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Nitric oxide inhibits ornithine decarboxylase by S-nitrosylation

P M Bauer1, J M Fukuto, G M Buga

  • 1Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California-Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, 90095-1735, USA.

Insights

Nitric oxide (NO) inhibits ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity by S-nitrosylation. This reversible inhibition affects polyamine synthesis, crucial for cell proliferation.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) is key in polyamine synthesis, essential for cell proliferation.
  • Nitric oxide (NO) has been previously shown to inhibit ODC activity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanism by which nitric oxide (NO) inhibits purified ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity.

Main Methods:

  • Used various NO donors (S-nitrosocysteine, S-nitrosoglutathione, DEA/NO) to treat purified ODC.
  • Assessed enzyme activity inhibition in a concentration-dependent manner.
  • Investigated reversibility of inhibition using dithiothreitol, glutathione, and cuprous ion.

Main Results:

  • NO donors inhibited ODC activity in a concentration-dependent manner.
  • Inhibition was reversible by reducing agents and cuprous ion.
  • S-nitrosocysteine and S-nitrosoglutathione were potent inhibitors.

Conclusions:

  • Nitric oxide (NO) inhibits ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity through S-nitrosylation of critical cysteine residues.
  • This mechanism impacts polyamine synthesis and cell proliferation.

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