H2S signaling in redox regulation of cellular functions

2013 ◽  
Vol 91 (1) ◽  
pp. 8-14 ◽  
Author(s):  
Youngjun Ju ◽  
Weihua Zhang ◽  
Yanxi Pei ◽  
Guangdong Yang
Keyword(s):  
Mammalian Cells ◽  
Redox Regulation ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Redox Homeostasis ◽  
Therapeutic Interventions ◽  
Post Translational Modification ◽  
Cellular Functions ◽  
Future Design ◽  
Cellular Effects

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is traditionally recognized as a toxic gas with a rotten-egg smell. In just the last few decades, H2S has been found to be one of a family of gasotransmitters, together with nitric oxide and carbon monoxide, and various physiologic effects of H2S have been reported. Among the most acknowledged molecular mechanisms for the cellular effects of H2S is the regulation of intracellular redox homeostasis and post-translational modification of proteins through S-sulfhydration. On the one side, H2S can promote an antioxidant effect and is cytoprotective; on the other side, H2S stimulates oxidative stress and is cytotoxic. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the antioxidant versus pro-oxidant effects of H2S in mammalian cells and describes the Janus-faced properties of this novel gasotransmitter. The redox regulation for the cellular effects of H2S through S-sulfhydration and the role of H2S in glutathione generation is also recapitulated. A better understanding of H2S-regualted redox homeostasis will pave the way for future design of novel pharmacological and therapeutic interventions for various diseases.

scholarly journals Role of RNF20 in cancer development and progression – a comprehensive review

2018 ◽  
Vol 38 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gautam Sethi ◽  
Muthu K. Shanmugam ◽  
Frank Arfuso ◽  
Alan Prem Kumar
Keyword(s):  
Mammalian Cells ◽  
Genome Instability ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Strand Break ◽  
Cancer Development ◽  
Transcriptional Elongation ◽  
Histone H2a ◽  
Post Translational Modification ◽  
Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma ◽  
Suppressor Activity

Evolving strategies to counter cancer initiation and progression rely on the identification of novel therapeutic targets that exploit the aberrant genetic changes driving oncogenesis. Several chromatin associated enzymes have been shown to influence post-translational modification (PTM) in DNA, histones, and non-histone proteins. Any deregulation of this core group of enzymes often leads to cancer development. Ubiquitylation of histone H2B in mammalian cells was identified over three decades ago. An exciting really interesting new gene (RING) family of E3 ubiquitin ligases, known as RNF20 and RNF40, monoubiquitinates histone H2A at K119 or H2B at K120, is known to function in transcriptional elongation, DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair processes, maintenance of chromatin differentiation, and exerting tumor suppressor activity. RNF20 is somatically altered in breast, lung, prostate cancer, clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and mixed lineage leukemia, and its reduced expression is a key factor in initiating genome instability; and it also functions as one of the significant driving factors of oncogenesis. Loss of RNF20/40 and H2B monoubiquitination (H2Bub1) is found in several cancers and is linked to an aggressive phenotype, and is also an indicator of poor prognosis. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge of RNF20 in chronic inflammation-driven cancers, DNA DSBs, and apoptosis, and its impact on chromatin structure beyond the single nucleosome level.

scholarly journals C-terminal tail polyglycylation and polyglutamylation alter microtubule mechanical properties

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn P. Wall ◽  
Harold Hart ◽  
Thomas Lee ◽  
Cynthia Page ◽  
Taviare L. Hawkins ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mechanical Properties ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
High Stress ◽  
Resonance Spectroscopy ◽  
Post Translational Modification ◽  
Cellular Functions ◽  
Peptide Backbone ◽  
Post Translational Modifications ◽  
Intrinsic Stiffness ◽  
Insight Into

ABSTRACTMicrotubules are biopolymers that perform diverse cellular functions. The regulation of microtubule behavior occurs in part through post-translational modification of both the α- and β- subunits of tubulin. One class of modifications is the heterogeneous addition of glycine and glutamate residues to the disordered C-terminal tails of tubulin. Due to their prevalence in stable, high stress cellular structures such as cilia, we sought to determine if these modifications alter the intrinsic stiffness of microtubules. Here we describe the purification and characterization of differentially-modified pools of tubulin from Tetrahymena thermophila. We found that glycylation on the α-C-terminal tail is a key determinant of microtubule stiffness, but does not affect the number of protofilaments incorporated into microtubules. We measured the dynamics of the tail peptide backbone using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We found that the spin-spin relaxation rate (R2) showed a pronounced decreased as a function of distance from the tubulin surface for the α-tubulin tail, indicating that the α-tubulin tail interacts with the dimer surface. This suggests that the interactions of the α-C-terminal tail with the tubulin body contributes to the stiffness of the assembled microtubule, providing insight into the mechanism by which glycylation and glutamylation can alter microtubule mechanical properties.SIGNIFICANCEMicrotubules are regulated in part by post-translational modifications including the heterogeneous addition of glycine and glutamate residues to the C-terminal tails. By producing and characterizing differentially-modified tubulin, this work provides insight into the molecular mechanisms of how these modifications alter intrinsic microtubule properties such as flexibility. These results have broader implications for mechanisms of how ciliary structures are able to function under high stress.

Visible Blue Light Therapy: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities

2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (40) ◽  
pp. 5564-5577 ◽  
Author(s):  
Z.C. Félix Garza ◽  
M. Born ◽  
P.A.J. Hilbers ◽  
N.A.W. van Riel ◽  
J. Liebmann
Keyword(s):  
Blue Light ◽  
Mammalian Cells ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Near Infrared ◽  
Light Therapy ◽  
Cellular Mechanisms ◽  
Therapeutic Applications ◽  
Cellular Effects ◽  
Inflammatory Skin ◽  
Skin Conditions

Background: Visible light is absorbed by photoacceptors in pigmented and non-pigmented mammalian cells, activating signaling cascades and downstream mechanisms that lead to the modulation of cellular processes. Most studies have investigated the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic applications of UV and the red to near infrared regions of the visible spectrum. Considerably less effort has been dedicated to the blue, UV-free part of the spectrum. Objective: In this review, we discuss the current advances in the understanding of the molecular photoacceptors, signaling mechanisms, and corresponding therapeutic opportunities of blue light photoreception in non-visual mammalian cells in the context of inflammatory skin conditions. Methods: The literature was scanned for peer-reviewed articles focusing on the molecular mechanisms, cellular effects, and therapeutic applications of blue light. Results: At a molecular level, blue light is absorbed by flavins, porphyrins, nitrosated proteins, and opsins; inducing the generation of ROS, nitric oxide release, and the activation of G protein coupled signaling. Limited and contrasting results have been reported on the cellular effects of blue light induced signaling. Some investigations describe a regulation of proliferation and differentiation or a modulation of inflammatory parameters; others show growth inhibition and apoptosis. Regardless of the elusive underlying mechanism, clinical studies show that blue light is beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions. Conclusion: To strengthen the use of blue light for therapeutic purposes, further in depth studies are clearly needed with regard to its underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms, and their translation into clinical applications.

scholarly journals Expression of the trxC Gene of Rhodobacter capsulatus: Response to Cellular Redox Status Is Mediated by the Transcriptional Regulator OxyR

2006 ◽  
Vol 188 (21) ◽  
pp. 7689-7695 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tanja Zeller ◽  
Kuanyu Li ◽  
Gabriele Klug
Keyword(s):  
Redox Regulation ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Rhodobacter Capsulatus ◽  
Transcriptional Regulator ◽  
Redox Status ◽  
Cellular Functions ◽  
Cellular Redox

ABSTRACT Despite the importance of thioredoxins in cellular functions, little is known about the regulation of trx genes. To understand the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of the Rhodobacter capsulatus trxC gene, the expression of this gene was investigated. We describe OxyR-dependent redox regulation of the trxC gene that adjusts the levels of thioredoxins in the cell.

scholarly journals Enhancing autophagy by redox regulation extends lifespan in Drosophila

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Helena M. Cochemé ◽  
Ivana Bjedov ◽  
Sebastian Grönke ◽  
Katja E. Menger ◽  
Andrew M. James ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Redox Regulation ◽  
Redox Homeostasis ◽  
Model Organism ◽  
Fruit Fly ◽  
Cysteine Residue ◽  
Lifespan Extension ◽  
Post Translational Modification ◽  
Redox Signalling ◽  
Age Related

Redox signalling is an important modulator of diverse biological pathways and processes, and operates through specific post-translational modification of redox-sensitive thiols on cysteine residues 1–4. Critically, redox signalling is distinct from irreversible oxidative damage and functions as a reversible ‘redox switch’ to regulate target proteins. H2O2 acts as the major effector of redox signalling, both directly and through intracellular thiol redox relays 5,6. Dysregulation of redox homeostasis has long been implicated in the pathophysiology of many age-related diseases, as well as in the ageing process itself, however the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear 7,8. To study redox signalling by H2O2in vivo and explore its involvement in metabolic health and longevity, we used the fruit fly Drosophila as a model organism, with its tractable lifespan and strong evolutionary conservation with mammals 9. Here we report that inducing an endogenous redox-shift, by manipulating levels of the H2O2-degrading enzyme catalase, improves health and robustly extends lifespan in flies, independently of oxidative stress resistance and dietary restriction. We find that the catalase redox-shifted flies are acutely sensitive to starvation stress, which relies on autophagy as a vital survival mechanism. Importantly, we show that autophagy is essential for the lifespan extension of the catalase flies. Furthermore, using redox-inactive knock-in mutants of Atg4a, a major effector of autophagy, we show that the lifespan extension in response to catalase requires a key redox-regulatory cysteine residue, Cys102 in Atg4a. These findings demonstrate that redox regulation of autophagy can extend lifespan, confirming the importance of redox signalling in ageing and as a potential pro-longevity target.

scholarly journals Pathophysiological Role of K2P Channels in Human Diseases

2021 ◽  
Vol 55 (S3) ◽  
pp. 65-86
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Expression Patterns ◽  
Ion Homeostasis ◽  
Human Diseases ◽  
Cellular Functions ◽  
Aberrant Expression ◽  
K2p Channels ◽  
And Function

The family of two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels is critically involved in central cellular functions such as ion homeostasis, cell development, and excitability. K2P channels are widely expressed in different human cell types and organs. It is therefore not surprising that aberrant expression and function of K2P channels are related to a spectrum of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmune, CNS, cardiovascular, and urinary tract disorders. Despite homologies in structure, expression, and stimulus, the functional diversity of K2P channels leads to heterogeneous influences on human diseases. The role of individual K2P channels in different disorders depends on expression patterns and modulation in cellular functions. However, an imbalance of potassium homeostasis and action potentials contributes to most disease pathologies. In this review, we provide an overview of current knowledge on the role of K2P channels in human diseases. We look at altered channel expression and function, the potential underlying molecular mechanisms, and prospective research directions in the field of K2P channels.

scholarly journals Regulatory Role of Redox Balance in Determination of Neural Precursor Cell Fate

2017 ◽  
Vol 2017 ◽  
pp. 1-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohamed Ariff Iqbal ◽  
Eftekhar Eftekharpour
Keyword(s):  
Cell Fate ◽  
Redox Regulation ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Human Life ◽  
Redox Balance ◽  
Mammalian Brain ◽  
Proliferation And Differentiation ◽  
Stem And Progenitor Cells ◽  
Cellular Turnover

In 1990s, reports of discovery of a small group of cells capable of proliferation and contribution to formation of new neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) reversed a century-old concept on lack of neurogenesis in the adult mammalian brain. These cells are found in all stages of human life and contribute to normal cellular turnover of the CNS. Therefore, the identity of regulating factors that affect their proliferation and differentiation is a highly noteworthy issue for basic scientists and their clinician counterparts for therapeutic purposes. The cues for such control are embedded in developmental and environmental signaling through a highly regulated tempo-spatial expression of specific transcription factors. Novel findings indicate the importance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the regulation of this signaling system. The elusive nature of ROS signaling in many vital processes from cell proliferation to cell death creates a complex literature in this field. Here, we discuss the emerging thoughts on the importance of redox regulation of proliferation and maintenance in mammalian neural stem and progenitor cells under physiological and pathological conditions. The current knowledge on ROS-mediated changes in redox-sensitive proteins that govern the molecular mechanisms in proliferation and differentiation of these cells is reviewed.

Neuronal calcium sensor-1: a multifunctional regulator of secretion

2003 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 828-832 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Hilfiker
Keyword(s):  
Guanylate Cyclase ◽  
Neurotransmitter Release ◽  
Mammalian Cells ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Photoreceptor Cells ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Dependent Manner ◽  
Calcium Sensor ◽  
Neuronal Calcium Sensor

Ca2+ ions play a crucial role not only as the trigger for neurotransmitter release, but also in other aspects of brain function, such as short-term and long-term modulation of synaptic efficacy, which may underlie certain forms of learning and memory. The actions of Ca2+ are mediated by Ca2+-binding proteins, including a group of proteins known as neuronal calcium sensor (NCS) proteins. The NCS family includes NCS-1, visinin-like proteins, recoverins, guanylate cyclase-activating proteins and potassium channel-interacting proteins. Some members of this family, such as recoverin and guanylate cyclase-activating protein, are only expressed in photoreceptor cells and have been implicated in the control of visual transduction pathways, while the functional roles of the other members are largely unknown. NCS-1 was originally identified in Drosophila in a screen for neuronal hyperexcitability mutants. NCS-1 is an N-terminally myristoylated protein that contains four EF-hand motifs, three of which are able to bind Ca2+ in the submicromolar range. Overexpression of NCS-1 has been shown to enhance evoked neurotransmitter release, paired-pulse facilitation and exocytosis in several neuronal and neuroendocrine cell types. Recent experiments suggest that NCS-1 interacts directly with phosphatidylinositol 4-hydroxykinase in yeast as well as mammalian cells, suggesting that it may enhance neuronal secretion by modulating cellular trafficking steps in a phosphoinositide-dependent manner. In contrast, an involvement of NCS-1 in the expression and regulation of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels and K+ channels has also been proposed, which may be attributed, at least in part, to the effects of NCS-1 on vesicular trafficking pathways. The present review describes current knowledge about the cellular functions and molecular mechanisms by which NCS-1 may regulate neurotransmitter release.

scholarly journals Molecular Biology of Escherichia coli Shiga Toxins’ Effects on Mammalian Cells

Toxins ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 345 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christian Menge
Keyword(s):  
Escherichia Coli ◽  
Mammalian Cells ◽  
Time Course ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia Coli ◽  
Mammalian Host ◽  
Target Cells ◽  
Cellular Functions ◽  
Comprehensive Overview ◽  
Shiga Toxins

Shiga toxins (Stxs), syn. Vero(cyto)toxins, are potent bacterial exotoxins and the principal virulence factor of enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), a subset of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). EHEC strains, e.g., strains of serovars O157:H7 and O104:H4, may cause individual cases as well as large outbreaks of life-threatening diseases in humans. Stxs primarily exert a ribotoxic activity in the eukaryotic target cells of the mammalian host resulting in rapid protein synthesis inhibition and cell death. Damage of endothelial cells in the kidneys and the central nervous system by Stxs is central in the pathogenesis of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in humans and edema disease in pigs. Probably even more important, the toxins also are capable of modulating a plethora of essential cellular functions, which eventually disturb intercellular communication. The review aims at providing a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of the time course and the consecutive steps of Stx/cell interactions at the molecular level. Intervention measures deduced from an in-depth understanding of this molecular interplay may foster our basic understanding of cellular biology and microbial pathogenesis and pave the way to the creation of host-directed active compounds to mitigate the pathological conditions of STEC infections in the mammalian body.

scholarly journals Redox Regulation by Protein S-Glutathionylation: From Molecular Mechanisms to Implications in Health and Disease

2020 ◽  
Vol 21 (21) ◽  
pp. 8113 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aysenur Musaogullari ◽  
Yuh-Cherng Chai
Keyword(s):  
Protein Function ◽  
Liver Diseases ◽  
Redox Regulation ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Protein S ◽  
Protective Mechanism ◽  
Post Translational Modification ◽  
Physiological Processes ◽  
Health And Disease ◽  
Mixed Disulfides

S-glutathionylation, the post-translational modification forming mixed disulfides between protein reactive thiols and glutathione, regulates redox-based signaling events in the cell and serves as a protective mechanism against oxidative damage. S-glutathionylation alters protein function, interactions, and localization across physiological processes, and its aberrant function is implicated in various human diseases. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of S-glutathionylation and describe the changing levels of expression of S-glutathionylation in the context of aging, cancer, cardiovascular, and liver diseases.

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