Gene transfer of CuZn superoxide dismutase enhances the synthesis of vascular endothelial growth factor.

Nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are emerging as important regulators of angiogenesis. NO enhances VEGF synthesis in several cell types and is required for execution of VEGF angiogenic effect in endothelial cells. Similarly, hydrogen peroxide induces VEGF synthesis and recent studies indicate the involvement of ROS in signaling downstream of VEGF stimulation.

Dietary lipid hydroperoxides induce expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in human colorectal tumor cells.

Fatty acid hydroperoxides arise from unsaturated fatty acids in the presence of oxygen and elevated temperature during processing of food. Here we have studied their effects on gene expression in colorectal tumor cells using linoleic acid hydroperoxide (LOOH) as a model compound. Its addition to the medium of LT97 human adenoma cells and SW480 human carcinoma cells enhanced the production of intracellular hydrogen peroxide.

Caroverine, a multifunctional drug with antioxidant functions.

Here we show that lipid peroxidation of liposomal membranes was suppressed in the presence of Caroverine, a spasmolytic drug used in some countries. In order to understand the mechanism of this antioxidant action of Caroverine we studied the interaction of Caroverine with superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals and peroxynitrite. The results of the study show that the reaction of Caroverine with O2-* radicals is of marginal significance.

Induction of lipid peroxidation in biomembranes by dietary oil components.

Prooxidant formation and resulting lipid peroxidation are supposed to be involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases including cancer. Cancer risk is possibly influenced by the composition of diet with high intake of fat and red meat being harmful and high consumption of fruits and vegetables being protective. Since dietary oils may contain potential prooxidants, the aim of the present study was to prove (i) whether oxidative stress in biomembranes may be induced by dietary oils and if, (ii) which impact it has on the viability and proliferation of cultured colon (carcinoma) cells.

The antioxidant activity of caroverine.

Caroverine, 1-(2-diethylaminoethyl)-3-(p-methoxy benzyl)-1,2-dihydro-2-quinoxalin-2-on-hydrochloride, is a class B calcium-channel-blocker and antiglutamatergic agent with significant effects on the brain function. Caroverine exhibits competitive AMPA antagonism, and at higher concentrations, noncompetitive NMDA antagonism. In clinical practice caroverine is used as a spasmolytic and otoneuroprotective agent.