The NADPH oxidase family and its inhibitors

Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz). 2012 Aug;60(4):277-94. doi: 10.1007/s00005-012-0176-z. Epub 2012 Jun 14.

Abstract

The classical nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase was originally detected in neutrophils as a multicomponent enzyme that catalyzes the generation of superoxide from oxygen and the reduced form of NADPH. This enzyme is composed of two membrane-bound subunits (p22phox and gp91phox), three cytosolic subunits (p67phox, p47phox, and p40phox) and a small G-protein Rac (Rac1 and Rac2). Recently, it has been demonstrated that there are several isoforms of nonphagocytic NADPH oxidase. Endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells or adventitial fibroblasts possess multiple isoforms of this enzyme. The new homologs, along with gp91phox are now designated the Nox family of NADPH oxidases and are key sources of reactive oxygen species in the vasculature. Reactive oxygen species play a significant role in regulating endothelial function and vascular tone. However, besides the participation in the processes of physiological cell, these enzymes can also be the perpetrator of oxidative stress that causes endothelial dysfunction. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge of the structure and functions of NADPH oxidase and NADPH oxidase inhibitors in the treatment of disorders with endothelial damage.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / drug therapy
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / metabolism*
  • Endothelium, Vascular / drug effects
  • Endothelium, Vascular / metabolism*
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / chemistry
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Myocytes, Smooth Muscle / drug effects
  • Myocytes, Smooth Muscle / metabolism*
  • NADPH Oxidases / antagonists & inhibitors
  • NADPH Oxidases / classification
  • NADPH Oxidases / metabolism*
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects
  • Protein Isoforms / metabolism*
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism

Substances

  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Protein Isoforms
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • NADPH Oxidases