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Intrauterine programming of cardiovascular and renal function occurs in diabetes because of the adverse maternal environment. Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and -2 (HO-2) exert vasodilatory and antioxidant actions, particularly in conditions of elevated HO-1 expression or deficient nitric oxide levels. We evaluated whether the activity of the heme-HO system is differentially regulated by oxidative stress in the female offspring of diabetic mothers, contributing to the improved cardiovascular function in comparison with males. Diabetes was induced in pregnant rats by a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg ip) in late gestation. Three-month-old male offspring from diabetic mothers (MODs) exhibited higher blood pressure (BP), higher renal vascular resistance (RVR), worse endothelium-dependent response to acetylcholine (ACH), and an increased constrictor response to phenylephrine (PHE) compared with those in age-matched female offspring of diabetic mothers (FODs), which were abolished by chronic tempol (1 mM) treatment. In anesthetized animals, stannous mesoporphyrin (SnMP; 40 µmol/kg iv) administration, to inhibit HO activity, increased RVR in FODs and reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in MODs, without altering these parameters in control animals. When compared with MODs, FODs showed lower nitrotirosyne levels and higher HO-1 protein expression in renal homogenates. Indeed, chronic treatment with tempol in MODs prevented elevations in nitrotyrosine levels and the acute renal hemodynamics response to SnMP. Then, maternal diabetes results in sex-specific hypertension and renal alterations associated with oxidative stress mainly in adult male offspring, which are reduced in the female offspring by elevation in HO-1 expression and lower oxidative stress levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging evidence suggests that gaseous molecules, carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) generated by heme oxygenase (HO)-2 and cystathionine c-lyase (CSE), respectively, function as transmitters in the nervous system. Present study examined the roles of CO and H2S in hypoxia-induced catecholamine (CA) release from adrenal medullary chromaffin cells (AMCs). Studies were performed on AMCs from adult (≥6wk of age) wild-type (WT), HO-2 null, CSE null, and HO-2/CSE double null mice of either gender. CA secretion was determined by carbon fiber amperometry and [Ca2+]i by microflurometry using Fura-2. HO-2- and CSE immunoreactivities were seen in WT AMC, which were absent in HO-2 and CSE null mice. Hypoxia (medium PO2 30-38 mmHg) evoked CA release and elevated [Ca2+]i. The magnitude of hypoxic response was greater in HO-2 null mice and in HO inhibitor-treated WT AMC compared with controls. H2S levels were elevated in HO-2 null AMC. Either pharmacological inhibition or genetic deletion of CSE prevented the augmented hypoxic responses of HO-2 null AMC and H2S donor rescued AMC responses to hypoxia in HO-2/CSE double null mice. CORM3, a CO donor, prevented the augmented hypoxic responses in WT and HO-2 null AMC. CO donor reduced H2S levels in WT AMC. The effects of CO donor were blocked by either ODQ or 8pCT, inhibitors of soluble guanylyl cyclase (SGC) or protein kinase G, respectively. These results suggest that HO-2-derived CO inhibits hypoxia-evoked CA secretion from adult murine AMC involving soluble guanylyl cyclase (SGC)-protein kinase G (PKG)-dependent regulation of CSE-derived H2S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research on bilirubin, a historically well-known waste product of heme catabolism, suggests an entirely new function as a metabolic hormone that drives gene transcription by nuclear receptors. Studies are now revealing that low plasma bilirubin levels, defined as "hypobilirubinemia," are a possible new pathology analogous to the other end of the spectrum of extreme hyperbilirubinemia seen in patients with jaundice and liver dysfunction. Hypobilirubinemia is most commonly seen in patients with metabolic dysfunction, which may lead to cardiovascular complications and possibly stroke. We address the clinical significance of low bilirubin levels. A better understanding of bilirubin's hormonal function may explain why hypobilirubinemia might be deleterious. We present mechanisms by which bilirubin may be protective at mildly elevated levels and research directions that could generate treatment possibilities for patients with hypobilirubinemia, such as targeting of pathways that regulate its production or turnover or the newly designed bilirubin nanoparticles. Our review here calls for a shift in the perspective of an old molecule that could benefit millions of patients with hypobilirubinemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotid body (CB) type I cells sense the blood PO2 and generate a nervous signal for stimulating ventilation and circulation when blood oxygen levels decline. Three oxygen-sensing enzyme complexes may be used for this purpose: 1) mitochondrial electron transport chain metabolism, 2) heme oxygenase 2 (HO-2)-generating CO, and/or 3) an NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX). We hypothesize that intracellular redox changes are the link between the sensor and nervous signals. To test this hypothesis type I cell autofluorescence of flavoproteins (Fp) and NAD(P)H within the mouse CB ex vivo was recorded as Fp/(Fp-NAD(P)H) redox ratio. CB type I cell redox ratio transiently declined with the onset of hypoxia. Upon reoxygenation, CB type I cells showed a significantly increased redox ratio. As a control organ, the non-oxygen-sensing sympathetic superior cervical ganglion (SCG) showed a continuously reduced redox ratio upon hypoxia. CN, diphenyleneiodonium, or reactive oxygen species influenced chemoreceptor discharge (CND) with subsequent loss of O2 sensitivity and inhibited hypoxic Fp reduction only in the CB but not in SCG Fp, indicating a specific role of Fp in the oxygen-sensing process. Hypoxia-induced changes in CB type I cell redox ratio affected peptidyl prolyl isomerase Pin1, which is believed to colocalize with the NADPH oxidase subunit p47phox in the cell membrane to trigger the opening of potassium channels. We postulate that hypoxia-induced changes in the Fp-mediated redox ratio of the CB regulate the Pin1/p47phox tandem to alter type I cell potassium channels and therewith CND. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The progression of coronary artery diseases in premenopausal women is lower than in age-matched men; however, its probability increases rapidly after menopause. The aim of our study was to investigate the postconditioning-like effects of voluntary physical exercise on postmenopausal cardiovascular outcomes after myocardial infarction. We used fertile Wistar females [control (CTRL)] and pharmacologically induced estrogen-deficient (POVX; 750 µg/kg triptorelin im, every 4th week) rats. CTRL and POVX animals were randomly assigned to receive an injection of 0.1 mg isoproterenol (ISO)/kg. At the 20th hour after ISO injection, serum markers of myocardial injury, such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and myoglobin, were measured. After a 3-wk resting period, ISO-treated and untreated animals were further divided into subgroups on the basis of 6 wk of physical exercise. At the end of the experiment, cardiac activity and content of the antioxidative heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme, levels of GSH and GSH + GSSG, activity of myeloperoxidase, as well as the concentration of TNF-α were determined. At the end of the experimental period, we observed a significant decrease in the activity and content of HO enzymes in POVX and POVX/ISO rats, whereas physical exercise significantly improved HO and GSH values in both CTRL and POVX rats. Furthermore, our training protocol significantly reduced the pathological levels of myeloperoxidase and TNF-α. Our findings clearly demonstrate that modulation of the HO system by voluntary physical exercise is a key process to decrease inflammatory parameters and ameliorate the antioxidative status in estrogen-deficient conditions postmyocardial injury. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We used a noninvasive rat model of estrogen deficiency and myocardial infarction. The long-term effects of isoproterenol treatment revealed reduced heme oxygenase enzyme activity and expression and decreased glutathione levels. Isoproterenol treatment enhanced the myeloperoxidase enzyme activity. Voluntary physical exercise ameliorated the antioxidative status by increasing of the heme oxygenase enzyme system. Voluntary physical exercise is a potential therapeutic tool to improve cardiac antioxidant status in menopausal women postmyocardial injury. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We used a noninvasive rat model of estrogen deficiency and myocardial infarction. The long-term effects of isoproterenol treatment revealed reduced heme oxygenase enzyme activity and expression and decreased glutathione levels. Isoproterenol treatment enhanced the myeloperoxidase enzyme activity. Voluntary physical exercise ameliorated the antioxidative status by increasing of the heme oxygenase enzyme system. Voluntary physical exercise is a potential therapeutic tool to improve cardiac antioxidant status in menopausal women postmyocardial injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bilirubin, a potentially toxic catabolite of heme and indicator of hepatobiliary insufficiency, exhibits potent cardiac and vascular protective properties. Individuals with Gilbert's syndrome (GS) may experience hyperbilirubinemia in response to stressors including reduced hepatic bilirubin excretion/increased red blood cell breakdown, with individuals usually informed by their clinician that their condition is of little consequence. However, GS appears to protect from all-cause mortality, with progressively elevated total bilirubin associated with protection from ischemic heart and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Bilirubin may protect against these diseases and associated mortality by reducing circulating cholesterol, oxidative lipid/protein modifications, and blood pressure. In addition, bilirubin inhibits platelet activation and protects the heart from ischemia-reperfusion injury. These effects attenuate multiple stages of the atherosclerotic process in addition to protecting the heart during resultant ischemic stress, likely underpinning the profound reduction in cardiovascular mortality in hyperbilirubinemic GS. This review outlines our current knowledge of and uses for bilirubin in clinical medicine and summarizes recent progress in revealing the physiological importance of this poorly understood molecule. We believe that this review will be of significant interest to clinicians, medical researchers, and individuals who have GS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activation of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channels evokes cell survival programs that mitigate intestinal ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) inflammation and injury 24 h later. The goal of the present study was to determine the roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and heme oxygenase (HO)-1 in delayed acquisition of tolerance to I/R induced by pretreatment with the BKCa channel opener NS-1619. Superior mesentery arteries were occluded for 45 min followed by reperfusion for 70 min in wild-type (WT) or HO-1-null (HO-1-/-) mice that were pretreated with NS-1619 or saline vehicle 24 h earlier. Intravital microscopy was used to quantify the numbers of rolling and adherent leukocytes. Mucosal permeability, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, and HO-1 activity and expression in jejunum were also determined. I/R induced leukocyte rolling and adhesion, increased intestinal TNF-α levels, and enhanced mucosal permeability in WT mice, effects that were largely abolished by pretreatment with NS-1619. The anti-inflammatory and mucosal permeability-sparing effects of NS-1619 were prevented by coincident treatment with the HO-1 inhibitor tin protoporphyrin-IX or a cell-permeant SOD mimetic, Mn(III)tetrakis (4-benzoic acid) porphyrin (MnTBAP), in WT mice. NS-1619 also increased jejunal HO-1 activity in WT animals, an effect that was attenuated by treatment with the BKCa channel antagonist paxilline or MnTBAP. I/R also increased postischemic leukocyte rolling and adhesion and intestinal TNF-α levels in HO-1-/- mice to levels comparable to those noted in WT animals. However, NS-1619 was ineffective in preventing these effects in HO-1-deficient mice. In summary, our data indicate that NS-1619 induces the development of an anti-inflammatory phenotype and mitigates postischemic mucosal barrier disruption in the small intestine by a mechanism that may involve ROS-dependent HO-1 activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have previously reported that epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET) has multiple beneficial effects on vascular function; in addition to its antiapoptotic action, it increases insulin sensitivity and inhibits inflammation. To uncover the signaling mechanisms by which EET reduces cardiomyopathy, we hypothesized that EET infusion might ameliorate obesity-induced cardiomyopathy by improving heme oxygenase (HO)-1, Wnt1, thermogenic gene levels, and mitochondrial integrity in cardiac tissues and improved pericardial fat phenotype. EET reduced levels of fasting blood glucose and proinflammatory adipokines, including nephroblastoma overexpressed (NOV) signaling, while increasing echocardiographic fractional shortening and O2 consumption. Of interest, we also noted a marked improvement in mitochondrial integrity, thermogenic genes, and Wnt 1 and HO-1 signaling mechanisms. Knockout of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) in EETtreated mice resulted in a reversal of these beneficial effects including a decrease in myocardial Wnt1 and HO-1 expression and an increase in NOV. To further elucidate the effects of EET on pericardial adipose tissues, we observed EET treatment increases in adiponectin, PGC-1α, phospho-AMP-activated protein kinase, insulin receptor phosphorylation, and thermogenic genes, resulting in a "browning" pericardial adipose phenotype under high-fat diets. Collectively, these experiments demonstrate that an EET agonist increased Wnt1 and HO-1 signaling while decreasing NOV pathways and the progression of cardiomyopathy. Furthermore, this report presents a portal into potential therapeutic approaches for the treatment of heart failure and metabolic syndrome. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The mechanism by which EET acts on obesity-induced cardiomyopathy is unknown. Here, we describe a previously unrecognized function of EET infusion that inhibits nephroblastoma overexpressed (NOV) levels and activates Wnt1, hence identifying NOV inhibition and enhanced Wnt1 expression as novel pharmacological targets for the prevention and treatment of cardiomyopathy and heart failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endogenous carbon monoxide (CO) levels are recognized as a surrogate marker for activity of heme oxygenase-1, which is induced by various factors, including hypoxia and oxidative stress. Few reports have evaluated endogenous CO in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Whether OSA more greatly affects exhaled or blood CO is not known. Sixty-nine patients with suspected OSA were prospectively included in this study. Exhaled and blood CO were evaluated at night and morning. Blood and exhaled CO levels were well correlated both at night and morning (r = 0.52, P<0.0001 and r = 0.61, P<0.0001, respectively). Although exhaled CO levels both at night and morning significantly correlated with total sleep time with arterial oxygen saturation < 90% (p =0.41, P = 0.0005 and p = 0.27, P = 0.024, respectively), blood CO levels did not correlate with any sleep parameter. Seventeen patients with an apnea and hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 15 (control group) were compared with 52 patients with AHI < 15 (OSA group). Exhaled CO levels at night in the OSA group were significantly higher than in the control group (3.64 ± 1.2 vs. 2.99 ± 0.70 ppm, P < 0.05). Exhaled CO levels at night decreased after 3 mo of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy in OSA patients (n = 36; P = 0.016) to become nearly the same level as in the control group (P = 0.21). Blood CO levels did not significantly change after CPAP therapy. Exhaled CO was positively related to hypoxia during sleep in OSA patients, but blood CO was not. Exhaled CO might better correlate with oxidative stress associated with OSA than blood CO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme oxygenases are composed of two isozymes, Hmox1 and Hmox2, that catalyze the degradation of heme to carbon monoxide (CO), ferrous iron, and biliverdin, the latter of which is subsequently converted to bilirubin. While initially considered to be waste products, CO and biliverdin/bilirubin have been shown over the last 20 years to modulate key cellular processes, such as inflammation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis, as well as antioxidant defense. This shift in paradigm has led to the importance of heme oxygenases and their products in cell physiology now being well accepted. The identification of the two human cases thus far of heme oxygenase deficiency and the generation of mice deficient in Hmox1 or Hmox2 have reiterated a role for these enzymes in both normal cell function and disease pathogenesis, especially in the context of cardiovascular disease. This review covers the current knowledge on the function of both Hmox1 and Hmox2 at both a cellular and tissue level in the cardiovascular system. Initially, the roles of heme oxygenases in vascular health and the regulation of processes central to vascular diseases are outlined, followed by an evaluation of the role(s) of Hmox1 and Hmox2 in various diseases such as atherosclerosis, intimal hyperplasia, myocardial infarction, and angiogenesis. Finally, the therapeutic potential of heme oxygenases and their products are examined in a cardiovascular disease context, with a focus on how the knowledge we have gained on these enzymes may be capitalized in future clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) increases sympathetic tone and respiratory instability. Our previous work showed that chronic hypoxia induces the oxygen-sensing enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) within the C1 sympathoexcitatory region and the pre-Bötzinger complex (pre-BötC). We therefore examined the effect of CIH on time course of induced expression of HO-1 within these regions and determined whether the induction of HO-1 correlated with changes in respiratory, sigh frequency, and sympathetic responses (spectral analysis of heart rate) to acute hypoxia (10% O2) during 10 days of exposure to CIH in chronically instrumented awake wild-type (WT) and HO-1 null mice (HO-1-/-). HO-1 was induced within the C1 and pre-BötC regions after 1 day of CIH. There were no significant differences in the baseline respiratory parameters between WT and HO-1-/- Prior to CIH, acute hypoxia increased respiratory frequency in both WT and HO-1-/-; however, minute diaphragm electromyogram activity increased in WT but not HO-1-/- The hypoxic respiratory response after 1 and 10 days of CIH was restored in HO-1-/- CIH resulted in an initial significant decline in 1) the hypoxic sigh frequency response, which was restored in WT but not HO-1-/-, and 2) the baseline sympathetic activity in WT and HO-1-/-, which remained stable subsequently in WT but not in HO-1-/- We conclude that 1) CIH induces expression of HO-1 in the C1 and pre-BötC regions within 1 day and 2) HO-1 is necessary for hypoxia respiratory response and contributes to the maintenance of the hypoxic sigh responses and baseline sympathetic activity during CIH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the lung, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is developmentally regulated, with its highest expression in the first days of life. In addition, neonatal mice have limited HO-1 induction in hyperoxia compared with adults. However, few reports have addressed the functional effect of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the regulation of HO-1 in vivo. The aims of the present study were to characterize changes in lung miRNA expression during postnatal development and in response to hyperoxic exposure, and to identify miRNAs that target lung HO-1 gene expression. Neonatal (<12 h old) and adult (2 mo old) mice were exposed to room air or hyperoxia (95% oxygen) for 72 h. TaqMan low-density array rodent miRNA assays were used to calculate miRNA expression changes between control and hyperoxia groups in neonatal and adult lungs. In neonates, we identified miR-196a, which binds to the 3=-untranslated region of the transcriptional repressor BTB and CNC homology 1 (Bach1) and regulates its expression, and subsequently leads to higher levels of lung HO-1 mRNA compared with levels in adults. Despite the increase at baseline, miR-196a was degraded in hyperoxia resulting in limited HO-1 induction in neonatal mice lungs. Furthermore, the developmental differences in lung HO-1 gene expression can be explained in part by the variation in miRNA-196a and its effect on Bach1. This report is the first to show developmental differences in lung miR-196a and its effect on Bach1 and HO-1 expression at baseline and in hyperoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred hemodialysis vascular access, but it is complicated by high failure rates and attendant morbidity. This study provides the first description of a murine AVF model that recapitulates two salient features of hemodialysis AVFs, namely, anastomosis of end-vein to side-artery to create the AVF and the presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD reduced AVF blood flow, observed as early as 3 days after AVF creation, and increased neointimal hyperplasia, venous wall thickness, thrombus formation, and vasculopathic gene expression in the AVF. These adverse effects of CKD could not be ascribed to preexisting alterations in blood pressure or vascular reactivity in this CKD model. In addition to vasculopathic genes, CKD induced potentially vasoprotective genes in the AVF such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and HO-2. To determine whether prior HO-1 upregulation may protect in this model, we upregulated HO-1 by adeno-associated viral gene delivery, achieving marked venous induction of the HO-1 protein and HO activity. Such HO-1 upregulation improved AVF blood flow and decreased venous wall thickness in the AVF. Finally, we demonstrate that the administration of carbon monoxide, a product of HO, acutely increased AVF blood flow. This study thus demonstrates: 1) the feasibility of a clinically relevant murine AVF model created in the presence of CKD and involving an end-vein to side-artery anastomosis; 2) the exacerbatory effect of CKD on clinically relevant features of this model; and 3) the beneficial effects in this model conferred by HO-1 upregulation by adeno-associated viral gene delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a cytoprotective enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of heme to biliverdin, carbon monoxide, and iron. The beneficial effects of HO-1 expression are not merely due to degradation of the pro-oxidant heme but are also credited to the by-products that have potent, protective effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and prosurvival properties. This is well reflected in the preclinical animal models of injury in both renal and nonrenal settings. However, excessive accumulation of the by-products can be deleterious and lead to mitochondrial toxicity and oxidative stress. Therefore, use of the HO system in alleviating injury merits a targeted approach. Based on the higher susceptibility of the proximal tubule segment of the nephron to injury, we generated transgenic mice using cre-lox technology to enable manipulation of HO-1 (deletion or overexpression) in a cell-specific manner. We demonstrate the validity and feasibility of these mice by breeding them with proximal tubule-specific Cre transgenic mice. Similar to previous reports using chemical modulators and global transgenic mice, we demonstrate that whereas deletion of HO-1, specifically in the proximal tubules, aggravates structural and functional damage during cisplatin nephrotoxicity, selective overexpression of HO-1 in proximal tubules is protective. At the cellular level, cleaved caspase-3 expression, a marker of apoptosis, and p38 signaling were modulated by HO-1. Use of these transgenic mice will aid in the evaluation of the effects of cell-specific HO-1 expression in response to injury and assist in the generation of targeted approaches that will enhance recovery with reduced, unwarranted adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1)/carbon monoxide (CO) system induces mitochondrial biogenesis, but its biological impact in human skeletal muscle is uncertain. The enzyme system generates CO, which stimulates mitochondrial proliferation in normal muscle. Here we examined whether CO breathing can be used to produce a coordinated metabolic and vascular response in human skeletal muscle. In 19 healthy subjects, we performed vastus lateralis muscle biopsies and tested one-legged maximal O2 uptake (...) before and after breathing air or CO (200 ppm) for 1 h daily for 5 days. In response to CO, there was robust HO-1 induction along with increased mRNA levels for nuclear-encoded mitochondrial transcription factor A (Tfam), cytochrome c, cytochrome oxidase subunit IV (COX IV), and mitochondrial-encoded COX I and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (NDI). CO breathing did not increase ... (1.96 ± 0.51 pre-CO, 1.87 ± 0.50 post-CO l/min; P = not significant) but did increase muscle citrate synthase, mitochondrial density (139.0 ± 34.9 pre-CO, 219.0 ± 36.2 post-CO; no. of mitochondrial profiles/field), myoglobin content and glucose transporter (GLUT4) protein level and led to GLUT4 localization to the myocyte membrane, all consistent with expansion of the tissue O2 transport system. These responses were attended by increased cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31)-positive muscle capillaries (1.78 ± 0.16 pre-CO, 2.37 ± 0.59 post-CO; capillaries/muscle fiber), implying the enrichment of microvascular O2 reserve. The findings support that induction of the HO-1/CO system by CO not only improves muscle mitochondrial density, but regulates myoglobin content, GLUT4 localization, and capillarity in accordance with current concepts of skeletal muscle plasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme oxygenase (HO) is a renoprotective protein in the microsome that degrades heme and produces biliverdin. Biliverdin is then reduced to a potent antioxidant bilirubin by biliverdin reductase in the cytosol. Because HO activity does not necessarily correlate with HO mRNA or protein levels, a reliable assay is needed to determine HO activity. Spectrophotometric measurement is tedious and requires a relatively large amount of kidney samples. Moreover, bilirubin is unstable and spontaneously oxidized to biliverdin in vitro. We developed a novel and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/ MS) method to quantify biliverdin to measure HO activity in mice. Biliverdin and its internal standard, a deuterated biliverdin-d4, have MS/MS fragments with m/z transitions of 583 to 297 and 587 to 299, respectively. We prepared lysates of mouse kidneys, and added excess hemin, NADPH, and bilirubin oxidase to convert all bilirubin produced to biliverdin. After 30-min incubation at 37 or 4°C, the samples were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The difference in the amount of biliverdin between the two temperatures is HO activity. Treating mice with cobalt protoporphyrin, which induces the expression of HO, increased HO activity as determined by biliverdin production. Measuring the production of biliverdin using LC-MS/MS is a more sensitive and specific way to determine HO activity than the spectrophotometric method and allows the detection of subtle changes in renal or other HO activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preterm infants often require supplemental oxygen due to lung immaturity, but hyperoxia can contribute to an increased risk of respiratory illness later in life. Our aim was to compare the effects of mild and moderate levels of neonatal hyperoxia on markers of pulmonary oxidative stress and inflammation and on lung architecture; both immediate and persistent effects were assessed. Neonatal mice (C57BL6/J) were raised in either room air (21% O2), mild (40% O2), or moderate (65% O2) hyperoxia from birth until postnatal day 7 (P7d). The mice were killed at either P7d (immediate effects) or lived in air until adulthood (P56d, persistent effects). We enumerated macrophages in lung tissue at P7d and immune cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) at P56d. At P7d and P56d, we assessed pulmonary oxidative stress [heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and nitrotyrosine staining] and lung architecture. The data were interrogated for sex differences. At P7d, HO-1 gene expression was greater in the 65% O2 group than in the 21% O2 group. At P56d, the area of nitrotyrosine staining and number of immune cells were greater in the 40% O2 and 65% O2 groups relative to the 21% O2 group. Exposure to 65% O2, but not 40% O2, led to larger alveoli and lower tissue fraction in the short term and to persistently fewer bronchiolar-alveolar attachments. Exposure to 40% O2 or 65% O2 causes persistent increases in pulmonary oxidative stress and immune cells, suggesting chronic inflammation within the adult lung. Unlike 65% O2, 40% O2 does not affect lung architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is required to combat increases in oxidative stress. The chemical compound tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) can downregulate Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), a repressor of Nrf2, thus maintaining the stability of Nrf2. tBHQ can also increase intracellular "free" zinc in human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells. We aim to investigate whether the intracellular free zinc change plays a role in Nrf2 activation. tBHQ exposure dosedependently increases intracellular free zinc concentrations within 30 min in 16HBE cells by mobilizing intracellular zinc pools. Active Nrf2 and the antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) increase at 3 h after tBHQ treatment. Chelating intracellular free zinc with tetrakis-(2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN) during tBHQ exposure partially abrogates the tBHQ-induced activation of Nrf2 and HO-1 expression, while Keap1 is further decreased. These results indicate that tBHQ-induced stability of Nrf2 is associated with the intracellular free zinc level. Because the activated Nrf2 is phosphorylated, the serine/threonine protein phosphatase activity, which is known to be inhibited by zinc, is assayed. The results showed that tBHQ treatment can suppress cellular protein phosphatase-2A (PP2A) and protein phosphatase-2C (PP2C) activity, which can be abrogated by adding TPEN. This finding is verified in a cell-free protein extract experiment by supplying zinc or by chelating zinc with TPEN. These results provide a novel mechanistic insight into Nrf2 activation in antioxidant enzyme induction involving zinc signaling. The increase of intracellular free zinc may be one mechanism for Nrf2 activation. The inhibition of PP2A and PP2C activity may be involved in Nrf2 phosphorylation modulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary exposure to cadmium, a major component of cigarette smoke, has a dramatic impact on lung function and the development of emphysema. Cigarette smoke exposure induces heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a cytoprotective enzyme. In this study, we employed a truncated mouse model of emphysema by intratracheal instillation of cadmium (CdCl2) solution (0.025% per 1 mg/kg body wt) in HO-1+/+, HO-1-/-, and overexpressing humanized HO-1 bacterial artificial chromosome (hHO-1BAC) mice. We evaluated the role of HO-1 in cadmium-induced emphysema in mice by analyzing histopathology, micro-computed tomography scans, and lung function tests. CdCl2-exposed HO-1-/- mice exhibited more severe emphysema compared with HO-1+/+ or hHO-1BAC mice. Loss of pulmonary endothelial cells (PECs) from the alveolar capillary membrane is recognized to be a target in emphysema. PECs from HO-1+/+, HO-1-/-, and hHO-1BAC were employed to define the underlying molecular mechanism for the protection from emphysema by HO-1. Electron microscopy, expression of autophagic markers (microtubule-associated protein 1B-light chain 3 II, autophagy protein 5, and Beclin1) and apoptotic marker (cleaved caspase 3) suggested induction of autophagy and apoptosis in PECs after CdCl2 treatment. CdCl2- treated HO-1-/- PECs exhibited downregulation of autophagic markers and significantly increased cleaved caspase 3 expression and activity (~4-fold higher). Moreover, hHO-1BAC PECs demonstrated upregulated autophagy and absence of cleaved caspase 3 expression or activity. Pretreatment of HO-1+/+ PECs with rapamycin induced autophagy and resulted in reduced cell death upon cadmium treatment. Induction of autophagy following CdCl2 treatment was found to be protective from apoptotic cell death. HO-1 induced protective autophagy in PECs and mitigated cadmiuminduced emphysema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) can cause hepatocellular injury associated with the inflammatory response and mitochondrial dysfunction. We studied the protective effects of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor cilostazol in hepatic I/R and the roles of mitochondria and the Nrf2/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) system. Wild-type, Hmox1-/-, or Nrf2-/- mice were subjected to hepatic I/R in the absence or presence of cilostazol followed by measurements of liver injury. Primary hepatocytes were subjected to cilostazol with the HO-1 inhibitor ZnPP, or Nrf2-specific siRNA, followed by assessment of mitochondrial biogenesis. Preconditioning with cilostazol prior to hepatic I/R protected against hepatocellular injury and mitochondrial dysfunction. Cilostazol reduced the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, TNF-α, and liver myeloperoxidase content relative to control I/Rtreated mice. In primary hepatocytes, cilostazol increased the expression of HO-1, and markers of mitochondrial biogenesis, PGC-1α, NRF-1, and TFAM, induced the mitochondrial proteins COX III and COX IV and increased mtDNA and mitochondria content. Pretreatment of primary hepatocytes with ZnPP inhibited cilostazol-induced PGC-1α, NRF-1, and TFAM mRNA expression and reduced mtDNA and mitochondria content. Genetic silencing of Nrf2 prevented the induction of HO-1 and mitochondrial biogenesis by cilostazol in HepG2 cells. Cilostazol induced hepatic HO-1 production and mitochondrial biogenesis in wild-type mice, but not in Hmox1-/- or Nrf2-/- mice, and failed to protect against liver injury in Nrf2-/- mice. These results suggest that I/R injury can impair hepatic mitochondrial function, which can be reversed by cilostazol treatment. These results also suggest that cilostazol-induced mitochondrial biogenesis was mediated by an Nrf-2- and HO-1-dependent pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examined the heme oxygenase (HO) system in an in vivo murine model of pathological shear stress induced by partial carotid artery ligation. In this model, along with upregulation of vasculopathic genes, HO-1 is induced in the endothelium and adventitia, whereas HO-2 is mainly upregulated in the endothelium. Within minutes of ligation, NF-κB, a transcription factor that upregulates vasculopathic genes and HO-1, is activated. Failure to express either HO-1 or HO-2 exaggerates the reduction in carotid blood flow and exacerbates vascular injury. After artery ligation, comparable induction of HO-2 occurred in HO-1(+/+) and HO-1(-/-) mice, whereas HO-1 induction was exaggerated in HO-2(-/-) mice compared with HO-2(+/+) mice. Upregulation of HO-1 by an adeno-associated viral vector increased vascular HO-1 expression and HO activity and augmented blood flow in both ligated and contralateral carotid arteries. Acute inhibition of HO activity decreased flow in the ligated carotid artery, whereas a product of HO, carbon monoxide (CO), delivered by CO-releasing molecule-3, increased carotid blood flow. In conclusion, in the partial carotid artery ligation model of pathological shear stress, this study provides the first demonstration of 1) upregulation and vasoprotective effects of HO-1 and HO-2 and the vasorelaxant effects of CO as well as 2) vascular upregulation of HO-1 in vivo by an adeno-associated viral vector that is attended by a salutary vascular response. Induction of HO-1 may reside in NF-κB activation, and, along with induced HO-2, such upregulation of HO-1 provides a countervailing vasoprotective response in pathological shear stress in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been suggested that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress facilitates fibrotic remodeling. Therefore, modulation of ER stress may serve as one of the possible therapeutic approaches to renal fibrosis. We examined whether and how activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) suppressed ER stress induced by chemical ER stress inducers [tunicamycin (TM) and thapsigargin (TG)] and also nonchemical inducers in tubular HK-2 cells. We further investigated the in vivo effects of AMPK on ER stress and renal fibrosis. Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence, small interfering (si)RNA experiments, and immunohistochemical staining were performed. Metformin (the best known clinical activator of AMPK) suppressed TM- or TG-induced ER stress, as shown by the inhibition of TM- or TG-induced upregulation of glucose-related protein (GRP)78 and phosphorylated eukaryotic initiation factor-2a through induction of heme oxygenase-1. Metformin inhibited TM- or TG-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transitions as well. Compound C (AMPK inhibitor) blocked the effect of metformin, and 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1ß riboside (another AMPK activator) exerted the same effects as metformin. Transfection with siRNA targeting AMPK blocked the effect of metformin. Consistent with the results of cell culture experiments, metformin reduced renal cortical GRP78 expression and increased heme oxygenase- 1 expression in a mouse model of ER stress-induced acute kidney injury by TM. Activation of AMPK also suppressed ER stress by transforming growth factor-ß, ANG II, aldosterone, and high glucose. Furthermore, metformin reduced GRP78 expression and renal fibrosis in a mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction. In conclusion, AMPK may serve as a promising therapeutic target through reducing ER stress and renal fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recruiting polymorphonuclear neutrophil granulocytes (PMNs) from circulation and bone marrow to the site of inflammation is one of the pivotal mechanisms of the innate immune system. During inflammation, the enzyme heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) has been shown to reduce PMN migration. Although these effects have been described in various models, underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Recent studies revealed an influence of HO-1 on different cells of the bone marrow. We investigated the particular role of the bone marrow in terms of HO-1-dependent pulmonary inflammation. In a murine model of LPS inhalation, stimulation of HO-1 by cobalt (III) protoporphyrin-IXchloride (CoPP) resulted in reduced segmented PMN migration into the alveolar space. In the CoPP group, segmented PMNs were also decreased intravascularly, and concordantly, mature and immature PMN populations were higher in the bone marrow. Inhibition of the enzyme by tin protoporphyrin-IX increased segmented and banded PMN migration into the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid with enhanced PMN release from the bone marrow and aggravated parameters of tissue inflammation. Oxidative burst activity was significantly higher in immature compared with mature PMNs. The chemokine stromalderived factor-1 (SDF-1), which mediates homing of leukocytes into the bone marrow and is decreased in inflammation, was increased by CoPP. When SDF-1 was blocked by the specific antagonist AMD3100, HO-1 activation was no longer effective in curbing PMN trafficking to the inflamed lungs. In conclusion, we show evidence that the anti-inflammatory effects of HO-1 are largely mediated by inhibiting the release of segmented PMNs from the bone marrow rather than direct effects within the lung. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A compromise in the internal anal sphincter (IAS) tone and fibroelastic properties (FEP) plays an important role in rectoanal incontinence. Herein, we examined the effects of heme oxygenase (HO)-1 upregulation on these IAS characteristics in young rats. We determined the effect of HO-1 upregulator hemin on HO-1 mRNA and protein expressions and on basal IAS tone and its FEP before and after HO-1 inhibitor tin protoporphyrin IX. For FEP, we determined the kinetics of the IAS smooth muscle responses, by the velocities of relaxation, and recovery of the IAS tone following 0 Ca2+ and electrical field stimulation. To characterize the underlying signal transduction for these changes, we determined the effects of hemin on RhoA-associated kinase (RhoA)/Rho kinase (ROCK) II, myosin-binding subunit of myosin light chain phosphatase 1, fibronectin, and elastin expression levels. Hemin increased HO-1 mRNA and protein similar to the increases in the basal tone, and in the FEP of the IAS. Underlying mechanisms in the IAS characteristics are associated with increases in the genetic and translational expressions of RhoA/ROCKII, and elastin. Fibronectin expression levels on the other hand were found to be decreased following HO-1 upregulation. The results of our study show that the hemin/HO-1 system regulates the tone and FEP of IAS. The hemin/HO-1 system thus provides a potential target for the development of new interventions aimed at treatment of gastrointestinal motility disorders, specifically the age-related IAS dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preeclampsia is thought to arise from inadequate cytotrophoblast migration and invasion of the maternal spiral arteries, resulting in placental ischemia and hypertension. Evidence suggests that altered expression of epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) proteins may be a contributing mechanism for impaired cytotrophoblast migration. ENaC activity is required for normal cytotrophoblast migration. Moreover, β-ENaC, the most robustly expressed placental ENaC message, is reduced in placentas from preeclamptic women. We recently demonstrated that heme oxygenase- 1 (HO-1) protects against hypertension in a rat model of placental ischemia; however, whether HO-1 regulation of β-ENaC contributes to the beneficial effects of HO-1 is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether β-ENaC mediates cytotrophoblast migration and whether HO-1 enhances ENaC-mediated migration. We showed that placental ischemia, induced by reducing uterine perfusion suppressed, and HO-1 induction restored, β-ENaC expression in ischemic placentas. Using an in vitro model, we found that HO-1 induction, using cobalt protoporphyrin, stimulates cytotrophoblast β-ENaC expression by 1.5- and 1.8-fold (10 and 50 μM). We then showed that silencing of β-ENaC in cultured cytotrophoblasts (BeWo cells), by expression of dominant-negative constructs, reduced migration to 56 ± 13% (P < 0.05) of control. Importantly, HO-1 induction enhanced migration (43 ± 5% of control, P < 0.05), but the enhanced migratory response was entirely blocked by ENaC inhibition with amiloride (10 μM). Taken together, our results suggest that β-ENaC mediates cytotrophoblast migration and increasing β-ENaC expression by HO-1 induction enhances migration. HO-1 regulation of cytotrophoblast β-ENaC expression and migration may be a potential therapeutic target in preeclamptic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a lung disease of prematurely born infants, is characterized in part by arrested development of pulmonary alveolae. We hypothesized that heme oxygenase (HO-1) and its byproduct carbon monoxide (CO), which are thought to be cytoprotective against redox stress, mitigate lung injury and alveolar simplification in hyperoxia-exposed neonatal mice, a model of BPD. Three-day-old C57BL/6J mice were exposed to air or hyperoxia (FIO2, 75%) in the presence or absence of inhaled CO (250 ppm for 1 h twice daily) for 21 days. Hyperoxic exposure increased mean linear intercept, a measure of alveolar simplification, whereas CO treatment attenuated hypoalveolarization, yielding a normal-appearing lung. Conversely, HO-1-null mice showed exaggerated hyperoxia-induced hypoalveolarization. CO also inhibited hyperoxia- induced pulmonary accumulation of F4/80+, CD11c+, and CD11b+ monocytes and Gr-1+ neutrophils. Furthermore, CO attenuated lung mRNA and protein expression of proinflammatory cytokines, including the monocyte chemoattractant CCL2 in vivo, and decreased hyperoxia-induced type I alveolar epithelial cell CCL2 production in vitro. Hyperoxia-exposed CCL2-null mice, like COtreated mice, showed attenuated alveolar simplification and lung infiltration of CD11b+ monocytes, consistent with the notion that CO blocks lung epithelial cell cytokine production. We conclude that, in hyperoxia-exposed neonatal mice, inhalation of CO suppresses inflammation and alveolar simplification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme oxygenase (HO) converts heme to carbon monoxide, bilirubin, and free iron. The present study investigated whether or not HO-1 induction improves vascular relaxations attributable to endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH). Thirty-six-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats were treated with the HO-1 inducer hemin, the HO inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin IX (II) (ZnPP), the antioxidant apocynin, or combinations of these compounds. Isolated mesenteric arteries were prepared for measurement of isometric tension, protein presence, and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Hemin potentiated acetylcholine-evoked EDH-type relaxations in the presence of Nω- nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) and indomethacin, while the combined treatment with ZnPP plus hemin prevented these improvements. The intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel (IKCa) blocker TRAM-34 and the Na+-K+-ATPase blocker ouabain significantly impaired these hemin-potentiated relaxations. NS309-induced TRAM-34- and ouabain-sensitive relaxations were enhanced by hemin. K+-induced ouabain-sensitive relaxations and the expression of Na+-K+-ATPase were increased by hemin. Thus HO-1 induction improves EDH-type relaxations by augmented activation of IKCa and the downstream Na+-K+-ATPase. Treatment with apocynin showed a similar effect as hemin in impairing ROS production, enhancing K+-induced relaxations, and increasing Na+-K+-ATPase expression, without affecting the expression of HO-1. The effects of hemin and apocynin were not additive. These observations suggest that the effect of HO-1 induction on EDH-type relaxations is possibly due to its antioxidant properties. In vitro treatment with bilirubin, but not carbon monoxide, enhanced EDH-type relaxations and K+-induced ouabainsensitive relaxations, suggesting that the production of bilirubin may be also involved. The present findings reveal that HO-1 may be a potential vascular-specific therapeutic strategy for endothelial dysfunction in hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme oxygenase-2 (HO-2), the constitutive isoform of the heme-degrading enzyme heme oxygenase, may serve as an anti-inflammatory vasorelaxant, in part, by generating carbon monoxide. Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are employed as hemodialysis vascular accesses becausethey provide an accessible, high-blood-flow vascular segment. We examined the role of vascular expression of HO-2 in AVF function. An AVF was created in mice by anastomosing the carotid artery to the jugular vein. HO-2 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry in the intact carotid artery, mainly in endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells; expression of HO-2 protein and mRNA was modestly increased in the artery of the AVF. Creating an AVF in HO-2-/- mice compared with an AVF in HO-2+/+ mice led to markedly reduced AVF blood flow and increased numbers of nonfunctioning AVFs. The impairment of AVF function in the setting of HO-2 deficiency could not be ascribed to either preexisting intrinsic abnormalities in endothelium- dependent and endothelium-independent relaxation of the carotid artery in HO-2-deficient mice or to impaired vasorelaxant responses in the intact carotid artery in vivo. HO-1 mRNA was comparably induced in the AVF in HO-2+/+ and HO-2-/- mice, whereas the AVF in HO-2-/- mice compared with that in HO-2+/+ mice exhibited exaggerated induction of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 but similar induction of MMP-2. HO-2 deficiency also led to lower AVF blood flow when AVFs were created in uremia, the latter induced by subtotal nephrectomy. We conclude that HO-2 critically contributes to the adequacy of AVF blood flow and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously we have shown that, unlike wild-type mice (WT), heme oxygenase-1 knockout (HO-1-/-) mice developed nitrate tolerance and were not protected from inflammation caused by ischemiareperfusion (I/R) when preconditioned with a H2S donor. We hypothesized that stimulation (with BAY 41-2272) or activation (with BAY 60-2770) of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) would precondition HO-1-/- mice against an inflammatory effect of I/R and increase arterial nitrate responses. Intravital fluorescence microscopy was used to visualize leukocyte rolling and adhesion to postcapillary venules of the small intestine in anesthetized mice. Relaxation to ACh and BAY compounds was measured on superior mesenteric arteries isolated after I/R protocols. Preconditioning with either BAY compound 10 min (early phase) or 24 h (late phase) before I/R reduced postischemic leukocyte rolling and adhesion to sham control levels and increased superior mesenteric artery responses to ACh, sodium nitroprusside, and BAY 41-2272 in WT and HO-1-/- mice. Late-phase preconditioning with BAY 60-2770 was maintained in HO-1-/- and endothelial nitric oxide synthase knockout mice pretreated with an inhibitor (DL-propargylglycine) of enzymatically produced H2S. Pretreatment with BAY compounds also prevented the I/R increase in small intestinal TNF. We speculate that increasing sGC activity and related PKG acts downstream to H2S and disrupts signaling processes triggered by I/R in part by maintaining low cellular Ca2. In addition, BAY preconditioning did not increase sGC levels, yet increased the response to agents that act on reduced heme-containing sGC. Collectively these actions would contribute to increased nitrate sensitivity and vascular function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria are both a source and target of the actions of reactive oxygen species and possess a complex system of inter-related antioxidants that control redox signaling and protect against oxidative stress. Interestingly, the antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is not present in the mitochondria despite the fact that the organelle is the site of heme synthesis and contains multiple heme proteins. Detoxification of heme is an important protective mechanism since the reaction of heme with hydrogen peroxide generates pro-oxidant ferryl species capable of propagating oxidative stress and ultimately cell death. We therefore hypothesized that a mitochondrially localized HO-1 would be cytoprotective. To test this, we generated a mitochondria-targeted HO-1 cell line by transfecting HEK293 cells with a plasmid construct containing the manganese superoxide dismutase mitochondria leader sequence fused to HO-1 cDNA (Mito-HO-1). Nontargeted HO-1- overexpressing cells were generated by transfecting HO-1 cDNA (HO-1) or empty vector (Vector). Mitochondrial localization of HO-1 with increased HO activity in the mitochondrial fraction of Mito- HO-1 cells was observed, but a significant decrease in the expression of heme-containing proteins occurred in these cells. Both cytosolic HO-1- and Mito-HO-1-expressing cells were protected against hypoxiadependent cell death and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, but these effects were more pronounced with Mito-HO-1. Furthermore, decrement in production of tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates following hypoxia was significantly mitigated in Mito-HO-1 cells. These data suggest that specific mitochondrially targeted HO-1 under acute pathological conditions may have beneficial effects, but the selective advantage of long-term expression is constrained by a negative impact on the synthesis of heme-containing mitochondrial proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endothelial cells (ECs) are constantly subjected to cyclic strain that arises from periodic change in vessel wall diameter as a result of pulsatile blood flow. Application of physiological levels of cyclic strain inhibits EC apoptosis; however, the underlying mechanism is not known. Since heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a potent inhibitor of apoptosis, the present study investigated whether HO-1 contributes to the antiapoptotic action of cyclic strain. Administration of physiological cyclic strain (6% at 1 Hz) to human aortic ECs stimulated an increase in HO-1 activity, protein, and mRNA expression. The induction of HO-1 was preceded by a rise in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Nrf2 protein expression. Cyclic strain also stimulated an increase in HO-1 promoter activity that was prevented by mutating the antioxidant responsive element in the promoter or by overexpressing dominant-negative Nrf2. In addition, the strain-mediated induction of HO-1 and activation of Nrf2 was abolished by the antioxidant Nacetyl- L-cysteine. Finally, application of cyclic strain blocked inflammatory cytokine-mediated EC death and apoptosis. However, the protective action of cyclic strain was reversed by the HO inhibitor tin protoporphyrin-IX and was absent in ECs isolated from HO-1-deficient mice. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that a hemodynamically relevant level of cyclic strain stimulates HO-1 gene expression in ECs via the ROS-Nrf2 signaling pathway to inhibit EC death. The ability of cyclic strain to induce HO-1 expression may provide an important mechanism by which hemodynamic forces promote EC survival and vascular homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is typified by mucosal destruction, which subsequently can lead to intestinal necrosis. Prematurity, enteral feeding, and bacterial colonization are the main risk factors and, combined with other stressors, can cause increased intestinal permeability, injury, and an exaggerated inflammatory response. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) mediates intestinal protection due to anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic effects of its products carbon monoxide, biliverdin, and bilirubin. This study investigates a possible role of HO-1 in the pathogenesis of NEC using a newborn mouse model. We induced NEC-like intestinal injury in 7-day-old HO-1 heterozygous (HO-1 Het, Hmox1+/-) and wild-type (Wt, Hmox1+/+) mice by gavage feeding and hypoxic exposures. Control (Con) pups of both genotypes were dam-fed. Intestines of HO-1 Het Con pups appeared predisposed to injury, with higher histological damage scores, more TUNEL-positive cells, and a significant reduction in muscularis externa thickness compared with Wt Con pups. The increase in HO activity after HO-1 induction by the substrate heme or by hypoxic stress was significantly impaired in HO-1 Het pups. After induction of intestinal injury, HO-1 Het pups displayed significantly higher NEC incidence (78 vs. 43%), mortality (83 vs. 54%), and median scores (2.5 vs. 1.5) than Wt NEC pups. PCR array analyses revealed increased expressions of IL-1β, P-selectin, matrix metallopeptidase 2, collagen type XVIII-α1, serpine 1, and others in NEC-induced HO-1 Het ileal and jejunal tissues. We conclude that a partial HO-1 deficiency promotes experimental NEC-like intestinal injury, possibly mediated by exaggerated inflammation and disruption in tissue repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperoxic lung injury is a major concern in critically ill patients who receive high concentrations of oxygen to treat lung diseases. Successful abrogation of hyperoxic lung injury would have a huge impact on respiratory and critical care medicine. Hydrogen can be administered as a therapeutic medical gas. We recently demonstrated that inhaled hydrogen reduced transplant-induced lung injury and induced heme oxygenase (HO)-1. To determine whether hydrogen could reduce hyperoxic lung injury and investigate the underlying mechanisms, we randomly assigned rats to four experimental groups and administered the following gas mixtures for 60 h: 98% oxygen (hyperoxia), 2% nitrogen; 98% oxygen (hyperoxia), 2% hydrogen; 98% balanced air (normoxia), 2% nitrogen; and 98% balanced air (normoxia), 2% hydrogen. We examined lung function by blood gas analysis, extent of lung injury, and expression of HO-1. We also investigated the role of NF-E2-related factor (Nrf) 2, which regulates HO-1 expression, by examining the expression of Nrf2-dependent genes and the ability of hydrogen to reduce hyperoxic lung injury in Nrf2-deficient mice. Hydrogen treatment during exposure to hyperoxia significantly improved blood oxygenation, reduced inflammatory events, and induced HO-1 expression. Hydrogen did not mitigate hyperoxic lung injury or induce HO-1 in Nrf2-deficient mice. These findings indicate that hydrogen gas can ameliorate hyperoxic lung injury through induction of Nrf2-dependent genes, such as HO-1. The findings suggest a potentially novel and applicable solution to hyperoxic lung injury and provide new insight into the molecular mechanisms and actions of hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used the patch-clamp technique to examine the role of carbon monoxide (CO) in regulating Ca2⁺-activated big-conductance K (BK) channels in the principal cell of the cortical collecting duct (CCD). Application of CORM3 or CORM2, a CO donor, activated BK channels in the CCD, whereas adding inactivated CORM2/3 had no effect. Superfusion of the CCD with CO-bubbled bath solution also activated the BK channels in the cell-attached patches. The effect of CO on BK channels was not dependent on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) because the effect of CORM3 was also observed in the CCD treated with L-NAME, an agent that inhibits the NOS. Adding a membranepermeable cGMP analog, 8-bromo-cGMP, significantly increased the BK channel in the CCD. However, inhibition of soluble guanylate cyclase failed to abolish the stimulatory effect of CORM3 on BK channels. Moreover, inhibition of cGMP-dependent protein kinase G did not block the stimulatory effect of CORM3 on the BK channels, suggesting that the stimulatory effect of CO on the BK channels was, at least partially, induced by a cGMP-independent mechanism. Western blot demonstrated that heme oxygenase type 1 (HO-1) and HO-2 were expressed in the kidney. Moreover, a high-K (HK) intake increased the expression of HO-1 but not HO-2 in the kidney. A HK intake also increased renal HO activity defined by NADPH-dependent CO generation following addition of heme in the cell lysate from renal cortex and outer medulla. The role of HO in regulating BK channel activity in the CCD was also suggested by experiments in which application of hemin increased the BK channels. The stimulatory effect of hemin on the BK channels was blocked by SnMP, a HO inhibitor. But, adding CORM3 was still able to activate the BK channels in the presence of SnMP. We conclude that CO activates the BK channels, at least partially, through a NO-cGMP-independent pathway and that HO plays a role in mediating the effect of HK intake on the BK channels in the CCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme-Fe is an important source of dietary iron in humans; however, the mechanism for heme-Fe uptake by enterocytes is poorly understood. Heme carrier protein 1 (HCP1) was originally identified as mediating heme-Fe transport although it later emerged that it was a folate transporter. We asked what happened to heme-Fe and folate uptake and the relative abundance of hcp1 and ho1 mRNA in Caco-2 cells after knockdown by transfection with HCP1-directed short hairpin (sh)RNA. Control Caco-2 cells were cultured in bicameral chambers with 0-80 μM heme-Fe for selected times. Intracellular Fe and heme concentration increased in Caco-2 cells reflecting higher external heme-Fe concentrations. Maximum Fe, heme, and heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) expression and activity were observed between 12 and 24 h of incubation. Quantitative RT-PCR for hcp1 revealed that its mRNA decreased at 20 μM heme-Fe while ho1 mRNA and activity increased. When shRNA knocked down hcp1 mRNA, heme-55Fe uptake and [3H]folate transport mirrored the mRNA decrease, ho1 mRNA increased, and flvcr mRNA was unchanged. These data argue that HCP1 is involved in low-affinity heme-Fe uptake not just in folate transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In newborn pigs, vasodilation of pial arterioles in response to glutamate is mediated via carbon monoxide (CO), a gaseous messenger endogenously produced from heme degradation by a heme oxygenase (HO)- catalyzed reaction. We addressed the hypothesis that ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), including N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)- and 2-amino-3-(5-methyl-3-oxo-1,2-oxazol-4-yl) propanoic acid (AMPA)/kainate-type receptors, expressed in cortical astrocytes mediate glutamate-induced astrocyte HO activation that leads to cerebral vasodilation. Acute vasoactive effects of topical iGluR agonists were determined by intravital microscopy using closed cranial windows in anesthetized newborn pigs. iGluR agonists, including NMDA, (±)1- aminocyclopentane-cis-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (cis-ACPD), AMPA, and kainate, produced pial arteriolar dilation. Topical L-2-aminoadipic acid, a gliotoxin that selectively disrupts glia limitans, reduced vasodilation caused by iGluR agonists, but not by hypercapnia, bradykinin, or sodium nitroprusside. In freshly isolated and cultured cortical astrocytes constitutively expressing HO-2, iGluR agonists NMDA, cis-ACPD, AMPA, and kainate rapidly increased CO production twoto threefold. Astrocytes overexpressing inducible HO-1 had high baseline CO but were less sensitive to glutamate stimulation of CO production when compared with HO-2-expressing astrocytes. Glutamate- induced astrocyte HO-2-mediated CO production was inhibited by either the NMDA receptor antagonist (R)-3C4HPG or the AMPA/ kainate receptor antagonist DNQX. Accordingly, either antagonist abolished pial arteriolar dilation in response to glutamate, NMDA, and AMPA, indicating functional interaction among various subtypes of astrocytic iGluRs in response to glutamate stimulation. Overall, these data indicate that the astrocyte component of the neurovascular unit is responsible for the vasodilation response of pial arterioles to topically applied glutamate via iGluRs that are functionally linked to activation of constitutive HO in newborn piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arachidonic acid (AA) and prostaglandin (PG) E2 stimulate carbon monoxide (CO) production, and AA metabolism is known to be associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study was conducted to address the hypothesis that CO and/or ROS mediate cerebrovascular dilation in newborn pigs. Experiments were performed on anesthetized newborn pigs with closed cranial windows. Different concentrations of AA (10-8-10-6 M), PGE2 (10-8-10-6 M), iloprost (10-8-10-6 M), and their vehicle (artificial cerebrospinal fluid) were given. Piglets with PGE2 and iloprost received indomethacin (5 mg/kg iv) to inhibit cyclooxygenase. AA, PGE2, and iloprost caused concentration-dependent increases in pial arteriolar diameter. The effects of both AA and PGE2 in producing cerebral vascular dilation and associated CO production were blocked by the heme oxygenase inhibitor chromium mesoporphyrin (2 × 10-5 M), but not by the prostacyclin analog, iloprost. ROS inhibitor tempol (SOD mimetic) (1 × 10-5 M) and the H2O2 scavenger catalase (1,000 U/ml) also do not block these vasodilator effects of AA and PGE2. Heme-l-lysinate-induced cerebrovascular dilation and CO production was blocked by chromium mesoporphyrin. Hypoxanthine plus xanthine oxidase, a combination that is known to generate ROS, caused pial arteriolar dilation and CO production that was inhibited by tempol and catalase. These data suggest that AA- and PGE2-induced cerebral vascular dilation is mediated by CO, independent of ROS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is induced by oxidative stress and plays an important role in protecting the kidney from oxidant-mediated damage in the streptozotocin (STZ) rat model of type-1 diabetes mellitus (DM-1). HO-derived metabolites, presumably carbon monoxide (CO), mediate vasodilatory influences in the renal circulation, particularly in conditions linked to elevated HO-1 protein expression or diminished nitric oxide (NO) levels. We tested the hypothesis that diabetes increases oxidative stress and induces HO-1 protein expression, which contributes to regulate renal hemodynamics in conditions of low NO bioavailability. Two weeks after the induction of diabetes with STZ (65 mg/kg iv), Sprague-Dawley rats exhibited higher renal HO-1 protein expression, hyperglycemia, and elevated renal nitrotyrosine levels than control normoglycemic animals. In anesthetized diabetic rats, renal vascular resistance (RVR) was increased, and in vivo cortical NO levels were reduced (P < 0.05) compared with control animals. Acute administration of the HO inhibitor Stannous mesoporphyrin (SnMP; 40 μmol/kg iv) did not alter renal hemodynamics in control rats, but greatly decreased glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow, markedly increasing RVR in hyperglycemic diabetic rats. Chronic oral treatment with the SOD mimetic tempol prevented the elevation of nitrotyrosine, the HO-1 protein induction, and the increases in RVR induced by SnMP in the diabetic group, without altering basal NO concentrations or RVR. Increasing concentrations of a CO donor (CO-releasing molecule-A1) on pressurized renal interlobar arteries elicited a comparable relaxation in vessels taken from control or diabetic animals. These results suggest that oxidative stress-induced HO-1 exerts vasodilatory actions that partially maintain renal hemodynamics in uncontrolled DM-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of hemodynamic alterations following the creation of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is relevant to vascular adaptive responses and hemodialysis access dysfunction. This study examined such alterations in a murine AVF created by anastomosing the carotid artery to the jugular vein. AVF blood flow was markedly increased due to reduced AVF vascular resistance. Despite such markedly increased basal blood flow, AVF blood flow further increased in response to acetylcholine. This AVF model exhibited increased cardiac output and decreased systemic vascular resistance; the kidney, in contrast, exhibited decreased blood flow and increased vascular resistance. Augmentation in AVF blood flow was attended by increased arterial heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) mRNA and protein expression, the latter localized to smooth muscle cells of the AVF artery; AVF blood flow was substantially reduced in HO-1-/- mice compared with HO-1+/+ mice. Finally, in a murine model of a representative disease known to exhibit impaired hemodynamic responses (sickle cell disease), the creation of an AVF was attended by decreased AVF flow and impaired AVF function. We conclude that this AVF model exhibits markedly increased AVF blood flow, a vasodilatory reserve capacity, increased cardiac output, decreased renal blood flow, and a dependency on intact hemodynamic responses, in general, and HO-1 expression, in particular, in achieving and maintaining AVF blood flow. We suggest that these findings support the utility of this model in investigating the basis for and the consequences of hemodynamic stress, including shear stress, and the pathobiology of hemodialysis AVF dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We recently demonstrated that preconditioning with an exogenous hydrogen sulfide donor (NaHS-PC) 24 h before ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) causes postcapillary venules to shift to an anti-inflammatory phenotype in C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) mice such that these vessels fail to support increases in postischemic leukocyte rolling (LR) and leukocyte adhesion (LA). The objective of the present study was to determine whether heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a mediator of these anti-inflammatory effects noted during I/R in mice preconditioned with NaHS. Intravital fluorescence microscopy was used to visualize LR and LA in single postcapillary venules of the murine small intestine. I/R induced marked increases in LR and LA, effects that were prevented by NaHS-PC. Treatment with the HO inhibitor tin protoporphyrin IX, but not the inactive protoporphyrin CuPPIX, just before reperfusion prevented the anti-inflammatory effects of antecedent NaHS. The anti-inflammatory effects of NaHS-PC were mimicked by preconditioning with hemin, an agent that induces HO-1 expression. We then evaluated the effect of NaHS as a preconditioning stimulus in mice that were genetically deficient in HO-1 (HO-1-/- on an H129 background with appropriate WT strain controls). NaHS-PC was ineffective in HO-1-/- mice. Our work indicates that HO-1 serves as an effector of the anti-inflammatory effects of NaHS-PC during I/R 24 h later. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glutamate-stimulated, astrocyte-derived carbon monoxide (CO) causes cerebral arteriole dilation by activating smooth muscle cell large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels. Here, we examined the hypothesis that glutamate activates heme oxygenase (HO)-2 and CO production via the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i)/Ca2+-calmodulin signaling pathway in newborn pig astrocytes. The major findings are: 1) glutamate stimulated Ca2+ transients and increased steady-state [Ca2+]i in cerebral cortical astrocytes in primary culture, 2) in astrocytes permeabilized with ionomycin, elevation of [Ca2+]i concentration-dependently increased CO production, 3) glutamate did not affect CO production at any [Ca2+]i when the [Ca2+]i was held constant, 4) thapsigargin, a sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase blocker, decreased basal CO production and blocked glutamate-induced increases in CO, and 5) calmidazolium, a calmodulin inhibitor, blocked CO production induced by glutamate and by [Ca2+]i elevation. Taken together, our data are consistent with the hypothesis that glutamate elevates [Ca2+]i in astrocytes, leading to Ca2+- and calmodulin-dependent HO-2 activation, and CO production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced by heme oxygenase (HO)-catalyzed heme degradation to CO, iron, and biliverdin. HO has two active isoforms, HO-1 (inducible) and HO-2 (constitutive). HO-2, but not HO-1, is highly expressed in endothelial and smooth muscle cells and in adjacent astrocytes in the brain. HO-1 is expressed basally only in the spleen and liver but can be induced to a varying extent in most tissues. Elevating heme, protein phosphorylation, Ca2+ influx, and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent processes increase HO-2 activity. CO dilates cerebral arterioles and may constrict or dilate skeletal muscle and renal arterioles. Selected vasodilatory stimuli, including seizures, glutamatergic stimulation, hypoxia, hypotension, and ADP, increase CO, and the inhibition of HO attenuates the dilation to these stimuli. Astrocytic HO-2-derived CO causes glutamatergic dilation of pial arterioles. CO dilates by activating smooth muscle cell large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channels. CO binds to BKCa channel-bound heme, leading to an increase in Ca2+ sparks-to-BKCa channel coupling. Also, CO may bind directly to the BKCa channel at several locations. Endothelial nitric oxide and prostacyclin interact with HO/CO in circulatory regulation. In cerebral arterioles in vivo, in contrast to dilation to acute CO, a prolonged exposure of cerebral arterioles to elevated CO produces progressive constriction by inhibiting nitric oxide synthase. The HO/CO system is highly protective to the vasculature. CO suppresses apoptosis and inhibits components of endogenous oxidant-generating pathways. Bilirubin is a potent reactive oxygen species scavenger. Still many questions remain about the physiology and biochemistry of HO/CO in the circulatory system and about the function and dysfunction of this gaseous mediator system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme oxygenase (HO) catalyzes the degradation of heme to form iron, biliverdin, and carbon monoxide (CO). The vascular actions of CO include direct vasodilation of vascular smooth muscle and indirect vasoconstriction through inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). This study was performed to examine the effects in the kidney of inhibition of heme oxygenase alone or combined with NOS inhibition. Chromium mesoporphyrin (CrMP; 45 μmol/kg ip), a photostable HO inhibitor, was given to control rats and NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME)-treated hypertensive rats (50 mg∙kg-1∙day-1, 12 h, 4 days). In control animals, CrMP decreased CO levels, renal HO-1 levels, urine volume, and sodium excretion, but had no effect on arterial pressure, renal blood flow (RBF), plasma renin activity (PRA), or glomerular filtration rate (GFR). In l-NAME-treated hypertensive rats, CrMP decreased endogenous CO and renal HO-1 levels and had no effect on arterial pressure, RBF, or GFR but decreased sodium and water excretion in a similar manner to control animals. An increase in PRA was observed in untreated rats but not in l-NAME-infused rats, indicating that this effect is associated with an absent NO system. The results suggest that inhibition of HO promotes water and sodium excretion by a direct tubular action that is independent of renal hemodynamics or the NO system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) is a renal autoregulatory mechanism that constricts the afferent arteriole in response to increases in distal NaCl. Heme oxygenases (HO-1 and HO-2) release carbon monoxide (CO) and biliverdin, which may help control renal function. We showed in vitro that HO products inhibit TGF; however, we do not know whether this also occurs in vivo or the mechanism(s) involved. We hypothesized that in vivo HO-1 and HO-2 in the nephron inhibit TGF via release of CO and biliverdin. We first performed laser capture microdissection followed by real-time PCR and found that both HO-1 and HO-2 are expressed in the macula densa. We next performed micropuncture experiments in vivo on individual rat nephrons, adding different compounds to the perfusate, and found that an HO inhibitor, stannous mesoporphyrin (SnMP), potentiated TGF (P < 0.05, SnMP vs. control). The CO-releasing molecule (CORM)-3 partially inhibited TGF at 50 μmol/l (P < 0.01, CORM-3 vs. control) and blocked it completely at higher doses. A soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) inhibitor, LY83583, blocked the inhibitory effect of CORM-3 on TGF. Biliverdin also partially inhibited TGF (P < 0.01, biliverdin vs. control), most likely attributable to decreased superoxide (O2-) because biliverdin was rendered ineffective by tempol, a O2- dismutase mimetic. We concluded that HO-1 and HO-2 in the nephron inhibit TGF by releasing CO and biliverdin. The inhibitory effect of CO on TGF is mediated by the sGC/cGMP signaling pathway, whereas biliverdin probably acts by reducing O2-. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]