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Inactivation of methionine synthase by nitrous oxide

R Deacon, M Lumb, J Perry

    European Journal of Biochemistry
    |March 1, 1980
    PubMed
    Summary

    Nitrous oxide (N2O) rapidly inactivates vitamin B12-dependent methionine synthase in rats, impairing DNA synthesis. Enzyme activity recovers slowly after N2O withdrawal, offering a new research tool.

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    Area of Science:

    • Biochemistry
    • Toxicology
    • Nutritional Science

    Background:

    • Methionine synthase is a crucial enzyme in one-carbon metabolism.
    • Vitamin B12 is an essential cofactor for methionine synthase activity.
    • Nitrous oxide (N2O) is known to affect vitamin B12 metabolism.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the effects of nitrous oxide exposure on methionine synthase activity in vivo.
    • To examine the consequences of enzyme inactivation on DNA synthesis.
    • To assess the recovery of enzyme function after cessation of N2O exposure.

    Main Methods:

    • Rats were exposed to a 50% N2O/oxygen mixture.
    • Methionine synthase activity was measured in liver and brain tissues.
    • Deoxyuridine to deoxythymidine conversion in bone marrow cells was assessed.

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  • Enzyme activity was monitored during N2O withdrawal.

    • Main Results:

    • A rapid decrease in methionine synthase activity was observed in both liver and brain.
    • Impaired deoxyuridine to deoxythymidine conversion in bone marrow cells correlated with enzyme inactivation.
    • No homocystinuria was detected.
    • Methionine synthase activity showed a slow recovery over four days post-N2O exposure.

    Conclusions:

    • Nitrous oxide effectively inactivates vitamin B12-dependent methionine synthase in vivo.
    • This inactivation leads to impaired DNA synthesis, evidenced by bone marrow cell defects.
    • The slow recovery of enzyme activity highlights the persistent effects of N2O.
    • N2O-induced inactivation of vitamin B12 is a valuable model for studying vitamin B12 metabolism and related disorders.