Search

To potentially identify proteins that interact (i.e. bind) and may contribute to mediate (−)-epicatechin (Epi) responses in endothelial cells we implemented the following strategy: 1) synthesis of novel Epi derivatives amenable to affinity column use, 2) in silico molecular docking studies of the novel derivatives on G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), 3) biological assessment of the derivatives on NO production, 4) implementation of an immobilized Epi derivative affinity column and, 5) affinity column based isolation of Epi interacting proteins from endothelial cell protein extracts. For these purposes, the Epi phenol and C3 hydroxyl groups were chemically modified with propargyl or mesyl groups. Docking studies of the novel Epi derivatives on GPER conformers at 14 ns and 70 ns demostrated favorable thermodynamic interactions reaching the binding site. Cultures of bovine coronary artery endothelial cells (BCAEC) treated with Epi derivatives stimulated NO production via Ser1179 phosphorylation of eNOS, effects that were attenuated by the use of the GPER blocker, G15. Epi derivative affinity columns yielded multiple proteins from BCAEC. Proteins were electrophoretically separated and inmmunoblotting analysis revealed GPER as an Epi derivative binding protein. Altogether, these results validate the proposed strategy to potentially isolate and identify novel Epi receptors that may account for its biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The consumption of cacao-derived products, particularly in the form of dark chocolate is known to provide beneficial cardiovascular effects in normal individuals and in those with vascular dysfunction (reduced nitric oxide [NO] bioavailability and/or synthesis). Upstream mechanisms by which flavonoids exert these effects are poorly understood and may involve the participation of cell membrane receptors. We previously demonstrated that the flavanol (−)-epicatechin (EPI) stimulates NO production via Ca+2-independent eNOS activation/phosphorylation. We wished to investigate the plausible participation of a cell surface receptor using a novel cell-membrane impermeable EPI–Dextran conjugate (EPI–Dx). Under Ca2+-free conditions, human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAEC) were treated for 10min with EPI or EPI–Dx at equimolar concentrations (100nM). Results demonstrate that both EPI and EPI–Dx induced the phosphorylation/activation of PI3K, PDK-1, AKT and eNOS. Interestingly, EPI–Dx effects were significantly higher in magnitude than those of EPI alone. The capacity of EPI–Dx to stimulate cell responses supports the existence of an EPI cell membrane receptor mediating eNOS activation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Impaired mitochondrial function represents an early manifestation of endothelial dysfunction and likely contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The stimulation of mitochondrial function and/or biogenesis is seen as a means to improve the bioenergetic and metabolic status of cells and thus, reduce CVD. In this study we examined the capacity of the flavanol (−)-epicatechin and two novel derivatives to enhance mitochondrial function and protein levels in cultured bovine coronary artery endothelial cells. As nitric oxide production by endothelial cells is suspected in mediating mitochondria effects (including biogenesis), we also examined the dependence of responses on this molecule using an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. Results indicate that the flavanol (−)-epicatechin and derivatives are capable of stimulating mitochondrial function as assessed by citrate synthase activity as well as induction of structural (porin, mitofilin) and oxidative phosporylation protein levels (complex I and II). Effects were blocked by the use of the chemical inhibitor of the synthase thus, evidencing a role for nitric oxide in mediating these effects. The results observed indicate that the three agents are effective in enhancing mitochondria function and protein content. The effects noted for (−)-epicatechin may serve to explain the healthy effects on cardiometabolic risk ascribed to the consumption of cocoa products. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]