Intracellular effects of free radicals and reactive oxygen species in cardiac muscle

Miller, D. J. and MacFarlane, N. G. (1995) Intracellular effects of free radicals and reactive oxygen species in cardiac muscle. Journal of Human Hypertension, 9(6), pp. 465-73. (PMID:7473529)

Abstract

Oxygen-derived free radicals (FRs) and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated in the deleterious aspects of myocardial infarction, neutrophil infiltration and post-ischaemic reperfusion. We studied their actions on the main intracellular organelles of Ca-compartmentation and force production (the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and myofilaments) in rat heart preparations by using two forms of chemical 'skinning'. We recorded Ca(2+)-activated isometric tension or, in saponin-treated trabeculae where SR function is maintained, either tension alone or tension and [Ca2+] transients evoked by caffeine. A single, brief application of xanthine/xanthine oxidase (generating superoxide; O2-) rapidly and irreversibly inhibits Ca(2+)-activated force with a dose- and time-dependent action. The kinetics of residual force production are slowed. Rigor induction (by ATP withdrawal) before and during exposure to .O2- prevents this action, suggesting the .O2(-)-sensitive site is occluded in rigor. Myofilament Ca-sensitivity and SR function were unaffected by .O2- or physiologically relevant [H2O2] (< 10 microM). Briefly applying 10-50 microM hypochlorous acid (HOCl) increased Ca-sensitivity and resting tension, but reduced Ca-activated force, in a manner consistent with 'rigor-like' crossbridges being involved. HOCl also provoked spontaneous Ca-release but reduced net SR Ca-uptake. Electron microscopy reveals that the myofilament lattice suffers a characteristic disruption by HOCl but not by .O2-. We conclude that FRs and ROS associated with myocyte dysfunction, reperfusion and inflammation could contribute to post-ischaemic myocardial dysfunction.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Miller, Dr David and MacFarlane, Professor Niall
• Authors: Miller, D. J., and MacFarlane, N. G.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Life Sciences
• Journal Name: Journal of Human Hypertension
• ISSN: 0950-9240