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Guanidino compounds generate reactive oxygen species
1Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California at Berkeleley 94720-3200, USA.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology International
|September 1, 1996
Summary
High levels of guanidino compounds like methylguanidine can generate harmful hydroxyl radicals. This may explain their role in conditions such as epilepsy and kidney failure (uremia).
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nephrology
- Neurology
Background:
- Methylguanidine, guanidinoacetic acid, and guanidinosuccinic acid are naturally occurring substances in the body.
- Elevated levels of these guanidino compounds are linked to the development of epilepsy and renal failure (uremia).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of endogenous guanidino compounds and arginine to generate hydroxyl radicals.
- To explore the role of these radicals in the pathogenesis of uremia and epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- Aqueous solutions containing methylguanidine, guanidinoacetic acid, guanidinosuccinic acid, and arginine were analyzed.
- The generation of hydroxyl radicals was detected and quantified.
Main Results:
- Methylguanidine, guanidinoacetic acid, guanidinosuccinic acid, and arginine were all demonstrated to generate hydroxyl radicals in aqueous solution.
- This indicates a potential mechanism for oxidative damage by these compounds.
Conclusions:
- Accumulation of guanidino compounds near or within cells (neurons, nephrons) may lead to free radical damage, contributing to epilepsy and uremia.
- Arginine may also play a role in the pathogenesis of hyperarginemia through similar mechanisms.