Induction Of HO-1 Gene Expression Research Articles

Nrf2 activation by Morinda citrifolia L. (Noni) fruit juices

Objective: The objective of the study was to identify Nrf2 activators from differently treated Morinda citrifolia L. fruit juices and their cytotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Noni fruit juices were prepared by different treatments: unripe (T1), ripe (T2), purchased (T3), and Noni juices fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum (T4). These extracts were tested for Nrf2 activation and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) inhibition activities. These active extracts were further studied for their nuclear Nrf2 translocation and induction of HO-1 protein expression. Finally, the active extracts were purified using open column chromatography and RP-high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques through bioassay-guided separation. Moreover, all Noni juice samples were tested for cytotoxicity using mammalian cell-based methylthiazoltetrazolium (MTT) assay. Results: Only purchased (T3) and ripe Noni fruit juices fermented with LP at 22°C (T4–22) showed strongest Nrf2 activation and NF-κB inhibitory activity. Further, these two extracts enhanced the nuclear accumulation of Nrf2 after 2 h and also promoted Nrf2 and HO-1 nuclear translocation. Induction of HO-1 gene expression of Hep G2/ARE cells treated with T3 confirmed that it is a potent inducer of the Nrf2 target gene HO-1. Bioassay-guided separation resulted in subfractions with high Nrf2 activity. The strongest Nrf2 active subfraction led to the identification of scopoletin as an Nrf2 activator. Moreover, none of the tested samples showed any cytotoxicity for the MTT assay. Conclusions: The presence of potential Nrf2 activators in the Noni fruit juices that were nontoxic in our MTT assay could mitigate the production of harmful reactive species in the biological systems, and thereby, could helpful in alleviating and prevention of chronic diseases.

Alk3, a BMP Type I Receptor Is Required for the Induction of Hepatic Hepcidin Gene Expression by Interleukin-6

Abstract 686 Introduction:Anemia of chronic disease (ACD), the second most prevalent form of anemia, is commonly associated with chronic inflammatory, infectious, or neoplastic conditions. ACD is characterized by high hepcidin levels that decrease serum iron levels by inducing degradation of the iron exporter ferroportin. In contrast, a relative deficiency of hepcidin leads to ferroportin overexpression and iron overload. Hepcidin is transcriptionally regulated by interleukin-6 (IL-6) and bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signaling. Binding of BMP ligands to type II and type I BMP receptors induces the type II receptor to phosphorylate and activate one of four type I receptors. We sought to identify the type I BMP receptor that participates in the ability of IL-6 to induce hepatic hepcidin gene expression. Methods:The four type I BMP receptors are Alk1, Alk2, Alk3, and Alk6. Alk1 is predominantly expressed in the endothelium. Alk6 is expressed at low levels in murine liver. In contrast, Alk2 and Alk3 are abundantly expressed in hepatocytes. Global deficiency of Alk2 or Alk3 is embryonic lethal. To selectively delete Alk2 or Alk3 in hepatocytes, we studied mice homozygous for Alk2 or Alk3 sequences flanked by loxP sites (Alk2fl/fl and Alk3fl/fl, respectively) that also carried a transgene specifying Cre recombinase under the control of the albumin gene promoter (Alb-Cre). Eight- to 12-week-old male mice (Alk2fl/fl, Alk2fl/fl; Alb-Cre, Alk3fl/fl, Alk3fl/fl; Alb-Cre) on a standard, iron-replete diet were injected via the tail vein with an adenovirus specifying IL-6 (Ad.IL-6) or an adenovirus specifying green fluorescent protein (GFP; Ad.GFP), as a control (1010 particles per ml for both). Seventy-two hours later, mice were euthanized, and blood was obtained for measurement of serum iron levels and transferrin saturations. Livers were harvested, and RNA was extracted. Hepatic levels of mRNAs encoding Alk2, Alk3, hepcidin, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1, a transcriptional target of IL-6), and Id-1 (a BMP gene target) were measured by qRT-PCR. Hepatic STAT3 phosphorylation (a marker of IL-6 receptor activation) was measured using immunoblot techniques. Results:Liver-specific deletion of Alk2 or Alk3 caused mild and severe iron overload, respectively. Injection of Ad.IL-6, but not Ad.GFP, decreased serum iron levels and transferrin saturations in Alk2fl/fl, Alk2fl/fl; Alb-Cre, and Alk3fl/fl mice. In contrast, infection of Alk3fl/fl; Alb-Cre mice with Ad.IL-6 did not alter serum iron levels and only modestly reduced transferrin saturations. Infection with Ad.IL-6 induced of hepatic hepcidin gene expression in Alk2fl/fl, Alk2fl/fl; Alb-Cre, and Alk3fl/fl mice. Hepatic hepcidin mRNA levels were markedly reduced in Ad.GFP-infected Alk3fl/fl; Alb-Cre mice, and infection with Ad.IL-6 failed to increase hepcidin mRNA levels in this genotype. Ad.IL-6 infection induced hepatic Id-1 mRNA levels in Alk2fl/fl, Alk2fl/fl; Alb-Cre, and Alk3fl/fl mice, but not in Alk3fl/fl; Alb-Cre mice. Infection with Ad.IL-6 induced hepatic STAT-3 phosphorylation and HO-1 gene expression in all 4 genotypes of mice. Conclusions:Taken together, these results demonstrate that the response to IL-6, as reflected by STAT-3 phosphorylation and induction of HO-1 gene expression, does not require Alk2 or Alk3. In contrast, BMP signaling, predominantly via Alk3, is essential for the induction of hepcidin gene expression by IL-6. These results suggest that selective inhibition of Alk3 may represent a novel therapeutic approach to the treatment of ACD. Disclosures:Peterson:Massachusetts General Hospital: Patents & Royalties, The Massachusetts General Hospital has filed patents related to the use of small molecule inhibitors of BMP signaling to modulate iron metabolism, and PBY, RTP and KDB may be eligible to receive royalties. Yu:Massachusetts General Hospital: Patents & Royalties, The Massachusetts General Hospital has filed patents related to the use of small molecule inhibitors of BMP signaling to modulate iron metabolism, and PBY, RTP and KDB may be eligible to receive royalties. Bloch:Massachusetts General Hospital: Patents & Royalties, The Massachusetts General Hospital has filed patents related to the use of small molecule inhibitors of BMP signaling to modulate iron metabolism, and PBY, RTP and KDB may be eligible to receive royalties.

Bruton’s Tyrosine Kinase Is Required for TLR-Dependent Heme Oxygenase-1 Gene Activation via Nrf2 in Macrophages

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 is the inducible isoform of the rate-limiting enzyme of heme degradation and provides cytoprotection against oxidative stress by its products carbon monoxide and biliverdin. More recently, HO-1 has also been shown to exert immunomodulatory functions via cell type-specific anti-inflammatory effects in myeloid/macrophage cells. In the current study, it is demonstrated that Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk), the gene of which is mutated in the human immunodeficiency X-linked agammaglobulinemia, is involved in the upregulation of HO-1 gene expression via TLR signaling in macrophages. The specific Btk inhibitor LFM-A13 blocked HO-1 induction by the classical TLR4 ligand LPS in cell cultures of RAW264.7 monocytic cells and primary mouse alveolar macrophages. Moreover, upregulation of HO-1 gene expression was abrogated in LPS-stimulated alveolar macrophages from Btk(-/-) mice. Transfection studies with luciferase reporter gene constructs demonstrated that LPS-dependent induction of HO-1 promoter activity was attenuated by pharmacological Btk inhibition and by an overexpressed dominant-negative mutant of Btk. This induction was mediated by the transcription factor Nrf2, which is a master regulator of the antioxidant cellular defense. Accordingly, nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in LPS-treated macrophages was reduced by Btk inhibition. The generation of reactive oxygen species, but not that of NO, was involved in this regulatory pathway. Btk-dependent induction of HO-1 gene expression was also observed upon macrophage stimulation with ligands of TLR2, TLR6, TLR7, and TLR9, suggesting that Btk is required for HO-1 gene activation by major TLR pathways.

Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase and Nrf2 mediate TLR-induced activation of Heme oxygenase-1 gene expression in macrophages (116.16)

Abstract The inducible isoform of heme oxygenase (HO)-1, is involved in heme degradation producing CO and biliverdin, mediating cytoprotection against oxidative stress. Recently, HO-1 has been shown to evoke potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in macrophages. Here we demonstrate that Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk), the gene of which is mutated in human immunodeficiency X-linked agammaglobulinemia, is involved in toll-like receptor (TLR)-induced gene expression of HO-1 in macrophages. The Btk inhibitor LFM-A13 blocked the induction of HO-1 by LPS (TLR4 ligand) in RAW264.7 macrophages and primary mouse alveolar macrophages. Furthermore, LPS-stimulated up-regulation of HO-1 gene expression was abrogated in alveolar macrophages from Btk-/- mice. In addition, inhibition of Btk with LFM-A13 attenuated the LPS-induced luciferase activity of the HO-1 promoter in transfection studies in RAW264.7 cells. This effect was mediated by the transcription factor Nrf2, which is a master regulator of the cellular antioxidant defense. Immunofluorescence studies revealed that the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in LPS-treated macrophages was reduced by Btk inhibition. Moreover, the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), but not that of NO, was involved in this regulatory pathway. Btk-dependent induction of HO-1 gene expression via Nrf2 was also observed upon stimulation by TLR7 and TLR9 ligands, suggesting Btk to be generally involved in TLR-mediated HO-1 gene activation.

Cadmium-induced heme oxygenase-1 gene expression is associated with the depletion of glutathione in the roots of Medicago sativa

Following previous findings that cadmium (Cd) induces heme oxygenase-1 (HO1) gene expression in alfalfa seedling roots, we now show that the decreased glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid (AsA) contents, induction of HO-1 gene expression and its protein level by Cd was mimicked by a GSH depletor diethylmaleate (DEM). Meanwhile, above Cd- or DEM-induced decreased GSH content followed by HO-1 up-regulation could be strengthened or reversed differentially by the application of a selective inhibitor of GSH biosynthesis L: -buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO), or exogenous GSH and AsA, respectively. The antioxidative behavior of HO-1 induction was further confirmed by histochemical staining for the detection of loss of membrane integrity in a short period of treatment time. Additionally, the induction of HO-1 transcript was inhibited by the transcriptional inhibitor actinomycin D (ActD) or protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (CX, especially). In contrast, the level of HO-2 transcript did not change upon various treatments. Together, above results suggested that Cd-induced up-regulation of HO-1 gene expression is associated with GSH depletion, which is at least existing transcriptional regulation level, thus leading to enhanced antioxidative capability transiently.

An atypical NF-kappa B-regulated pathway mediates phorbol ester-dependent Heme oxygenase-1 gene activation in monocytes

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 is the rate-limiting enzyme of heme degradation. More recently, HO-1 has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions, which have been demonstrated in HO-1 knockout mice models and a human case of HO-1 genetic deficiency. Moreover, targeted induction of HO-1 has been shown to have therapeutic effects in various disease models. Here, it is reported that the HO-1 gene is transcriptionally induced by the phorbol ester phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), which is a prototypical activator of PKC, in various monocytic cells. The PMA-dependent induction of HO-1 has a different time-dependent pattern of induction from that of lipopolysaccharide-dependent HO-1 induction in these cells. Activation of HO-1 by PMA was mediated via a newly identified kB element of the proximal rat HO-1 gene promoter region (-284 to -275). This HO-kB element was a nuclear target for the NF-kB subunit p65/RelA as determined by nuclear binding assays and transfection experiments with luciferase reporter gene constructs in RAW264.7 monocytes. Moreover, PMA-dependent induction of endogenous HO-1 gene expression and promoter activity was abrogated in embryonic fibroblasts from p65-/- mice. PMA-dependent HO-1 gene activation was reduced by an overexpressed dominant negative mutant of IkB, but not by dominant negative IkB kinase-2 (IKK2) suggesting that the classical NF-kB pathway was not involved in this regulation. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine and inhibitors of p38 MAPK or serine/threonine kinase CK2 blocked PMA-dependent HO-1 gene activation. Finally, it is demonstrated by luciferase assays with a Gal4-CHOP fusion protein that activation of p38 MAPK by PMA was independent of CK2. Taken together, induction of HO-1 gene expression by PMA is regulated via an IKK-independent atypical NF-kB pathway that is mediated via activation of p38 MAPK and CK2.

An Atypical NF-κB-Regulated Pathway Mediates Phorbol Ester-Dependent Heme Oxygenase-1 Gene Activation in Monocytes

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 catalyzes the rate-limiting step of heme degradation and plays an important anti-inflammatory role via its enzymatic products carbon monoxide and biliverdin. In this study it is reported that the HO-1 gene is transcriptionally induced by the phorbol ester PMA in cell cultures of monocytic cells with a regulatory pattern that is different from that of LPS-dependent HO-1 induction in these cells. Activation of HO-1 by PMA was mediated via a newly identified kappaB element of the proximal rat HO-1 gene promoter region (-284 to -275). This HO-kappaB element was a nuclear target for the NF-kappaB subunit p65/RelA as determined by nuclear binding assays and transfection experiments with luciferase reporter gene constructs in RAW264.7 monocytes. Moreover, PMA-dependent induction of endogenous HO-1 gene expression and promoter activity was abrogated in embryonic fibroblasts from p65(-/-) mice. PMA-dependent HO-1 gene activation was reduced by an overexpressed dominant negative mutant of IkappaBalpha, but not by dominant negative IkappaB kinase-2, suggesting that the classical NF-kappaB pathway was not involved in this regulation. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine and inhibitors of p38 MAPK or serine/threonine kinase CK2 blocked PMA-dependent HO-1 gene activation. Finally, it is demonstrated by luciferase assays with a Gal4-CHOP fusion protein that the activation of p38 MAPK by PMA was independent of CK2. Taken together, induction of HO-1 gene expression by PMA is regulated via an IkappaB kinase-independent, atypical NF-kappaB pathway that is mediated via the activation of p38 MAPK and CK2.

ORIGINAL RESEARCH—BASIC SCIENCE: Effect of Hemin and Carbon Monoxide Releasing Molecule (CORM-3) on cGMP in Rat Penile Tissue

ABSTRACT Introduction Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels can be regulated by heme oxygenase-1 and 2 (HO-1 and HO-2)-derived carbon monoxide (CO). Aims Assessment of the effect of upregulating CO in rat corpora cavernosa (CC) on cavernous cGMP. Methods Three experimental groups were studied: first group (N=40), short-term HO induction over 2 weeks by injection of intraperitoneal increasing doses of hemin; the second group (N=40) was subjected to intracavernosal injection of CO donor, CORM-3, or its inactive form (iCORM-3) over 2 weeks; the third group (N=60) was subdivided into three subgroups: the first one received a combined hemin and CORM-3, the second one received hemin and its inhibitor stannus mesoporphyrin (SnMP), and third one received a combined hemin, CORM-3, and SnMP. Main Outcome Measures In CC, HO-1 and HO-2 gene expression, Northern blot and Western blot, cGMP levels, and HO enzyme activity. Results In the first group, maximum induction of HO-1 gene expression, HO enzyme activity, and cGMP occurred with 4-mg hemin dose with a successive increase over 2 weeks. In the second group, CORM-3 increased cGMP by twofold compared with iCORM-3, and also increased HO-1 protein. In the third group, SnMP inhibited the enhancing effect of CORM-3 and HO on erectile signaling molecules; i.e., HO-1 gene, enzyme activity, and cGMP. Conclusions CORM-3- or hemin-mediated CO release could increase cavernous tissue cGMP.

Reactive oxygen species-dependent HSP90 protein cleavage participates in arsenical As + 3 - and MMA + 3 -induced apoptosis through inhibition of telomerase activity via JNK activation

The effects of six arsenic compounds including As + 3 , MMA + 3 , DMA + 3 , As + 5 , MMA + 5 , and DMA + 5 on the viability of NIH3T3 cells were examined. As + 3 and MMA + 3 , but not the others, exhibited significant cytotoxic effects in NIH3T3 cells through apoptosis induction. The apoptotic events such as DNA fragmentation and chromosome condensation induced by As + 3 and MMA + 3 were prevented by the addition of NAC and CAT, and induction of HO-1 gene expression in accordance with cleavage of the HSP90 protein, and suppression of telomerase activity were observed in NIH3T3 cells under As + 3 and MMA + 3 treatments. An increase in the intracellular peroxide level was examined in As + 3 - and MMA + 3 -treated NIH3T3 cells, and As + 3 - and MMA + 3 -induced apoptotic events were blocked by NAC, CAT, and DPI addition. HSP90 inhibitors, GA and RD, significantly attenuated the telomerase activity in NIH3T3 cells with an enhancement of As + 3 - and MMA + 3 -induced cytotoxicity. Suppression of JNKs significantly inhibited As + 3 - and MMA + 3 -induced apoptosis by blocking HSP90 protein cleavage and telomerase reduction in NIH3T3 cells. Furthermore, Hb, SnPP, and dexferosamine showed no effect against As + 3 - and MMA + 3 -induced apoptosis, and overexpression of HO-1 protein or inhibition of HO-1 protein expression did not affect the apoptosis induced by As + 3 or MMA + 3 . These data provide the first evidence to indicate that apoptosis induced by As + 3 and MMA + 3 is mediated by an ROS-dependent degradation of HSP90 protein and reduction of telomerase via JNK activation, and HO-1 induction might not be involved.

A New Road to Induce Heme Oxygenase-1 Expression by Carbon Monoxide

See related article, pages 919–927 Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the metabolic conversion of heme to bilirubin, iron, and carbon monoxide (CO).1 Ample literature has demonstrated that exogenous or endogenously-produced CO possesses signaling properties affecting numerous critical cellular processes including inflammation, cellular proliferation, and apoptotic cell death.1,2 CO and the bile pigments biliverdin and bilirubin play important physiological roles in the circulation. The production of CO in vascular cells modulates blood flow and blood fluidity by regulating vasomotor tone and inhibiting smooth muscle cell proliferation and platelet aggregation. CO also maintains vessel wall integrity by directly blocking apoptosis and inhibiting the release of proinflammatory cytokines from the vessel wall. These effects of CO are mediated via multiple pathways, including activation of soluble guanylate cyclase, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and potassium channels.1,2 Induction of HO-1 gene expression and the subsequent release of CO and bile pigments are observed in numerous vascular disorders providing an adaptive response to preserve homeostasis at sites of vascular injury. Hence, the formation of CO and bile pigments in vascular cells may function as an important vasoprotective system.1,2 Thus far, several transcriptional factors (TF) have been implicated in HO-1 gene expression. Among these TFs, the heat-shock, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), nuclear factor–erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and activator protein–1 families are the most important regulators of cellular stress responses. Nrf2 is activated by various xenobiotics and oxidants and regulates genes encoding proteins …

Baicalein inhibition of oxidative-stress-induced apoptosis via modulation of ERKs activation and induction of HO-1 gene expression in rat glioma cells C6

In the present study, we examined the protective mechanism of baicalein (BE) and its glycoside, baicalin (BI), on hydrogen-peroxide (H(2)O(2))-induced cell death in rat glioma C6 cells. Results of the MTT assay, LDH release assay, and morphological observation showed that H(2)O(2) addition reduced the viability of C6 cells, and this was prevented by the addition of BE but not BI. Incubation of C6 cells with BE significantly decreased the intracellular peroxide level induced by H(2)O(2) according to flow cytometric analysis using DCHF-DA as a fluorescent substrate. Suppression of H(2)O(2)-induced apoptotic events including DNA ladders, hypodiploid cells, and activation of caspases 3, 8, and, 9 by BE but not BI was identified in C6 cells. The cytotoxicity and phosphorylation of ERK proteins induced by H(2)O(2) were blocked by the ERK inhibitor PD98059. Catalase addition prevented H(2)O(2)-induced ROS production, ERKs protein phosphorylation, and cell death, and BE dose-dependently inhibited H(2)O(2)-induced ERK protein phosphorylation in C6 cells. These data suggest that ROS-scavenging activity is involved in BE prevention of H(2)O(2)-induced cell death via blocking ERKs activation. Additionally, BE but not BI induced heat shock protein 32 (HSP32; HO-1) protein expression in both time- and dose-dependent manners, but not heme oxygenase 2 (HO-2), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), or heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) protein expression. In the absence of H(2)O(2), BE induces ERKs protein phosphorylation, and HO-1 protein expression induced by BE was blocked by the addition of cycloheximide, actinomycin D, and the ERK inhibitor PD98059. The addition of the HO inhibitor ZnPP inhibited the protective effect of BE against H(2)O(2)-induced cytotoxicity in C6 cells according to the MTT assay and apoptotic morphology under microscopic observation, accompanied by blocking the ROS-scavenging activity of BE in C6 cells. However, BE treatment was unable to protect C6 cells from C2-ceramide-induced cell death. These data indicate that BE possesses abilities to inhibit ROS-mediated cytotoxic effects through modulation of ERKs activation and induction of HO-1 protein expression. The role of HO-1 in ROS-scavenging activity of BE is proposed.

Molecular Basis of Heme Oxygenase-1 Induction: Implications for Chemoprevention and Chemoprotection

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1, involved in the heme degradation process, is an important antioxidant enzyme. The induction of HO-1 gene expression, in response to diverse oxidative stimuli, represents a critical event in adaptive cellular response. Experimental models of various diseases, including acute inflammation, atherosclerosis, degenerative diseases, and carcinogenesis, have demonstrated that the induction of HO-1 can prevent or mitigate the symptoms associated with these ailments. Recent progress in our understanding of cellular signaling networks as critical modulators of gene transcription sheds light on the molecular basis of HO-1 gene expression. A panel of redox-sensitive transcription factors such as activator protein-1, nuclear factor- kappaB, and nuclear factor E2-related factor-2, and some of the upstream kinases have been identified as regulators of HO-1 gene induction. The scope of this review is limited to focus on molecular mechanisms underlying HO-1 expression and the significance of targeted induction of HO-1 as a strategy to achieve chemoprevention and chemoprotection.

Heme Oxygenase-1 Gene Activation by the NAD(P)H Oxidase Inhibitor 4-(2-Aminoethyl) Benzenesulfonyl Fluoride via a Protein Kinase B, p38-dependent Signaling Pathway in Monocytes

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 is the inducible isoform of the rate-limiting enzyme of heme degradation and modulates the inflammatory immune response. Because HO-1 is up-regulated by NAD(P)H oxidase activators such as lipopolysaccharide and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate in monocytic cells, we investigated the gene regulation of HO-1 by the chemical NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor 4-(2-aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride (AEBSF). Unexpectedly, AEBSF induced endogenous gene expression and promoter activity of HO-1 in cell cultures of human and mouse monocytes. Inhibition of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PKB) pathway by pharmacological inhibitors and cotransfection of an expression vector for a dominant negative mutant of PKB reduced the AEBSF-dependent induction of HO-1 gene transcription. Accordingly, overexpressed constitutively active PKB markedly up-regulated HO-1 promoter activity. AEBSF activated the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) JNK and p38. Inhibition of p38alpha and p38beta, but not that of JNK or p38gamma and p38delta, prevented the induction of HO-1 gene expression by AEBSF. p38 was stimulated by AEBSF in a PKB-dependent manner as demonstrated by a luciferase assay with a Gal4-CHOP fusion protein. Finally, AEBSF- and PKB-dependent induction of HO-1 promoter activity was reduced by simultaneous mutation of an E-box motif (-47/-42) and a cAMP response element/AP-1 element (-664/-657) of the proximal HO-1 gene promoter. Overexpression of the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor USF2 and coactivator p300 enhanced the AEBSF-dependent response of the HO-1 promoter. The data suggest that the transcriptional induction of HO-1 gene expression by AEBSF is mediated via activation of a PKB, p38 MAPK signaling pathway.

Quercetin, but not rutin and quercitrin, prevention of H 2O 2-induced apoptosis via anti-oxidant activity and heme oxygenase 1 gene expression in macrophages

In the present study, we examine the protective mechanism of quercetin (QE) on oxidative stress-induced cytotoxic effect in RAW264.7 macrophages. Results of Western blotting show that QE but not its glycoside rutin (RUT) and quicitrin-induced HO-1 protein expression in a time- and dose-dependent manner, and HO-1 protein induced by QE was blocked by an addition of cycloheximide or actinomycin D. Induction of HO-1 gene expression by QE was accompanied by inducing ERKs, but not JNKs or p38, proteins phosphorylation. Addition of PD98059, but not SB203580 or SP600125, significantly attenuates QE-induced HO-1 protein and mRNA expression associated with blocking the expression of phosphorylated ERKs proteins. H 2O 2 addition reduces the viability of cells by MTT assay, and appearance of DNA ladders, hypodiploid cells, and an increase in intracellular peroxide level was detected. Addition of QE, but not QI or RUT, significantly reduced the cytotoxic effect induced by H 2O 2 associated with blocking the production of intracellular peroxide, DNA ladders, and hypodiploid cells. QE protection of cells from H 2O 2-induced apoptosis was significantly suppressed by adding HO inhibitor SnPP or ERKs inhibitor PD98059. Additionally, QE protects cells from H 2O 2-induced a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential and a release of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol by DiOC6 and Western blotting assay, respectively. Activation of apoptotic proteins including the caspase 3, caspase 9, PARP, D4-GDI proteins was identified in H 2O 2-treated cells by Western blotting and enzyme activity assay, and that was significantly blocked by an addition of QE, but not RUT and QI. Furthermore, HO-1 catalytic metabolites carbon monoxide (CO), but not Fe 2+, Fe 3+, biliverdin or bilirubin, performed protective effect on cells from H 2O 2-induced cell death with an increase in HO-1 protein expression and ERKs protein phosphorylation. These data suggest that induction of HO-1 protein may participate in the protective mechanism of QE on oxidative stress (H 2O 2)-induced apoptosis, and reduction of intracellular ROS production and mitochondria dysfunction with blocking apoptotic events were involved. Differential anti-apoptotic effect between QE and its glycosides RUT and QI via distinct HO-1 protein induction was also delineated.

Role of NF-kappaB and p38 MAP kinase signaling pathways in the lipopolysaccharide-dependent activation of heme oxygenase-1 gene expression.

Heme oxygenase (HO)-1 is the inducible isoform of the rate-limiting enzyme of heme degradation, which is up-regulated by a host of stress stimuli. The bacterial cell membrane component lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a prototypical activator of monocytic cells. Here, it is shown that LPS induced the endogenous HO-1 gene expression in RAW264.7 monocytic cells. To investigate the molecular mechanisms of HO-1 gene induction by LPS, we performed transfection experiments with reporter gene constructs containing sequences of the proximal rat HO-1 gene promoter. Deletion and mutation analysis indicated that a cyclic AMP response element/activator protein-1 site (-664/-657), but not an E-box motif (-47/-42), played a major role for LPS-dependent HO-1 gene induction. Up-regulation of HO-1 promoter activity by LPS was decreased by pharmacological nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) inhibitors and by cotransfected expression vectors with dominant negative isoforms of NF-kappaB-inducing kinase, inhibitor of NF-kappaB (IkappaB) kinase beta, and IkappaBalpha. Moreover, the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor SB203580 and overexpressed dominant negative p38beta decreased, whereas dominant negative p38delta increased, LPS-dependent induction of HO-1 gene expression. The results suggest that the NF-kappaB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways mediate the LPS-dependent induction of HO-1 gene expression via DNA sequences of the proximal promoter region.

Induction of heme oxygenase-1 is involved in anti-proliferative effects of paclitaxel on rat vascular smooth muscle cells

In this study, we evaluated the possibility that the anti-proliferative effects of paclitaxel on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of the rat might be due to the induction of HO-1 gene expression. Treatment of the cells with paclitaxel resulted in marked time- and dose-dependent inductions of HO-1 mRNA, followed by corresponding increases in HO-1 protein expression and HO enzymatic activities. Furthermore, paclitaxel rapidly activated the JNK, ERK, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. A specific inhibitor of JNK, SP600125, abolished paclitaxel-induced HO-1 mRNA expression, whereas PD98059, a specific inhibitor of ERK, and SB203580, a specific inhibitor of p38, had no significant effect. Finally, the suppression of platelet-derived growth factor induced VSMC proliferation was abolished by the HO inhibitor, ZnPP, as well as by the CO scavenger, hemoglobin. These results demonstrated that paclitaxel induces the expression of HO-1 via the JNK pathway in VSMC and that HO-1 expression might be responsible for the anti-proliferative effect of paclitaxel on VSMC.

Carbon monoxide and bile pigments: surprising mediators of vascular function.

Heme oxygenase (HO) catalyzes the degradation of heme to CO, iron, and biliverdin. Biliverdin is subsequently metabolized to bilirubin by the enzyme biliverdin reductase. Although long considered irrelevant byproducts of heme catabolism, recent studies indicate that CO and the bile pigments biliverdin and bilirubin may play an important physiological role in the circulation. The release of CO by vascular cells may modulate blood flow and blood fluidity by inhibiting vasomotor tone, smooth muscle cell proliferation, and platelet aggregation. CO may also maintain the integrity of the vessel wall by directly blocking vascular cell apoptosis and by inhibiting the release of pro-apoptotic inflammatory cytokines from the vessel wall. These effects of CO are mediated via multiple pathways, including activation of soluble guanylate cyclase, potassium channels, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, or inhibition of cytochrome P450. In addition, the release of bile pigments may serve to sustain vascular homeostasis by protecting vascular cells from oxidative stress and by inhibiting the adhesion and infiltration of leukocytes into the vessel wall. Induction of HO-1 gene expression and the subsequent release of CO and bile pigments are observed in numerous vascular disorders and may provide an important adaptive mechanism to preserve homeostasis at sites of vascular injury. Thus, the HO-catalyzed formation of CO and bile pigments by vascular cells may function as a critical endogenous vasoprotective system. Moreover, pharmacological or genetic approaches targeting HO-1 to the vessel wall may represent a novel therapeutic approach in treating vascular disease.

Induction of heme oxygenase-1 by phenylarsine oxide. Studies in cultured primary liver cells.

Heme oxygenase-1, the major inducible isoform of heme oxygenase (HO), can be induced by heme and numerous other physical and chemical factors, many of which cause cellular 'stress'. This has led to the realization that HO-1 is a major highly conserved stress or heat shock protein. Recent work has implicated activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and other kinases in the mechanism of induction of HO-1, and suggested that signal transduction pathways through tyrosine kinases are involved in induction of HO-1 gene expression by stress inducers. We hypothesized that phenylarsine oxide (PAO), an inhibitor of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs), might up-regulate the HO-1 gene. Here, we show that a remarkably brief (1-15 min) exposure of normal hepatocytes to low concentrations (0.5-3 microM) of PAO produces a marked increase in mRNA and protein of HO-1. This increase is comparable to the level obtained by addition of heme (20 microM), and occurs without producing changes in cellular glutathione levels or stabilization of HO-1 message. Preincubation of cells with inhibitors of protein synthesis decreased the ability of PAO to increase levels of HO-1 mRNA, suggesting that the inductive effect requires de novo protein synthesis. Addition of thiol donors abrogated the PAO-mediated induction of HO-1 in a dose dependent fashion. Addition of genistein, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, blunted the induction produced by both PAO and heme. After brief incubations with PAO or heme, cell extracts showed comparable increases in levels of protein tyrosine phosphorylation in general, and specifically in ZAP70 kinase. Our results are consistent with the proposition that induction of HO-1 by PAO involves inhibition of specific PTP(s), and that the mechanisms of induction of HO-1 by PAO and by heme may share some common pathways.

Induction of heme oxygenase-1 by Ginkgo Biloba Extract but not its terpenoids partially mediated its protective effect against lysophosphatidylcholine-induced damage

In this study, we examined whether Ginkgo Biloba Extract and its terpenoid constituents protect against oxidative stress through actions on heme oxygenase (HO) gene expression and activity. HO-1 and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) gene expressions were examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis, HO activity and GPx enzyme activity were analysed by spectrophotometric assay. Pretreatment of H9c2 myocytes with 100–500μgml−1 Ginkgo Biloba Extract caused induction of HO-1 gene expression and a significant increase in HO activity; 30 μgml−1ginkgolide B and 30μgml−1 bilobalide had little effect. Treatment with Ginkgo Biloba Extract for 24 h also significantly increased GPx gene expression and GPx enzyme activity. Pretreatment with Ginkgo Biloba Extract, ginkgolide B and bilobalide protected myocytes against lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC)-induced damage. The protective effect of Ginkgo Biloba Extract against LPC-induced damage was partially suppressed by a HO inhibitor, Zinc protoporphyrin-IX (ZnPP-IX), while ZnPP-IX did not suppress the protective effect of ginkgolide B or bilobalide. Furthermore, pretreatment with hemin, biliverdin or bilirubin reduced cytotoxicity induced by LPC. These results suggest that induction of HO-1 by Ginkgo Biloba Extract but not its terpenoid constituents may play a beneficial role in oxidative stress. The mechanism of Ginkgo Biloba Extract-induced HO-1 gene expression and the increase in HO activity may be related to alteration of intracellular glutathione levels.