Peroxiredoxins and the Regulation of Cell Death
Mark B Hampton1, Karina M O'Connor1
1Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand.
Abstract:
Cell death pathways such as apoptosis can be activated in response to oxidative stress, enabling the disposal of damaged cells. In contrast, controlled intracellular redox events are proposed to be a significant event during apoptosis signaling, regardless of the initiating stimulus. In this scenario oxidants act as second messengers, mediating the post-translational modification of specific regulatory proteins. The exact mechanism of this signaling is unclear, but increased understanding offers the potential to promote or inhibit apoptosis through modulating the redox environment of cells. Peroxiredoxins are thiol peroxidases that remove hydroperoxides, and are also emerging as important players in cellular redox signaling. This review discusses the potential role of peroxiredoxins in the regulation of apoptosis, and also their ability to act as biomarkers of redox changes during the initiation and progression of cell death.
Insights
Oxidative stress triggers cell death pathways like apoptosis. This review explores how peroxiredoxins regulate apoptosis by acting as biomarkers for redox signaling during cell death.
Area of Science:
- Cellular biology
- Biochemistry
- Oxidative stress research
Background:
- Apoptosis, a crucial cell death pathway, can be initiated by oxidative stress.
- Intracellular redox events act as signaling mechanisms in apoptosis, independent of the initial trigger.
- Oxidants function as second messengers, mediating protein modifications essential for apoptosis signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of peroxiredoxins in regulating apoptosis.
- To discuss peroxiredoxins as biomarkers for redox alterations during cell death.
- To highlight the potential for modulating cellular redox environments to control apoptosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on peroxiredoxins, apoptosis, and redox signaling.
- Analysis of existing research on the mechanisms of redox-mediated apoptosis.
- Examination of peroxiredoxins' function in thiol-based antioxidant systems.
Main Results:
- Peroxiredoxins are identified as key regulators in cellular redox signaling.
- Evidence suggests peroxiredoxins play a significant role in the modulation of apoptosis.
- Peroxiredoxins show potential as biomarkers for tracking redox changes in cell death.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the redox mechanisms in apoptosis, particularly the role of peroxiredoxins, is crucial.
- Modulating the cellular redox environment offers therapeutic strategies for controlling apoptosis.
- Peroxiredoxins are promising targets for both understanding and intervening in cell death processes.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Peroxisomes
01:24Peroxisomes
01:31Regulation of the Unfolded Protein Response
01:30Overview of Cell Death
Cell death was observed in the early 19th century, but there was no experimental evidence to prove it. In 1842, Carl Vogt first discovered cell death in a metamorphic toad; however, it was not termed ‘cell death.’ Scientists discovered different cell death pathways only in the...
01:31The Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
01:27Redox Reactions