cases, transgenic mice carrying the human genes are bred with null-mice to produce fully humanized mice. Mice expressing human CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2E1, CYP2D6, CYP3A4, and CYP3A7 were generated and characterized. Studies with the CYP3A4-humanized (hCYP3A4) mouse line revealed new information on the physiological function of this P450 and its role in drug metabolism in vivo. With this mouse line, CYP3A4, under certain circumstances, was found to alter the serum levels of estrogen resulting in deficient lactation and low pup survival as a result of underdeveloped mammary glands. This hCYP3A4 mouse established the importance of intestinal CYP3A4 in the pharmacokinetics of orally administered drugs. The hCYP3A4 mice were also used to establish the mechanisms of potential gender differences in CYP3A4 expression (adult female > adult male) that could account for human gender differences in drug metabolism and response. The pregnane X receptor (PXR) is also involved in induction of drug metabolism through its target genes including CYP3A4. Since species differences exist in ligand specificity between human and mice, a PXR-humanized mouse (hPXR) was produced that responds to human PXR activators such as rifampicin but does not respond to the rodent activator pregnenalone 16alpha-carbonitrile.

Soy protein isolate increases urinary estrogens and the ratio of 2:16alpha-hydroxyestrone in men at high risk of prostate cancer

Specific estrogen metabolites may initiate and promote hormone-related cancers. In epidemiological studies, significantly lower excretion of urinary estradiol (E2) and lower ratio of urinary 2-hydroxy estrogens to 16alpha-hydroxyestrone (2:16 OH-E1) have been reported in prostate cancer cases compared to controls. Although soy supplementation has been shown to increase the ratio 2:16 OH-E1 in women, no studies to our knowledge have investigated the effects of soy supplementation on estrogen metabolism in men. The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to determine the effects of soy protein isolate consumption on estrogen metabolism in men at high risk for developing advanced prostate cancer. Fifty-eight men supplemented their habitual diets with 1 of 3 protein isolates: 1) isoflavone-rich soy protein isolate (SPI+) (107 mg isoflavones/d); 2) alcohol-washed soy protein isolate (SPI-) (<6 mg isoflavones/d); or 3) milk protein isolate (MPI), each providing 40 g protein/d. At 0, 3, and 6 mo of supplementation, the urinary estrogen metabolite profile was measured by GC-MS. Both soy groups had higher E2 excretion than the MPI group at 3 and 6 mo. After 6 mo of supplementation, the SPI+ group had a significantly higher urinary 2:16 OH-E1 ratio than the MPI group. Increased urinary E2 excretion and 2:16 OH-E1 ratio in men consuming soy protein isolate are consistent with studies in postmenopausal women and suggest that soy consumption may be beneficial in men at high risk of progressing to advanced prostate cancer as a result of effects on endogenous estrogen metabolism.

Characterization of in vitro and in vivo metabolic pathways of the investigational anticancer agent, 2-methoxyestradiol

The aim of this study was to characterize the metabolic pathways of 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2), an investigational anticancer drug. In vitro metabolism studies were performed by incubation of 2ME2 with human liver microsomes under various conditions and metabolite identification was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In microsomal mixtures, four major oxidative metabolites and two glucuronic acid conjugates were observed originating from 2ME2. Human liver S9 protein fraction was used to screen for in vitro sulfation but no prominent conjugates were observed. The total hepatic clearance as estimated using the well-stirred model was approximately 712 mL/min. In vivo metabolism, assessed using 24-h collections of urine from cancer patients treated with 2ME2 revealed that <0.01% of the total administered dose of 2ME2 is excreted unchanged in urine and about 1% excreted as glucuronides. Collectively, this suggests that glucuronidation and subsequent urinary excretion are elimination pathways for 2ME2.

Enhancer elements in the mouse CYP1A2 gene: A comparative sequencing among different inbred mouse strains

CYP1A2 expression is constitutively high in mouse liver and is well known for metabolizing several drugs and many procarcinogens to reactive intermediates that can cause toxicity or cancer. In the present study, the basal level of hepatic CYP1A2 activity was shown to vary among different inbred mouse strains. The highest methoxyresorufin-O-demethylase activity (261+/-52pmol/mgprotein/min) was registered in CC57BR and the lowest (82+/-11pmol/mgprotein/min) in C3H/a. We have tested the hypothesis that possible polymorphisms in regulatory elements in the 5'-upstream region of the mouse CYP1A2 gene could cause the differences in CYP1A2 enzyme activity among different inbred strains. We have performed a study on the CYP1A2 gene by sequencing the regulatory region from -4675 to -4204 where two enhancer elements were recently identified. The absence of mutation prescribing the phenotype in the CYP1A2 gene was found. The region studied seems to be a highly conserved in mice and not to be associated with interstrain differences in constitutive CYP1A2 enzyme activity.

Rofecoxib is a potent, metabolism-dependent inhibitor of CYP1A2: implications for in vitro prediction of drug interactions

Rofecoxib was recently found to greatly increase plasma concentrations of the CYP1A2 substrate drug tizanidine in humans, but there are no published in vitro studies on the CYP1A2-inhibiting effects of rofecoxib. Our objective was to investigate whether rofecoxib is a direct-acting or metabolism-dependent inhibitor of CYP1A2 in vitro. The effect of rofecoxib on the O-deethylation of phenacetin (20 microM) was studied using human liver microsomes. The effect of preincubation time on the inhibitory potential of rofecoxib was also studied, and the inhibitor concentration that supports half the maximal rate of inactivation (KI) and the maximal rate of inactivation (kinact) were determined. Rofecoxib moderately inhibited phenacetin O-deethylation (IC50 23.0 microM), and a 30-min preincubation with microsomes and NADPH considerably increased its inhibitory effect (IC50 4.2 microM). Inactivation of CYP1A2 by rofecoxib required NADPH, and was characterized by a KI of 4.8 microM and a kinact of 0.07 min(-1). Glutathione, superoxide dismutase, mannitol, or dialysis could not reverse the inactivation of CYP1A2 caused by rofecoxib. Fluvoxamine decreased the rofecoxib-caused inactivation of CYP1A2 in a concentration-dependent manner. In conclusion, rofecoxib is a potent, metabolism-dependent inhibitor of CYP1A2, a cytochrome P450 form contributing to rofecoxib metabolism. The results provide a mechanistic explanation for the interactions of rofecoxib with CYP1A2 substrates and may partially explain its nonlinear pharmacokinetics.

CYP1A in TCDD toxicity and in physiology-with particular reference to CYP dependent arachidonic acid metabolism and other endogenous substrates

Toxicologic and physiologic roles of CYP1A enzyme induction, the major biochemical effect of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation by TCDD and other receptor ligands, are unknown. Evidence is presented that CYP1A exerts biologic effects via metabolism of endogenous substrates (i.e., arachidonic acid, other eicosanoids, estrogens, bilirubin, and melatonin), production of reactive oxygen, and effects on K(+) and Ca(2+) channels. These interrelated pathways may connect CYP1A induction to TCDD toxicities, including cardiotoxicity, vascular dysfunction, and wasting. They may also underlie homeostatic roles for CYP1A, especially when transiently induced by common chemical exposures and environmental conditions (i.e., tryptophan photoproducts, dietary indoles, and changes in oxygen tension).

New evidences for old biomarkers: effects of several xenobiotics on EROD and AChE activities in Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha)

The biomarker approach is widely used both in vertebrates and invertebrates for environmental biomonitoring, because it can supply an integrated response for multi-xenobiotics contamination. However, the use of biomarkers requires the identification of every possible variation that can influence the biochemical response, because ecosystems are generally subject to a mixture of pollutants, which can create additive, opposite or competitive effects. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in the use of biomarkers within marine bivalves, while very few data are available for freshwater molluscs. The aim of this research was to investigate changes on EROD and AChE activities in the freshwater bivalve Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) exposed to different pollutants (Arochlor 1260, CB 153 and 126, pp'DDT, chlorpyrifos, carbaryl) at laboratory conditions, in order to standardize the analytical procedures and to highlight eventual interferences on enzyme activities. Chemical concentrations in the mussel soft tissues were analyzed by GC/MS-MS. Main results showed a significant induction of EROD activity when mussels were exposed to 100 ng/l of PCB mixture of Arochlor 1260 and dioxin-like CB 126, but this congener showed also a clear competitive inhibition after 48 h of exposure. Surprisingly, pp'DDT determined a significant decrease of basal EROD activity after only 24 h of exposure, even if it was not possible to discriminate between the effect of the parent compound and that of its metabolites (DDD, DDE). We also found an interaction between the organophosphate insecticide chlorpyrifos, which does not directly decrease the AChE activity, and terbutilazine. This herbicide increased the biotransformation of the organophosphate compound to its oxidized metabolite (oxon), a much stronger AChE inhibitor. The possible use of the oxime Pyridine-2-Aldoxime Methochloride (2-PAM) to bring back the catalytic activity to basal levels was also demonstrated.

Risk of Testicular Germ Cell Cancer in Relation to Variation in Maternal and Offspring Cytochrome P450 Genes Involved in Catechol Estrogen Metabolism

The incidence of testicular germ cell carcinoma (TGCC) is highest among men ages 20 to 44 years. Exposure to relatively high circulating maternal estrogen levels during pregnancy has long been suspected as being a risk factor for TGCC. Catechol (hydroxylated) estrogens have carcinogenic potential, thought to arise from reactive catechol intermediates with enhanced capability of forming mutation-inducing DNA adducts. Polymorphisms in maternal or offspring genes encoding estrogen-metabolizing enzymes may influence prenatal catechol estrogen levels and could therefore be biomarkers of TGCC risk. We conducted a population-based, case-parent triad study to evaluate TGCC risk in relation to maternal and/or offspring polymorphisms in CYP1A2, CYP1B1, CYP3A4, and CYP3A5. We identified 18- to 44-year-old men diagnosed with invasive TGCC from 1999 to 2004 through a population-based cancer registry in Washington State and recruited cases and their parents (110 case-parent triads, 50 case-parent dyads). Maternal or offspring carriage of CYP1A2 -163A was associated with reduced risk of TGCC [maternal heterozygote relative risk (RR), 0.6; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.2-1.7; offspring heterozygote RR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.3-1.5)]. Maternal CYP1B1 (48)Gly homozygosity was associated with a 2.7-fold increased risk of TGCC (95% CI, 0.9-7.9), with little evidence that Leu(432)Val or Asn(453)Ser genotypes were related to risk. Men were also at increased risk of TGCC if they carried the CYP3A4 -392G (RR, 7.0; 95% CI, 1.6-31) or CYP3A5 6986G (RR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.1-5.6) alleles. These results support the hypothesis that maternal and/or offspring catechol estrogen activity may influence sons' risk of TGCC.

Cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism of estrogens and its regulation in human

Estrogens are eliminated from the body by metabolic conversion to estrogenically inactive metabolites that are excreted in the urine and/or feces. The first step in the metabolism of estrogens is the hydroxylation catalyzed by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Since most CYP isoforms are abundantly expressed in liver, the metabolism of estrogens mainly occurs in the liver. A major metabolite of estradiol, 2-hydroxyestradiol, is mainly catalyzed by CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 in liver, and by CYP1A1 in extrahepatic tissues. However, CYP1B1 which is highly expressed in estrogen target tissues including mammary, ovary, and uterus, specifically catalyzes the 4-hydroxylation of estradiol. Since 4-hydroxyestradiol generates free radicals from the reductive-oxidative cycling with the corresponding semiquinone and quinone forms, which cause cellular damage, the specific and local formation of 4-hydroxyestradiol is important for breast and endometrial carcinogenesis. Changes in the expression level of estrogen-metabolizing CYP isoforms not only alter the intensity of the action of estrogen but may also alter the profile of its physiological effect in liver and target tissues. Generally, many CYP isoforms are induced by the substrates themselves, resulting in enhanced metabolism and elimination from the body. Of particular interest is a novel finding that human CYP1B1 is regulated by estradiol via the estrogen receptor. This fact suggests that the regulation of CYP enzymes involved in estrogen metabolism by estrogen itself would be physiologically significant for the homeostasis of estrogens at local organs. In this mini-review, we discuss the CYP-mediated metabolism of estrogens and the regulation of the estrogen-metabolizing CYP enzymes in relation to the risk of cancer.

Potential role for human cytochrome P450 3A4 in estradiol homeostasis

Previously, a human CYP3A4-transgenic (Tg-CYP3A4) mouse line was reported to exhibit enhanced metabolism of midazolam by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) expressed in small intestine. Here we show that expression of CYP3A4 and murine cyp3a and cyp2b was both age and sex dependent. CYP3A4 was expressed in the livers of male and female Tg-CYP3A4 mice at 2 and 4 wk of age. Since 6 wk, CYP3A4 was undetectable in male livers, whereas it was constitutively expressed in female livers at decreased levels (3- to 5-fold). Pregnenolone 16alpha-carbonitrile markedly induced hepatic CYP3A4 expression, and the level was higher in females than males. Induction of intrinsic murine cyp3a and cyp2b was also sex dependent. Tg-CYP3A4 females were found to be deficient in lactation, leading to a markedly lower pup survival. The mammary glands of the Tg-CYP3A4 lactating mothers had underdeveloped alveoli with low milk content. Furthermore, beta-casein and whey acidic protein mRNAs were expressed at markedly lower levels in Tg-CYP3A4 pregnant and nursing mouse mammary glands compared with wild-type mice. This impaired lactation phenotype was associated with significantly reduced serum estradiol levels in Tg-CYP3A4 mice. A pharmacokinetic study revealed that the clearance of iv administrated [(3)H]estradiol was markedly enhanced in Tg-CYP3A4 mice compared with wild-type mice. These results suggest that CYP3A4 may play an important role in estradiol homeostasis. This may be of concern for treatment of pregnant and lactating women because CYP3A4 gene expression and enzymatic activity can be potentially modified by CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers in medications, supplements, beverages, and diet.

Identification of non-functional allelic variant of CYP1A2 in dogs

OBJECTIVES

Recently, we reported that AC-3933, a novel cognitive enhancer, is polymorphically hydroxylated in beagle dogs and that dogs could be phenotyped as extensive metabolizers (EM) or poor metabolizers (PM). AC-3933 polymorphic hydroxylation is caused by polymorphic expression of CYP1A2 protein in dog liver.

METHODS

In order to clarify the mechanism of polymorphic expression of CYP1A2 protein in beagle dogs, we investigated, in this study, the sequence of CYP1A2 cDNA in EM and PM dogs.

RESULTS

In PM dogs CYP1A2 gene, we discovered a nonsense mutation (C1117T) that induces a premature termination, and is associated with PM phenotype for AC-3933 hydroxylation. All PM dogs studied were homozygote of the mutant allele (m/m) and seemed to be CYP1A2-null phenotype as they lacked the heme-binding region in CYP1A2. These results indicate that the polymorphic expression of CYP1A2 protein observed in our previous study is caused by a single nucleotide polymorphism on CYP1A2 coding region. Furthermore, we developed a genotyping method for the mutant allele using a mismatch PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism, and carried out frequency analysis in 149 beagle dogs.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that more than 10% of the dogs studied were CYP1A2-null. Because CYP1A2-null phenotype in dogs affects the results of pharmacokinetic, toxicological and pharmacological studies of drug candidates, these findings are important in the pharmaceutical and the veterinary fields.

NADPH-dependent metabolism of 17beta-estradiol and estrone to polar and nonpolar metabolites by human tissues and cytochrome P450 isoforms

The endogenous estrogens, 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) and estrone (E(1)), undergo extensive metabolism in animals and humans, and a large number of their hydroxylated and keto metabolites have been identified in biological samples. The formation of most of the oxidative estrogen metabolites is catalyzed by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Precise knowledge of the CYP-mediated formation of these metabolites, particularly those with unique biological activities (e.g., 4-hydroxy-E(2), 16alpha-hydroxy-E(1), 15alpha-hydroxy-E(2), 16-epiestriol, and 2-methoxyestradiol) in human liver and extrahepatic target tissues and cells, would add significantly to our understanding of the diverse biological functions that are associated with endogenous estrogens. In this article, we review recent results on the NADPH-dependent metabolism of endogenous estrogens to polar (hydroxylated and keto) metabolites as well as to nonpolar metabolites by human tissues and recombinant human CYP isoforms. The available data show that a large number of polar and nonpolar metabolites of E(2) and E(1) are formed by human tissues, and a variety of human CYP isoforms are involved in the NADPH-dependent formation of polar as well as nonpolar estrogen metabolites. These enzymes have varying degrees of catalytic activity and distinct regioselectivity.

NADPH-dependent formation of polar and nonpolar estrogen metabolites following incubations of 17 beta-estradiol with human liver microsomes

By using a versatile high-pressure liquid chromatography method (total elution time approximately 135 min) developed in the present study, we detected the formation of some 20 nonpolar radioactive metabolite peaks (designated as M1 through M20), in addition to a large number of polar hydroxylated or keto metabolites, following incubations of [(3)H]17beta-estradiol with human liver microsomes or cytochrome P450 3A4 in the presence of NADPH as a cofactor. The formation of most of the nonpolar estrogen metabolite peaks (except M9) was dependent on the presence of human liver microsomal proteins, and could be selectively inhibited by the presence of carbon monoxide. Among the four cofactors (NAD, NADH, NADP, NADPH) tested, NADPH was the optimum cofactor for the metabolic formation of polar and nonpolar estrogen metabolites in vitro, although NADH also had a weak ability to support the reactions. These observations suggest that the formation of most of the nonpolar estrogen metabolite peaks requires the presence of liver microsomal enzymes and NADPH. Chromatographic analyses showed that these nonpolar estrogen metabolites were not the monomethyl ethers of catechol estrogens or the fatty acid esters of 17beta-estradiol. Analyses using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and NMR showed that M15 and M16, two representative major nonpolar estrogen metabolites, are diaryl ether dimers of 17beta-estradiol. The data of our present study suggest a new metabolic pathway for the NADPH-dependent, microsomal enzyme-mediated formation of estrogen diaryl ether dimers, along with other nonpolar estrogen metabolites.

Determination of 2-methoxyestradiol in human plasma, using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry

A liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric (LC/MS/MS) assay was developed for the quantitative determination of 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2) in human plasma. Sample pretreatment involved liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate of 0.3-mL aliquots of plasma spiked with the internal standard, deuterated 2ME2 (2ME2-d5). Separation was achieved on a Zorbax Eclipse C18 column (2.1 x 50 mm, i.d., 5 microm) at room temperature using a gradient elution with methanol and water at a flow rate of 0.25 mL/min. Detection was performed using atmospheric pressure chemical ionization MS/MS by monitoring the ion transitions from m/z 303.1 --> 136.8 (2ME2) and m/z 308.1 --> 138.8 (2ME2-d5). Calibration curves were linear in the concentration range of 1-100 ng/mL. The accuracy and precision values, obtained from three different sets of quality control samples analyzed in quintuplicate on four separate occasions, ranged from 105-108% and from 3.62-5.68%, respectively. This assay was subsequently used for the determination of 2ME2 concentration in plasma of a patient with cancer after a single oral administration of 2ME2 at a dose of 2200 mg.

CYTOCHROME P450-MEDIATED OXIDATION OF GLUCURONIDE DERIVATIVES: EXAMPLE OF ESTRADIOL-17β-GLUCURONIDE OXIDATION TO 2-HYDROXY-ESTRADIOL-17β-GLUCURONIDE BY CYP 2C8

In the classical metabolic oxidation scheme, hydrophobic endogenous or xenobiotic compounds undergo phase I oxidation, generally catalyzed in the liver by cytochromes P450, followed by phase II conjugation reactions, in a way that allows much more polar metabolites to be expelled from the cell through active transport mechanisms. Cytochrome P450-mediated oxidation of steroid sulfate has been described, suggesting that oxidation of polar metabolites such as glucuronide derivatives of endogenous compounds can occur. As an example, we report here that hydroxyestradiol-17beta-glucuronide can be directly formed through oxidation of estradiol-17beta-glucuronide on the aromatic C2 position. This reaction is specifically catalyzed by CYP 2C8, which is more active in female than in male human liver microsomes. A thorough docking of the molecule within the CYP 2C8 crystal structure shows that the active site is large enough to handle a glucuronide conjugate. Moreover, the most energetically favored position of the bound ligand is fully consistent with the recently published structural determinants of substrate specificity of the CYP 2C8 active site. This is the first demonstration of cytochrome P450-mediated oxidation of a steroid glucuro-conjugate. Such oxidation of a glucuronide should be a general process since, in addition to estradiol and testosterone glucuronide, it has been observed for xenobiotic compounds, e.g., diclofenac or naproxen glucuronide.

CYP1A2 is not required for 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced immunosuppression

One of the most sensitive and reproducible immunotoxic endpoints of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure is suppression of the antibody response to sheep red blood cells (SRBCs) in mice. Immunosuppression occurs in concert with hepatomegaly and associated induction of several hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP1A2 which is responsible for the hepatic sequestration of TCDD. In this study, TCDD-induced immunosuppression was evaluated in C57BL/6N CYP1A2 (+/+) wild-type and compared with that of age-matched CYP1A2 (-/-) knockout and CYP1A2 (+/-) heterozygous female mice. Groups of mice were given a single gavage dose of 0, 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0 or 10.0microg TCDD/kg, followed 7 days later by immunization with SRBCs. Serum was obtained 5 days after immunization and body, spleen, thymus and liver weights were measured. sheep red blood cell (SRBC) antibody titers were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Anti-SRBC titers were suppressed at 1.0, 1.0 and 0.3microg TCDD/kg for CYP1A2 (+/+), CYP1A2 (+/-), and CYP1A2 (-/-) mice, respectively, which indicated a three-fold increase in TCDD-induced immunosuppression for the CYP1A2 (-/-) mice. This increase in TCDD-induced immunosuppression may be due to the inability of CYP1A2 (-/-) mice to sequester TCDD in the liver leading to a higher dose to the immune system. In CYP1A2 (+/+) mice, a dose of 3.0microg TCDD/kg was sufficient to increase the liver weight, while in CYP1A2 (-/-) mice no increase in liver weight was observed. Application of analysis of variance and dose-response modeling approaches indicate that there is little evidence that the immunosuppression dose-response curves, for the three strains, differ in the lower part of the dose-response range. Thus, CYP1A2 is not required for TCDD-induced immunosuppression in the mouse.

Discovery of cytochrome P450 1B1 inhibitors as new promising anti-cancer agents

Human cytochrome P450 (CYP)1B1 is a major enzyme for carcinogenic estrogen metabolism and involved in the metabolic activation of procarcinogens of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). CYP1B1 is known to be expressed at a high frequency in various human cancers, but not in normal tissues. It also plays an important role in the metabolism of various anti-cancer drugs. These findings suggest inhibition of CYP1B1 as a new oncological therapeutic strategy. Several natural and synthetic compounds have been studied in an effort to find the isoform-specific inhibitors of the CYP1 subfamily. A survey of the inhibitors of CYP1B1 and other related inhibitors of the CYP1 subfamily is provided in this review.

Characterization of the oxidative metabolites of 17beta-estradiol and estrone formed by 15 selectively expressed human cytochrome p450 isoforms

We systematically characterized the oxidative metabolites of 17beta-estradiol and estrone formed by 15 human cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms. CYP1A1 had high activity for 17beta-estradiol 2-hydroxylation, followed by 15alpha-, 6alpha-, 4-, and 7alpha-hydroxylation. However, when estrone was the substrate, CYP1A1 formed more 4-hydroxyestrone than 15alpha- or 6alpha-hydroxyestrone, with 2-hydroxyestrone as the major metabolite. CYP1A2 had the highest activity for the 2-hydroxylation of both 17beta-estradiol and estrone, although it also had considerable activity for their 4-hydroxylation (9-13% of 2-hydroxylation). CYP1B1 mainly catalyzed the formation of catechol estrogens, with 4-hydroxyestrogens predominant. CYP2A6, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, and 2D6 each showed a varying degree of low catalytic activity for estrogen 2-hydroxylation, whereas CYP2C18 and CYP2E1 did not show any detectable estrogen-hydroxylating activity. CYP3A4 had strong activity for the formation of 2-hydroxyestradiol, followed by 4-hydroxyestradiol and an unknown polar metabolite, and small amounts of 16alpha- and 16beta-hydroxyestrogens were also formed. The ratio of 4- to 2-hydroxylation of 17beta-estradiol or estrone with CYP3A4 was 0.22 or 0.51, respectively. CYP3A5 had similar catalytic activity for the formation of 2- and 4- hydroxyestrogens. Notably, CYP3A5 had an unusually high ratio of 4- to 2-hydroxylation of 17beta-estradiol or estrone (0.53 or 1.26, respectively). CYP3A4 and 3A5 also catalyzed the formation of nonpolar estrogen metabolite peaks (chromatographically less polar than estrone). CYP3A7 had a distinct catalytic activity for the 16alpha-hydroxylation of estrone, but not 17beta-estradiol. CYP4A11 had little catalytic activity for the metabolism of 17beta-estradiol and estrone. In conclusion, many human CYP isoforms are involved in the oxidative metabolism of 17beta-estradiol and estrone, with a varying degree of catalytic activity and distinct regioselectivity.

2-Methoxyestradiol, a promising anticancer agent

Estrogens occurring naturally in the body are metabolized to catecholestrogens (2- and 4-hydroxyestradiol) by the cytochrome P450 enzymes. 2-Hydroxy catecholestrogens are further metabolized by catechol-O-methyltransferase to 2-methoxyestradiol, which is known to be protective against tumor formation. 2-Methoxyestradiol exhibits potent apoptotic activity against rapidly growing tumor cells. It also possesses antiangiogenic activity through a direct apoptotic effect on endothelial cells. Other molecular mechanisms, including microtubule stabilization by inhibition of the colchicine-binding site, have been reported. The exact mechanism of action of 2-methoxyestradiol is still unclear, but it has been shown to be effective in preventing tumor growth in a variety of cell lines. 2-Methoxyestradiol also possesses cardioprotective activity by inhibiting vascular smooth muscle cell growth in arteries. It has a lower binding affinity for estrogen receptor alpha compared with that of estradiol, and its affinity for estrogen receptor beta is even lower than that of estrogen receptor alpha, thus it has minimal estrogenic activity. 2-Methoxyestradiol is distinct because of its inability to engage estrogen receptors as an agonist, and its unique antiproliferative and apoptotic activities are mediated independently of estrogen receptors alpha and beta. A phase I clinical trial of 2-methoxyestradiol 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1,000 mg/day in 15 patients with breast cancer showed significant reduction in bone pain and analgesic intake in some patients, with no significant adverse effects. Another phase I study of 2-methoxyestradiol 200-1,000 mg/day in combination with docetaxel 35 mg/m2/week for 4-6 weeks performed in 15 patients with advanced refractory metastatic breast cancer showed no serious drug-related adverse effects. A phase II randomized, double-blind trial of 2-methoxyestradiol 400 and 1,200 mg/day in 33 patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer showed that it was well tolerated and showed prostate specific antigen stabilizations and declines. We have started a phase I clinical trial to explore dosages greater than 1,000 mg/day.

Expression and cyclic variability of CYP3A4 and CYP3A7 isoforms in human endometrium and cervix during the menstrual cycle

CYP3A4, a cytochrome p450 (p450) isoform metabolizes estrogens, whereas CYP3A7, a fetal liver p450 isoform, is involved in estriol biosynthesis. The goal of this study was to evaluate expression of these enzymes in human uterine tissue during the proliferative and secretory phases of the menstrual cycle. Endometrium and cervix specimens were collected from women undergoing hysterectomy (n = 36). Total mRNA was extracted, quantified, and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was carried out using consensus primers for CYP3A. The 453 base pairs PCR product was hybridized with specific internal oligonucleotide probes for CYP3A4 or CYP3A7 end labeled with (32)P gamma-ATP. The relative intensity of hybridization was determined by autoradiography. Expression of CYP3A7 in endometrium was significantly greater (approximately 10-fold) in the proliferative phase compared with the secretory phase (p < 0.05). CYP3A4 expression was comparable between the two phases. Expression of both enzymes was minimal in the cervix. Fluorescence in situ hybridization of paraffinized sections indicated localized expression of CYP3A enzymes in the glandular epithelium as well as the stroma. Comparison of relative fluorescence intensity indicated differential expression of CYP3A7 in various phases of the menstrual cycle. These results suggest that CYP3A expression in the endometrium of premenopausal women may vary depending on the menstrual cycle phase.

Effects of o,p'-DDT on the 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-inducible CYP1A1 expression in murine Hepa-1c1c7 cells

Cultured mouse hepatoma Hepa-1c1c7 cells were treated with o,p'-DDT and/or 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) to assess the role of o,p'-DDT on CYP1A1 expression. o,p'-DDT alone did not affect CYP1A1-specific 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activity. In contrast, TCDD-inducible EROD activities were markedly reduced on concomitant treatment with TCDD and o,p'-DDT in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with ICI 182.780, an estrogen-receptor antagonist, did not affect the suppressive effects of o,p'-DDT on TCDD-inducible EROD activity. TCDD-inducible CYP1A1 mRNA levels were markedly suppressed on treatment with TCDD and o,p'-DDT, and this was consistent with their effects on EROD activity. A transient transfection assay using dioxin-response element (DRE)-linked luciferase and an electrophoretic mobility shift assay revealed that o,p'-DDT reduced the transformation of the aryl hydrocarbons (Ah) receptor to a form capable of specifically binding to the DRE sequence in the promoter region of the CYP1A1 gene. These results suggest that the downregulation of CYP1A1 gene expression by o,p'-DDT in Hepa-1c1c7 cells might be an antagonism of the DRE binding potential of the nuclear Ah receptor but is not mediated through the estradiol receptor.

The CYP3A4*1B polymorphism has no functional significance and is not associated with risk of breast or ovarian cancer

CYP3A4 is involved in the metabolism of endogenous steroids, and an allelic variant, CYP3A4*1B, consisting of an A to G polymorphism within the 5'-flanking region termed the nifedipine-specific response element (NFSE) has been associated with high grade and advanced stage of prostate cancers. Because steroid hormone exposure is known to influence breast and ovarian cancer risk, we conducted case-control studies to assess the relationship between CYP3A4*1B and risk of breast or ovarian cancer. CYP3A4 NFSE genotype was determined in 951 breast cancer cases and 500 controls frequency matched for age and 488 ovarian cancer cases and 276 controls of similar age distribution. Case-control analyses and comparisons of genotype distributions were conducted by unconditional logistic regression. In addition, the functional significance of the CYP3A4*1B polymorphism was assessed by analysis of CYP3A4-reporter gene constructs transiently transfected into liver-derived cell lines and primary cultures of well-differentiated rat hepatocytes. The GG genotype was rare in all groups (0-0.4%). There was no risk of cancer associated with the AG/GG genotypes combined, with an OR (95% CI) of 0.86 (0.54-1.33) for breast cancer (P = 0.5), and 1.51 (0.80-2.89) for ovarian cancer (P = 0.2). Analysis of CYP3A4-luciferase constructs showed that CYP3A4*1B did not consistently affect reporter gene activity. Our data suggest that the CYP3A4*1B polymorphism is not associated with risk of breast or ovarian cancer. In support of this negative finding, in-vitro functional studies indicate that NFSE genotype is not a critical factor in the transcriptional activity of the CYP3A4 5'-flanking region, and is thus unlikely to modulate CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of steroids.

Increased cytotoxicity of carbon tetrachloride in a human hepatoma cell line overexpressing cytochrome P450 2E1

Cytotoxic free radicals generated during the metabolism of carbon tetrachloride by cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) are thought to cause hepatotoxicity. Here, the cytotoxic effects of carbon tetrachloride in a liver cell line expressing CYP2E1 (HLE/2E1) are compared with those in the mother cell line (HLE). The effects of carbon tetrachloride on the gene expression of HSP70, a potential marker of oxidative stress, were also examined. The viability of HLE/2E1 cells after exposure to carbon tetrachloride was significantly decreased compared with that of HLE cells. Northern blot analysis revealed that the HSP70 mRNA level was significantly increased after carbon tetrachloride treatment in both cell lines, while the magnitude of its increase was much greater in HLE/2E1 cells than in HLE cells. These results suggest that the oxidative stress induced by CYP2E1 plays an important role in the increase in cytotoxicity of carbon tetrachloride in CYP2E1-overexpressing cells.

Regulation of cyp3a gene transcription by the pregnane x receptor

The pregnane X receptor (PXR) is a promiscuous nuclear receptor that has evolved to protect the body from toxic chemicals. PXR is activated by a structurally diverse collection of xenobiotics, including several widely used prescription drugs. Various lipophilic compounds produced by the body, such as bile acids and steroids, also activate PXR. PXR stimulates the transcription of cytochrome P450 3A monooxygenases and other genes involved in the detoxification and elimination of these potentially harmful chemicals. Assays that detect PXR activation have important implications for the design of future drugs in two respects. On the one hand, PXR activation assays can be used to determine whether candidate drugs are likely to induce CYP3A gene expression and interact with other medicines. On the other hand, PXR agonists may prove useful in the treatment of diseases in which toxic metabolites accumulate, such as cholestatic liver disease.

Inhibition of human hepatic cytochrome P450s and steroidogenic CYP17 by nonylphenol

Effect of nonylphenol on aminopyrine N-demethylase activity, a typical drug-metabolizing enzyme activity, by ten kinds of human hepatic cytochrome P450s (CYP) and on progesterone 17alpha-hydroxylase activity by steroidogenic CYP17 was investigated. When determined at 2 mM substrate concentration, nonylphenol (1 mM) most efficiently inhibited aminopyrine N-demethylation by CYP2C9 and CYP2C19, by 61% and 59%, respectively, followed by CYP2D6, CYP1A2, CYP2C18 and CYP2C8 (46-51%), whereas inhibition of the activities by other CYPs was less than 27%. Additionally, nonylphenol competitively inhibited diclofenac 4'-hydroxylation by CYP2C9 and S-mephenytoin 4'-hydroxylation by CYP2C19 with Ki values of 5.3 and 37 microM, respectively. Furthermore, nonylphenol exhibited a competitive inhibition of progesterone 17alpha-hydroxylase activity by CYP17 with Ki value of 62 microM. These results suggest that nonylphenol inhibits human hepatic CYPs, especially CYP2C9 and CYP2C19, and steroidogenic CYP17 activities.

Establishment of the transformants expressing human cytochrome P450 subtypes in HepG2, and their applications on drug metabolism and toxicology

Transformants with stable expression of a series of human cytochrome P450 (CYP) subtypes in the human hepatic cell line, HepG2, were established. These transformants are designated Hepc/1A1.4, Hepc/1A2.9, Hepc/2A6L.14, Hepc/2B6.68, Hepc/2C8.46, Hepc/2C9.1, Hepc/2C19.12, Hepc/2D6.39, Hepc/2E1.3-8 and Hepc/3A4.2-30, which stably expressed human CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1 and CYP3A4, respectively. The expression of the CYP subtypes in the transformants was confirmed by both determination of enzyme activities and the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) procedure. The apparent K(m) values of the expressed CYP subtypes for their specific substrates were close to those of human liver microsomes. In addition to their CYP activities, these transformants retained glucuronide- and sulfate-conjugating activities. Furthermore, the activities of CYP2C9, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 were inhibited by their specific inhibitors. The cytotoxicity of acetaminophen (APAP), cyclophosphamide (CPA) and benz[a]anthracene (BA) were analyzed by CYP-expressing transformants. The cytotoxicity depended on the expression of CYP subtypes and increased in a dose-dependent manner. These results show the metabolic activation of APAP, CPA and BA by the specific CYP subtypes expressed in the transformants and demonstrate the usefulness of these transformants for in vitro metabolic and toxicological studies in human liver.

Suppression of CYP1A1 expression by 4-nonylphenol in murine Hepa-1c1c7 cells

This study investigated the effects that 4-nonylphenol (NP) has on CYP1A1 expression in Hepa-1c1c7 cell cultures. NP alone did not affect CYP1A1-specific 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity. In contrast, the 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)-inducible EROD activities were markedly reduced upon concomitant treatment with TCDD and NP in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with tamoxifen, an anti-estrogen that acts through the estrogen receptor, did not affect the suppressive effects that NP has on TCDD-inducible EROD activity. The TCDD-inducible CYP1A1 mRNA levels were markedly suppressed upon concomitant treatment with TCDD and NP that is consistent with their effects on EROD activity. A transient transfection assay using dioxin-response element (DRE)-linked luciferase and an electrophoretic mobility shift assay revealed that NP reduced the transformation of the aryl hydrocarbon (Ah) receptor to a form capable of binding specifically to the DRE sequence of the CYP1A1 gene promoter. These results suggest that the down-regulation of CYP1A1 gene expression by NP in Hepa-1c1c7 cells might be an antagonism of the DRE-binding potential of the nuclear Ah receptor, but is not mediated through the estradiol receptor.

Role of DNA adducts in hormonal carcinogenesis

In this review, a mechanism of estrogen-induced cancer has been examined which features a dual role of estrogen as hormone and carcinogen. Evidence exists that estrogens are metabolically activated to 4-hydroxylated metabolites by a specific cytochrome P450 in tissues prone to estrogen-induced cancer. These metabolites and their semiquinone/quinone oxidation products may cause various types of DNA damage. Preliminary data also exist that estrogens induce various genetic mutations. Tumors may develop from cells carrying such mutations and responding to receptor-mediated proliferation signals.

Studies on the interactions between drugs and estrogen: analytical method for prediction system of gynecomastia induced by drugs on the inhibitory metabolism of estradiol using Escherichia coli coexpressing human CYP3A4 with human NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase

To establish a prediction system for drug-induced gynecomastia in clinical fields, a model reaction system was developed to explain numerically this side effect. The principle is based on the assumption that 50% inhibition concentration (IC(50)) of drugs on the in vitro metabolism of estradiol (E2) to its major product 2-hydroxyestradiol (2-OH-E2) can be regarded as the index for achieving this purpose. By using human cytochrome P450s coexpressed with human NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase in Escherichia coli as the enzyme, the reaction was examined. Among the nine enzymes (CYP1A1, 1A2, 2A6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A4) tested, CYP3A4 having a V(max)/K(m) (ml/min/nmol P450) value of 0.32 for production of 2-OH-E2 was shown to be the most suitable enzyme as the reagent. The inhibitory effects of ketoconazole, cyclosporin A, and cimetidine toward the 2-hydroxylation of E2 catalyzed by CYP3A4 were obtained, and their IC(50) values were 7 nM, 64 nM, and 290 microM, respectively. The present results suggest that IC(50) values thus obtained can be substituted as the prediction index for gynecomastia induced by drugs, considering the patients' individual information.

Establishment of a human hepatoma cell line, HLE/2E1, suitable for detection of p450 2E1-related cytotoxicity

By transfection of an expression vector of human cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) into a human hepatoma cell line (HLE), a new cell line (HLE/2E1) that stably expresses activity of CYP2E1 has been established. The HLE/2E1 cell line expressed a higher level of CYP2E1 messenger ribonucleic acid than did the mother HLE cell line. CYP2E1 enzyme activity determined by a p-nitrophenol oxidation assay was also higher in HLE/2E1 cells than in HLE cells. In addition, the enzyme activity of the HLE/2E1 cells was increased by ethanol treatment. Exposure to acetaminophen (APAP) or buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) caused a greater decrease in viability of the HLE/2E1 cells than that of the HLE cells, as determined by the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The cytotoxicity of APAP or BSO to HLE/2EI cells was inhibited by the addition of ethanol or vitamin E. However, the cytotoxicity of both APAP and BSO was enhanced by 24-h preincubation of HLE/2E1 cells with ethanol. These results show that this cell line provides a useful model for studying catalytic properties of CYP2E1 and cytotoxic mechanisms of chemicals metabolized by CYP2E1.

Expression of dioxin-related transactivating factors and target genes in human eutopic endometrial and endometriotic tissues

OBJECTIVE

Although an association between dioxin exposure and endometriosis has been proposed, the effects of this environmental toxin on human endometriosis are not known. To understand the potential underlying molecular mechanisms we studied the expressions of cytochrome P-450 genes (CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1 ), which are induced by dioxin, and the expressions of cytosolic receptor for dioxin, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and its nuclear translocator, aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein, in endometriotic and eutopic endometrial tissues.

STUDY DESIGN

Levels of transcripts of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein were determined by a quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Southern blot assay in total ribonucleic acid samples from endometriotic and eutopic endometrial tissues. Eutopic endometrial tissue samples (n = 33) and endometriotic tissue samples (n = 10) were obtained at the time of uterine curettage and laparoscopy from disease-free women and from patients with endometriosis. Portions of these eutopic endometrial and endometriotic tissues were obtained simultaneously from the same patients (n = 8 pairs of samples). Levels of transcripts of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein were determined in endometrial and endometriotic tissues during follicular and luteal phases of the cycle and in cultured endometriotic stromal cells treated with forskolin, phorbol diacetate, medroxyprogesterone acetate,and serum.

RESULTS

Transcripts of dioxin receptor, its nuclear translocator, and two dioxin-induced target genes (CYP1A2 and CYP1B1) were demonstrated during follicular and luteal phases of the cycle in both eutopic endometrial tissues and tissues affected by pelvic endometriosis, with no readily detectable differences between these tissues. On the other hand, levels of transcripts of another dioxin-induced gene, CYP1A1, were found to be strikingly higher in endometriotic tissues than in the eutopic endometrium. Mean levels in endometriotic tissues were 8.7 times those found in eutopic endometrium. Various hormonal treatments of endometriotic stromal cells did not significantly alter these levels.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated for the first time the expression of dioxin-related transcription factors aryl hydrocarbon receptor and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator protein and target genes CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1 in endometriotic tissues and stromal cells. Strikingly elevated CYP1A1 transcripts in endometriosis may give rise to significantly increased P-4501A1 enzyme activity and thus promote the development and growth of endometriosis by either activating procarcinogens or inducing the formation of catechol estrogens or both. In fact, the proposed link between dioxin exposure and endometriosis may be explained in part by the up-regulation of the CYP1A1 gene expression in endometriotic tissues.

Identification and functional characterization of a conserved, nuclear factor 1-like element in the proximal promoter region of CYP1A2 gene specifically expressed in the liver and olfactory mucosa

CYP1A2 is a major cytochrome P-450 isoform in the liver and the olfactory mucosa but is essentially not expressed in other tissues. A nuclear factor 1 (NF-1) -like element was identified in the proximal promoter region of rat, mouse, rabbit, and human CYP1A2 genes through data base analysis. In vitro DNase I footprinting with a -211 to +81 probe from the rat CYP1A2 gene and nuclear extracts from rat liver and olfactory mucosa revealed a single protected region corresponding to the NF-1-like element at -129 to -111. Protein binding to this NF-1-like element was tissue-selective and was confirmed by in vivo footprinting in native chromatin from rat liver. Multiple DNA-binding complexes were detected in gel-shift assays using the CYP1A2 NF-1-like element and nuclear extracts from liver and olfactory mucosa, all of which were supershifted in the presence of an anti-NF1 antibody. The NF-1-like element was essential for transcriptional activity of the CYP1A2 gene in an in vitro transcription assay using nuclear extracts from the two tissues. Thus, members of the NF-1 family of transcription factors may play an important role in the tissue-selective expression of the CYP1A2 gene in the liver and olfactory mucosa.

Is estradiol a genotoxic mutagenic carcinogen?

The natural hormone 17 beta-estradiol (E2) induces tumors in various organs of rats, mice, and hamsters. In humans, slightly elevated circulating estrogen levels caused either by increased endogenous hormone production or by therapeutic doses of estrogen medications increase breast or uterine cancer risk. Several epigenetic mechanisms of tumor induction by this hormone have been proposed based on its lack of mutagenic activity in bacterial and mammalian cell test systems. More recent evidence supports a dual role of estrogen in carcinogenesis as a hormone stimulating cell proliferation and as a procarcinogen inducing genetic damage. Tumors may be initiated by metabolic conversion of E2 to 4-hydroxyestradiol catalyzed by a specific 4-hydroxylase (CYP1B1) and by further activation of this catechol to reactive semiquinone/quinone intermediates. Several types of direct and indirect free radical-mediated DNA damage are induced by E2, 4-hydroxyestradiol, or its corresponding quinone in cell-free systems, in cells in culture, and/or in vivo. E2 also induces various chromosomal and genetic lesions including aneuploidy, chromosomal aberrations, gene amplification, and microsatellite instability in cells in culture and/or in vivo and gene mutations in several cell test systems. These data suggest that E2 is a weak carcinogen and weak mutagen capable of inducing genetic lesions with low frequency. Tumors may develop by hormone receptor-mediated proliferation of such damaged cells.

Health effects of vegetables and fruit: assessing mechanisms of action in human experimental studies

Epidemiologic data support the association between high intake of vegetables and fruits and low risk of chronic disease. There are several biologically plausible reasons why consumption of vegetables and fruit might slow or prevent the onset of chronic diseases. Vegetables and fruit are rich sources of a variety of nutrients, including vitamins, trace minerals, and dietary fiber, and many other classes of biologically active compounds. These phytochemicals can have complementary and overlapping mechanisms of action, including modulation of detoxification enzymes, stimulation of the immune system, reduction of platelet aggregation, modulation of cholesterol synthesis and hormone metabolism, reduction of blood pressure, and antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiviral effects. Although these effects have been examined primarily in animal and cell-culture models, experimental dietary studies in humans have also shown the capacity of vegetables and fruit and their constituents to modulate some of these potential disease-preventive mechanisms. The human studies have relied on intermediate endpoints related to disease risk. Design methodologies used include multiple-arm trials, randomized crossover studies, and more compromised designs such as nonrandomized crossovers and pre- and posttreatment analyses. Length of treatment ranged from a single dose to years depending on the mechanism of interest. Stringency of dietary control varied from addition of supplements to a habitual diet to provision of all food for the duration of a treatment. Rigorously conducted experimental dietary studies in humans are an important link between population- and laboratory-based research.

Genetic epidemiology of environmental toxicity and cancer susceptibility: human allelic polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing enzyme genes, their functional importance, and nomenclature issues

Pharmacogenetics is the study of idiosyncratic drug responses that have an hereditary basis and usually reflect differences in drug-metabolizing enzymes (DMEs) and the receptors that control DME levels. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of recent findings concerning more than a dozen clinically important polymorphisms and to emphasize the need to standardize the nomenclature of these alleles in each polymorphism, as quickly as possible. This nomenclature system should be consistent with the Human Gene Nomenclature Guidelines. Because DMEs have existed before divergence of prokaryotes and eukaryotes more than 2 billion years ago, it is clear that DME genes first must have evolved for critical life functions and that, more recently in animals, DME genes expanded to include the role of detoxification of dietary products, evolving plant metabolites, and, of course, pharmaceutical drugs. Many human DME polymorphisms are relevant to clinical problems in that they represent the basis of risk factors in the development of cancer, toxicity, and other diseases associated with drug, chemical, or dietary exposure. The study of the relationship among human genetic polymorphisms, cancer susceptibility, toxicity, and environmental exposure is a new and exciting area of research--which will undoubtedly have increasingly important implications for risk assessment and the prevention, early diagnosis, and intervention of clinical disease.

Contribution of human hepatic cytochrome P450s and steroidogenic CYP17 to the N-demethylation of aminopyrine

1. Aminopyrine N-demethylase activity was determined for 11 forms of human hepatic cytochrome P450s (P450s) expressed in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and for human steroidogenic CYP17 expressed in Escherichia coli. 2. Among the hepatic P450s, the N-demethylation of aminopyrine was catalysed most efficiently by CYP2C19, followed by CYP2C8, 2D6, 2C18 and 1A2, whereas the activity with CYP2E1 was negligible. The kinetics of the N-demethylation process by CYP1A2, 2C8, 2C19 and 2D6 were studied by fitting to Michaelis-Menten kinetics by Lineweaver-Burk plots. CYP2C19 exhibited the highest affinity and a high capacity for the aminopyrine N-demethylation. CYP2C8 showed the highest Vmax, followed by CYP2C19, 2D6 and 1A2, whereas the Km for CYP2C8, 2D6 and 1A2 were 10-17 times higher than that for CYP2C19. Accordingly, the Vmax/Km for CYP2C19 was more than nine times higher than that of other P450s. 3. Human steroidogenic CYP17 also catalysed aminopyrine N-demethylation and the activity was comparable with that for CYP3A4 which is a dominant P450 in human liver. The activity was increased 1.5-fold by the addition of cytochrome b5, whereas the activity was not affected by the addition of Mg2+. 4. These results suggest that several human hepatic P450s, especially CYP2C19, and steroidogenic CYP17 exhibit aminopyrine N-demethylase activity.