Targeting whole body metabolism and mitochondrial bioenergetics in the drug development for Alzheimer's disease

Aging is by far the most prominent risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), and both aging and AD are associated with apparent metabolic alterations. As developing effective therapeutic interventions to treat AD is clearly in urgent need, the impact of modulating whole-body and intracellular metabolism in preclinical models and in human patients, on disease pathogenesis, have been explored. There is also an increasing awareness of differential risk and potential targeting strategies related to biological sex, microbiome, and circadian regulation. As a major part of intracellular metabolism, mitochondrial bioenergetics, mitochondrial quality-control mechanisms, and mitochondria-linked inflammatory responses have been considered for AD therapeutic interventions. This review summarizes and highlights these efforts.

GC-MS based metabolite profiling and angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory property of black tea extracts

Abstract Angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitors are used as therapeutic agents for the treatment of hypertension. Regular consumption of black tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze, Theaceae) has been reported to lower blood pressure. The aims of the present work were to compare chemical composition and angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory properties of infusion and decoction of four samples of black tea. GC/MS based metabolomics approach helped in identification of fifty-one metabolites including ten organic acids, one inorganic acid, sixteen amino acids, two sugars, five sugar alcohols, fifteen phenols and flavonoids, two fatty acids from infusions and decoctions of four black tea samples. Partial least squares discriminant analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis models showed good classification among the two groups, diffusion and infusion, based on metabolites. Both infusion and decoction inhibited the enzyme. However, the activity differed with samples. Multivariate analysis also segregated extracts on the basis of activity. Thearubigin, theaflavin, catechin inhibited the enzyme. Epicatechin, epigallocatechin gallate, gallic acid, caffeine showed lower activity.

ACE I/D Polymorphism in Brazilian Women with Endometriosis / Polimorfismo ACE I/D em Mulheres Brasileiras com Endometriose

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that displays some features similar to malignancy, such as local invasion, aggressive spread to distant organs and angiogenesis. Polymorphisms of the ACE gene have been linked with some vascular disease. To determine the frequency of the ACE I/D polymorphism in Brazilian patients with endometriosis compared to controls. This case-control study included a total of 134 women (49 endometriosis patients and 85 controls) who had undergone a laparoscopy or laparotomy. Molecular analysis was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). For the statistical analysis, the chi-square and multiple logistic regression tests were used. The I/D ACE genotype frequencies in cases and controls were, respectively: II 16.3% and 16.5%; ID 24.5% and 20%; DD 59.2% and 63.5%. There was no statistically significant difference between cases and controls, either in the genotype frequencies (χ2 = 0.385; p = 0.825) or in the allele frequencies (χ2 = 0.098; p = 0.75) of the ACE I/D polymorphism. However, the genotype distribution was not consistent with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, either in patients (χ2 = 7.84; p = 0.005) or in controls (χ2 = 20.09; p <0.0001). Multiple logistic regression analysis has not shown any differences amongst groups for the polymorphism studied [(OR 1.51; CI 95% 0.52- 4.41); p=0.4523]. Despite of the small sample size, the present study suggests that I/D ACE polymorphism is not related with endometriosis in brazilian patients.(AU)

A endometriose é uma doença ginecológica crônica que apresenta algumas características semelhantes à malignidade, tais como invasão local, disseminação para órgãos distantes e angiogênese. Polimorfismos no gene ACE têm sido relacionados com algumas doenças vasculares. Determinar a frequência do polimorfismo ACE I/D em pacientes brasileiros com endometriose em comparação aos controles. Estudo caso-controle que incluiu um total de 134 mulheres (49 pacientes com endometriose e 85 controles) que se submeteram a uma laparoscopia ou laparotomia. A análise molecular foi realizada por Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR). A análise estatística utilizou os testes de qui-quadrado e regressão logística. As frequências genotípicas ACE I/D em casos e controles foram, respectivamente: II 16,3% e 16,5%; ID 24,5% e 20%; DD 59,2% e 63,5%. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os casos e controles, tanto nas frequências genotípicas (χ2 = 0,385; p = 0,825) ou nas frequências alélicas (χ2 = 0,098; p = 0,75) do polimorfismo ACE I/D. Entretanto, a distribuição genotípica não foi consistente com o equilíbrio de Hardy-Weinberg, tanto nos pacientes (χ2 = 7,84; p = 0,005) ou nos controles (χ2 = 20,09; p <0,0001). A análise de regressão logística não mostrou qualquer diferença entre os grupos para o polimorfismo estudado [(OR 1,51; CI 95% 0,52-4,41); p=0,4523]. Apesar do pequeno número de amostras, o presente estudo mostra que em pacientes brasileiras o polimorfismo ACE I/D não está relacionado com endometriose.(AU)

Effects of hydrolysis and digestion in vitro on the activity of bovine plasma hydrolysates as inhibitors of the angiotensin I converting enzyme

The angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibiting activity of bovine plasma hydrolyzates obtained by Alcalase 2.4 L at different degrees of hydrolysis (DH) was evaluated. For the evaluation of ACE inhibition (ACEI), Hippuryl-His-Leu was used as substrate and the amount of hippuric acid liberated by non-inhibiting ACE was determined by spectrophotometry at 228 nm. The results showed that the enzymatic hydrolysis increased the ACEI activity as compared with the un-hydrolyzed plasma. The highest activity was onbtained with a DH of 6.7%. The peptide fractions with the maximum activity were isolated using ultrafiltration membranes, ion exchange chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography on reverse phase (RP-HPLC). The fraction with highest ACEI activity, showed an IC50 of 0.18 mg/mL and contained peptides with sequences AGATGVTISGAG, YSRRHPEYAVS, Q(K)AW and L(l)I(I)VR, which were determined by MALDI-TOF-TOF. It was also found that after submitting such fraction to digestive conditions in vitro, the ACEI activity remained constant.

Association of Angiotensin-I-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Insertion/Deletion Gene Polymorphism with End Stage Renal Disease in Egyptian Patients.

Angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism has been associated with the genetic susceptibility to end stage renal disease (ESRD) in different populations. ACE DD genotype and D allele are associated with ESRD as risk factors in several studies. In this study, we investigated the association between ACE I/D gene polymorphism and ESRD in the Egyptian patients. Frequencies of D allele and DD genotype were significantly increased, while frequencies of I allele and ID genotype were significantly decreased in the ESRD patients when compared with the control subjects (P = .012, OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.139-2.915 for DD) and (P = .018, OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.082-2.33 for D). In conclusion, ACE DD genotype and D allele are associated with ESRD as risk factors for ESRD in the Egyptian population.

The chronic blockade of angiotensin I-converting enzyme eliminates the sex differences of serum cytokine levels of spontaneously hypertensive rats

Sex hormones modulate the action of both cytokines and the renin-angiotensin system. However, the effects of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) on the proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels in male and female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) are unclear. We determined the relationship between ACE activity, cytokine levels and sex differences in SHR. Female (F) and male (M) SHR were divided into 4 experimental groups each (n = 7): sham + vehicle (SV), sham + enalapril (10 mg/kg body weight by gavage), castrated + vehicle, and castrated + enalapril. Treatment began 21 days after castration and continued for 30 days. Serum cytokine levels (ELISA) and ACE activity (fluorimetry) were measured. Male rats exhibited a higher serum ACE activity than female rats. Castration reduced serum ACE in males but did not affect it in females. Enalapril reduced serum ACE in all groups. IL-10 (FSV = 16.4 ± 1.1 pg/mL; MSV = 12.8 ± 1.2 pg/mL), TNF-α (FSV = 16.6 ± 1.2 pg/mL; MSV = 12.8 ± 1 pg/mL) and IL-6 (FSV = 10.3 ± 0.2 pg/mL; MSV = 7.2 ± 0.2 pg/mL) levels were higher in females than in males. Ovariectomy reduced all cytokine levels and orchiectomy reduced IL-6 but increased IL-10 concentrations in males. Castration eliminated the differences in all inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-6 and TNF-α) between males and females. Enalapril increased IL-10 in all groups and reduced IL-6 in SV rats. In conclusion, serum ACE inhibition by enalapril eliminated the sexual dimorphisms of cytokine levels in SV animals, which suggests that enalapril exerts systemic anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive effects.

Purification and Antihypertensive Activity of a Novel Angiotensin-I Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptide from Fish Sauce, <i>Ishiru</i> / 日本補完代替医療学会誌

We purified a novel angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor from fish sauce <i>Ishiru</i> prepared from squid, and identified it as the tripeptide Leu-Ala-Arg (LAR). IC₅₀ of this ACE inhibitor was 2.5 μM, demonstrating high potency among peptides previously purified from fish sauces. Moreover, LAR acted as an antihypertensive peptide, reducing systolic blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats.<br>

Inhibición de la Enzima Convertidora de Angiotensina I con hidrolizados proteicos de Jatropha curcas / Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme inhibition with protein hydrolysates from Jatropha curcas / Inibição da Enzima Conversora de Angiotensina I com hidrolisados proteicos de Jatropha curcas

Se evaluó la actividad inhibitoria in vitro de los hidrolizados proteínicos obtenidos a partir de la harina desgrasada y del aislado proteínico provenientes del grano de Jatropha curcas L. sobre la actividad de la enzima convertidora de angiotensina I (ECA-1), con la finalidad de emplearlos en un futuro para la formulación de alimentos funcionales. Los hidrolizados fueron obtenidos empleando alcalasa y el sistema enzimático pepsina-pancreatina. Se calculó la concentración media inhibitoria (IC50) para medir el grado de inhibición de la actividad enzimática de ECA-1. Fueron seleccionados los hidrolizados con el menor tiempo de hidrólisis (60 min) para evaluar la bioactividad, dado que las cinéticas de hidrólisis enzimática de la harina desgrasada y del aislado proteínico no encontraron diferencias significativas en el grado de hidrólisis para los tiempos de reacción en cada sistema (60, 90 y 120 min). Los valores de IC50 que presentaron el mejor efecto de inhibición sobre la ECA-I fueron 2,8 y 7,0 µg/mL, obtenidos a partir del aislado proteínico con la enzima alcalasa y con el sistema secuencial pepsina-pancreatina, respectivamente. Los hidrolizados de J. curcas podrían ser incorporados en la elaboración de alimentos funcionales y ser aplicados en tratamientos para personas con hipertensión por su efecto inhibitorio sobre la ECA-I.

In vitro angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity was evaluated in protein hydrolysates from defatted meal and protein isolate from Jatropha curcas L. Seed, in order to determine their potential inclusion in functional food formulation. Hydrolysates were produced using Alcalase® or a sequential pepsin-pancreatin enzymatic system. Mean inhibitory concentration (IC50) was used to measure the degree of ACE enzymatic activity inhibition. Bioactivity was evaluated in the hydrolysates with the lowest hydrolysis time (60 min) given that no differences in degree of hydrolysis in terms of reaction time in each system were observed (60, 90 and 120 min) in the enzymatic hydrolysis kinetics for the defatted meal and protein isolate. The protein isolate exhibited the highest inhibitory effect, as seen in the IC50 values: 2.8 µg/mL in the alcalase system and 7.0 µg/mL in the pepsin-pancreatin system. Hydrolysates from J. curcas seed exhibit ACE inhibition and could be incorporated into functional foods or treatments for those suffering hypertension.

Foi avaliada a atividade inibitória in vitro dos hidrolisados proteicos obtidos a partir da farinha desengordurada e do isolado proteico provenientes do grão de Jatropha curcas L. sobre a atividade da enzima conversora de angiotensina I (ECA-1), com o objetivo de utilizá-los num futuro para a formulação de alimentos funcionais. Os hidrolisados foram obtidos usando alcalase e o sistema enzimático pepsina-pancreatina. Foi calculada a concentração média inibitória (IC50) para medir o grau de inibição da atividade enzimática da ECA-1. Foram selecionados os hidrolisados com o menor tempo de hidrólise (60 min.) para avaliar a bioatividade visto que as cinéticas de hidrólise enzimática da farinha desengordurada e do isolado proteico não encontraram diferenças significativas no grau de hidrólise para os tempos de reação para cada sistema (60, 90 e 120 min.). Os valores de IC50 que apresentaram o melhor efeito de inibição sobre a ECA-I foram 2.8 e 7.0 µg/mL obtidos a partir do isolado proteico com a enzima alcalase e com o sistema sequencial pepsina-pancreatina respectivamente. Os hidrolisados de J. curcas poderiam ser incorporados na elaboração de alimentos funcionais e ser aplicados em tratamentos para pessoas com hipertensão por seu efeito inibitório sobre a ECA-I.

Angiotensina-(1-9) disminuye el remodelamiento cardiovascular hipertensivo independiente de los niveles de ECA y de angiotensina II / Angiotensin-(1-) reduces hypertensive cardiovascular remodeling independent of ACE and Ang II levels

Resumen: La enzima convertidora de angiotensina I (ECA2) a través de Angiotensina (Ang)-(1-9) más que Ang-(1-7) contrarresta los efectos deletéreos de ECA y Ang II. Se desconoce si Ang-(1-9) es efectiva en el tratamiento del remodelamiento cardiovascular (RMCV) hipertensivo, en ratas con polimorfismo del gen de la ECA. Objetivo: Determinar el efecto de Ang-(1-9) en el tratamiento del RMCV hipertensivo en ratas con niveles genéticamente determinados de ECA y Ang II. Métodos: Ratas normotensas homocigotas, Lewis (LL) y Brown Norway (BN), se les indujo HTA a través del modelo Goldblatt (GB, 2 riñones-1 pinzado). Después de 4 semanas, las ratas hipertensas se rando-mizaron para recibir Ang-(1-9) (602 ng/Kg min) o una coadministración de Ang-(1-9)+A779 (100 ng/Kg min, antagonista del receptor MAS de Ang-(1-7)) durante 14 días mediante una minibomba. Como controles se usaron ratas sometidas a operación ficticia (Sham). Se determinó masa corporal (MC), presión arterial sistólica (PAS), masa ventricular (MV), área de cardiomiocitos (AC), área y grosor de la túnica media (ATM, GTM), fracción volumétrica de colágeno total (FVCT) en el ventrículo izquierdo (VI), niveles proteicos de colágeno tipo I (Col I) en la aorta (Ao) y la infiltración de macrófagos en Ao y VI, por medio de su molécula especifica ED1 (ED1-Ao, ED1-VI). Resultados: La administración de Ang-(1-9) disminuyó significativamente PAS, MV, AC, FVCT, Col I, ATM, GTM, ED1-Ao (-) y ED1-VI, en las ratas hipertensas LL y BN respecto a las ratas GB sin tratamiento, respectivamente. Este efecto no fue inhibido por el antagonista A779. El polimorfismo de la ECA no modificó la respuesta al tratamiento. Conclusión: Ang-(1-9) redujo eficazmente la HTA y el RMCV secundario, independiente al polimorfismo en el gen de la ECA. Este efecto posiblemente es directo ya que no fue mediado por Ang-(1-7). Fondecyt 1100874.

Background: The angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) counteracts the deleterious effects of ACE and Ang II through angiotensin (Ang) -(1-9) rather than Ang-(1-7). In addition, it is not clear whether Ang-(1-9) is effective in the reversal of hypertensive cardiovascular remodeling (CVRM) in rats with ACE gene polymorphism. Objective: To determine the effect of Ang-(1-9) in the prevention of hypertensive CVRM in rats with genetically determined levels of ACE and Ang II. Methods: In normotensive homozygous Lewis (LL) and Brown Norway (BN) rats hypertension was induced by the Goldblatt 2 kidney-1 pinch model. After 4 weeks, rats were randomized to receive Ang- (1-9) (602 ng / Kg min) or the co administration of Ang- (19) + A779 (100 ng / kg min, a MAS receptor antagonist of Ang- (1-7)) for 14 days. Sham operated rats were used as controls. We determined body mass (BM), systolic blood pressure (SBP), ventricular mass (VM), cardiomyocyte area (CA), area and thickness of the aortic media (ATM, TTM), LV total collagen volume fraction (FVCT), type I collagen protein levels (Col I) in the aorta (Ao) and macrophage infiltration in LV and Ao, through its specific molecule ED1 (ED1-Ao, ED1-VI). Results: Continuous administration of Ang- (1-9) significantly decreased SBP, VM, CA, TCVF, Col I, TTM, and ED1 in the aorta and left ventricle of hypertensive rats. This effect was not inhibited by the antagonist A779. ACE polymorphism did not modify the response to treatment. Conclusion: Ang- (1-9) effectively reduced hypertension induced CVRM independent of ACE gene polymorphism. This effect was not mediated by Ang- (1-7).

Large-scale meta-analysis of genetic studies in ischemic stroke: Five genes involving 152,797 individuals.

BACKGROUND: Ischemic stroke descent has a genetic basis. Stroke represents a complex trait, which is assumed to be polygenic. On this topic, the role of a wide number of candidate genes has been investigated in stroke through association studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a literature-based systematic review of genetic association studies in stroke abound several populations. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined for each gene-disease association. Following a review of 300 manuscripts, five candidate gene variants were analyzed among 152,797 individuals (45,433 cases and 107,364 controls). RESULTS: For these five candidate genes studied, the prothrombin OR is 1,57 (1,23-2,89), the factor V Leiden OR is 1,43 (0,67-6,24), the mean OR of angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism is 1,11 (1,02-1,25), the summary OR for the C677T variant of 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is 1,23 (0,61-1,47) and the pooled OR for the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene is 0,95 (0,77-1,14) . CONCLUSION: These data suggest the genetic associations of some genes with ischemic stroke and it is necessary to compete with other genes. Our findings could represent an epidemiological base and a useful tool to address further molecular investigations and to realize more detailed meta-analyses.

Determination of angiotensin I-converting enzyme activity in equine blood: lack of agreement between methods of analysis

Angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) is a key regulator of blood pressure, electrolytes and fluid homeostasis through conversion of angiotensin I into angiotensin II. Recently, a genetic polymorphism of the ACE gene, which accounts for 47% of the variation of ACE activity in blood, has been advocated as a biomarker of athletic aptitude. Different methods of analysis and determination of ACE activity in plasma have been used in human and equine research without a consensus of a "gold standard" method. Different methods have often been used interchangeably or cited as being comparable in the existing literature; however, the actual agreement between assays has not been investigated. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the level of agreement between three different assays using equine plasma obtained from 29 horses. Two spectrophotometric assays using Furylacryloyl-phenylalanyl-glycyl-glycine as substrate and one fluorimetric assay utilizing o-aminobenzoic acid-FRK-(Dnp)P-OH were employed. The results revealed that the measurements from the different assays were not in agreement, indicating that the methods should not be used interchangeably for measurement of equine ACE activity. Rather, a single method of analysis should be adopted to achieve comparable results and critical appraisal of the literature is needed when attempting to compare results obtained from different assays.

Digestion Pattern of Antihypertensive Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptides from Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a Successive Simulated Gastricintestinal Bioreactor

A cell-free extract of Saccharomyces cerevisiae containing the angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptide was treated in a successive simulated gastric-intestinal bioreactor (step 1: amylase digestion, step 2: gastric fluid digestion, step 3: intestinal fluid digestion) to illustrate the absorption pattern of antihypertensive ACE inhibitory peptide, and the ACE inhibitory activities of each step were determined. Total ACE inhibitory activities of step 1, step 2, and step 3 were 55.96%, 80.09%, and 76.77%, respectively. The peptide sequence of each steps was analyzed by MS/MS spectrophotometry. Eleven kinds of representative peptide sequences were conserved in each step, and representative new peptides including RLPTESVPEPK were identified in step 3.

Menores niveles tisulares de la enzima convertidora de angiotensina I homologa (ECA-2) y angiotensina-(1-9) están asociados a mayor remodelamiento de la pared aórtica de ratas hipertensas / Lower tissue levels of homologous angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE-2) and angiotensin 1-9 are associated to increased remodeling of the aortic wall of hypertensive rats

Antecedentes: Recientemente hemos propuesto en un modelo experimental de infarto al miocardio una significativa interregulación entre los niveles de la enzima convertidora de angiotensina I (ECA) y su homóloga (ECA-2), junto con que angiotensina (Ang)-(1-9) más que Ang-(1-7) actuaría como uncontrarregulador de Ang II. Sin embargo tal relación no se ha investigado en el remodelado aórtico hipertensivo. Objetivo: Determinar la expresión de ECA y ECA-2, los niveles de Angs I, II, (1-7) y (1-9) y los parámetros de remodelado de la pared aórtica de ratas hipertensas. Métodos: Ratas normotensas Lewis (n=18) fueron randomizadas a hipertensión (HTA) por sobrecarga de presión (modelo Goldblatt, GB, 2 riñones-1 pinzado, n=9). Ratas pseudo-operadas se usaron como controles (S, n=9). A las 6 semanas post cirugía, se determinó la masa cardíaca relativa (MCR) y la presión arterial sistólica (PAS). En la aorta torácica se determinó el grosor de la túnica media (GTM), área de la TM (ATM), niveles de mRNA de ECA y ECA-2, factor de crecimiento transformante tipo beta (TGF-beta), inhibidor del activador de plasminógeno (PAI-1) y de la proteína quimioatractante de monocitos (MCP-1) por RT-PCR. La actividad y niveles proteicos de ECA y ECA-2 por fluorimetría y Western blot y los niveles de Angs I, II, (1-7) y (1-9) por HPLC y radioinmunoensayo. Resultados: La MCR y la PAS aumentaron significativamente (p<0,05) en el grupo GB respecto a su control S. Las ratas hipertensas mostraron un aumento significativo (p<0.05) del GTM (18 por ciento), ATM (31 por ciento), niveles de mRNA de ECA (164 por ciento), TGF-beta (105 por ciento), PAI-1(51 por ciento), MCP-1 (53 por ciento) junto con mayor actividad (89 por ciento), niveles proteicos de ECA (130 por ciento) y Ang II (48 por ciento). Esos efectos se asociaron a una significativa disminución del mRNA, los niveles proteicos y actividad...

Background: In experimental models of myocardial infarction we have recently proposed a significantinter-regulation between levels of Angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) and its homologous, ACE-2; in addition, we have proposed that Angiotensin 1-9 (Ang-(1-9)) rather than Ang-(1-7) counter regulates Ang II. These relations have not been investigated in hypertensive aortic wall remodeling. Aim: To measure de expression of ACE and ACE-2, the aortic wall levels of Ang I, Ang II, Ang-(1-7) and Ang-(1-9), along with parameters of aortic wall remodeling in hypertensive rats. Methods: 18 Lewis rats were randomized to Goldblatt (2 kidneys, 1 clamped) induced hypertension (n=9) or sham operation (controls, n=9). Six weeks after surgery, relative cardiac mass (RCM), systolic blood pressure (SBP), medial layer aortic wall thickness (MLT) and ML area (MLA) were measured. The aortic wall levels of ACE and ACE-2, tissue growth factor beta (TGF- beta), plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1) were determined by RT-PCR. Activity and protein levels of ACE and ACE-2 were measured by fluorometry and Western Blot and ANG I, Ang II, Ang-(1-7) and Ang-(1-9) levels were determined using HPLC and radioimmunoassay. Results: RCM and SBP increased significantly in hypertensive as opossed to sham operated rats...

The use of Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) peptidesfor measurement of clinically important proteolytic enzymes

Proteolytic enzymes have a fundamental role in many biological processes and are associated with multiple pathological conditions. Therefore, targeting these enzymes may be important for a better understanding of their function and development of therapeutic inhibitors. Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) peptides are convenient tools for the study of peptidases specificity as they allow monitoring of the reaction on a continuous basis, providing a rapid method for the determination of enzymatic activity. Hydrolysis of a peptide bond between the donor/acceptor pair generates fluorescence that permits the measurement of the activity of nanomolar concentrations of the enzyme. The assays can be performed directly in a cuvette of the fluorimeter or adapted for determinations in a 96-well fluorescence plate reader. The synthesis of FRET peptides containing ortho-aminobenzoic acid (Abz) as fluorescent group and 2, 4-dinitrophenyl (Dnp) or N-(2, 4-dinitrophenyl)ethylenediamine (EDDnp) as quencher was optimized by our group and became an important line of research at the Department of Biophysics of the Federal University of São Paulo. Recently, Abz/Dnp FRET peptide libraries were developed allowing high-throughput screening of peptidases substrate specificity. This review presents the consolidation of our research activities undertaken between 1993 and 2008 on the synthesis of peptides and study of peptidases specificities.

As enzimas proteolíticas têm um papel fundamental em muitos processos biológicos e estão associadas a vários estados patológicos. Por isso, o estudo da especificidade das peptidases pode ser importante para uma melhor compreensão da função destas enzimas e para o desenvolvimento de inibidores. Os substratos com supressão intramolecular de fluorescência constituem uma excelente ferramenta, pois permitem o monitoramento da reação de forma contínua, proporcionando um método prático e rápido para a determinação da atividade enzimática. A hidrólise de qualquer ligação da cadeia peptídica entre o grupo doador e o grupo supressor gera fluorescência que permite detectar concentração nanomolar de enzima. Os ensaios podem ser acompanhados diretamente na cubeta ou adaptados para determinações de fluorescência em leitoras de placa. A síntese dos peptídeos com supressão intramolecular de fluorescência contendo o grupo fluorescente Abz (orto-aminobenzóico) e o grupo supressor EDDnp (N-[2, 4-dinitrofenil]-etilenodiamino ou Dnp (2, 4-dinitrophenyl) foi otimizada pelo nosso grupo e tornou-se uma importante linha de pesquisa no Departamento de Biofísica da Universidade Federal de São Paulo. Recentemente, foram desenvolvidas bibliotecas de peptídeos fluorogênico contendo Abz/Dnp como grupo doador/supressor trazendo um grande avanço no estudo de especificidade das peptidases. Esta revisão apresenta o trabalho desenvolvido pelo nosso grupo entre 1993 e 2008 sobre a síntese de peptídeos e o estudo da especificidade de peptidases.

Inhibitory Activity of Porcine Placenta Extracts on Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme / 日本補完代替医療学会誌

<i>Objective</i>: Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme was used to study the inhibitory activity of porcine placenta extracts.<br> <i>Methods</i>: ACE was derived from rabbit lung. Bz-Gly-His-Leu was used as a substrate. Production of hippuric acid was measured by HPLC.<br> <i>Result</i>: ACE inhibitory activity was measured in a two-fold dilution of porcine placenta extracts. The IC₅₀ of porcine placenta extracts was 95.7 μg. The results of a Lineweaver-Burk plot suggested that porcine placenta extracts exhibited a competitive inhibition.<br> <i>Conclusion</i>: In this paper, we found that porcine placenta extracts had an anti-ACE activity.<br>

Association of urinary 90 kDa angiotensin- converting enzyme with family history of hypertension and endothelial function in normotensive individuals

We described angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) isoforms with molecular masses of 190, 90, and 65 kDa in the urine of normotensive offspring of hypertensive subjects. Since they did not appear in equal amounts, we suggested that 90 kDa ACE might be a marker for hypertension. We evaluated the endothelial response in normotensive offspring with or without family history of hypertension and its association with the 90 kDa ACE in urine. Thirty-five normotensive subjects with a known family history of hypertension and 20 subjects without a family history of hypertension, matched for age, sex, body weight, and blood pressure, were included in the study. Endothelial function was assessed by ultrasound and a sample of urine was collected for determination of ACE isoforms. In the presence of a family history of hypertension and detection of 90 kDa ACE, we noted a maximal flow mediated dilation of 12.1 ± 5.0 vs 16.1 ± 6.0 percent in those without a previous history of hypertension and lacking urinary 90 kDa ACE (P < 0.05). In subjects with a family history of hypertension and presenting 90 kDa ACE, there were lower levels of HDL-cholesterol (P < 0.05) and higher levels of triglycerides (P < 0.05). Subjects with 90 kDa ACE irrespective of hypertensive history presented a trend for higher levels of triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol (P = 0.06) compared to subjects without 90 kDa ACE. Our data suggest that the 90 kDa ACE may be a marker for hypertension which may be related to the development of early atherosclerotic changes.

ANGIOTENSIN I CONVERTING ENZYME GENE INSERTION/DELETION POLYMORPHISM AND HUMAN PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE / 体力科学

Angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) gene Insertion/Deletion (I/D) polymorphism was first shown as a genetic factor which influences human physical performance in 1998. Since then, various gene polymorphisms which influence physical performance and trainability have been reported. ACE is a key enzyme which produces angiotensin II in the renin-angiotensin system, and its activity was determined by I/D polymorphism. Many studies indicate that the I/I genotype is frequently found in elite endurance athletes, while the D/D genotype is frequently found in power-oriented elite athletes. Longitudinal studies show that the D/D genotype may contribute to enhanced strength trainability. However, it is still unclear whether the I/I genotype enhances endurance trainability. Therefore, the ACE gene I/D polymorphism can be a genetic factor which influences human physical performance.

Production of enzymatic hydrolysate of Acetes chinensis with angiotensin Ⅰ -converting enzyme inhibitory and its antihypertensive effects on spontaneously hypertensive rats / 中国生化药物杂志

Purpose To produce enzymatic hydolysates with angiotensin Ⅰ-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity and antihypertensive activity from Acetes chinensis. Methods ACE inhibitory activity of the hydrolysates of Acetes chinensis by five commercial proteases were determined in vitro to select a protease as the enzyme used in the preparation of enzymatic hydrolysate of Acetes chinensis, and orthogonal trials were employed to optimize its hydrolysis parameters, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were used to assess in vivo the hypotensive effects of hydrolysate under optimized condition. Results The hydrolysate with IC50 being0.65 mg/ml was obtained under the optimized condition of pH 2.4, 41℃, 3 h hydrolysis time, 3% enzyme/substrate ratio (E/S) and 8 % substrate concentration, and a recorded SBP reduction of 3 886.3 Pa (29mmHg) at 4 h after administration (1.0 g/kg BW) was observed. Conclusion Peptic hydrolysate of Acetes chinensis shows significant ACE inhibitory activity and antihypertensive activity.

Production of Antihypertensive Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor from Malassezia pachydermatis G-14

To produce a novel antihypertensive angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor from yeast, a yeast isolate, designated G-14 showing the highest ACE inhibitory activity was obtained and identified as Malassezia pachydermatis based on morphological, biochemical and cultural characteristics. The maximal extracellular ACE inhibitor production was obtained from M. pachydermatis G-14 when the strain was cultured in YEPD medium containing 0.5% yeast extract, 3.0% peptone and 2.0% glucose at 30degrees C for 24 h and the final ACE inhibitory activity was 48.9% under the above condition.

Association between I/D, G14480C, A22982G Polymorphisms of Angiotesin I-Converting Enzyme Gene and Essential Hypertension in the Korean Population

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) genes have been studied extensively as etiologic essential hypertension (EH) candidate genes in human populations worldwide. The angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) plays an important role in the RAS for the regulation of blood pressure. Recent reports on the association of ACE gene polymorphisms with EH and the related cardiovascular diseases have been controversial. Therefore, this study investigated the association of three polymorphisms (I/D, G14480C and A22982G) in the ACE gene with EH in Koreans. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This study recruited a sample population of 887 Koreans (comprising of 461 controls and 426 EH cases) from Cardiovascular Genome Center in Korea. The ACE gene polymorphisms were determined by a polymerase chain reaction and a SNP-IT assay. RESULTS: The genotype and the allele frequencies of all three polymorphisms in the hypertensives and the normotensives not significantly different (p>0.05). In the female control group, there was a significant difference in SBP among the genotype with the I/D polymorphism (p<0.05). There was also an association between the ACE polymorphisms and the hypertensive male group with the total cholesterol level. Haplotype analysis showed that none of the haplotypes were significantly associated with hypertension. CONCLUSION: ACE polymorphisms do not appear to have any apparent association with essential hypertension in Koreans, who have a more homogeneous genetic structure than other ethnic groups.