Globin-based redox signaling

Abstract

In recent years, moderate levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) have become recognized as signaling cues that participate at all levels of cellular organization. Globins, with their redox-active heme iron and ubiquitous presence, seem ideally suited to participate in ROS metabolism. Here we comment on our recent findings that show the participation of a globin, GLB-12, in a redox signaling pathway in Caenorhabditis elegans. We found that GLB-12 produces superoxide, a type of ROS, after which this is converted to what appears to be a hydrogen peroxide gradient over the plasma membrane by the activity of intracellular and extracellular superoxide dismutases. In the first part, we discuss in more detail the different regulatory mechanisms that increase the effectiveness of this redox signal. In the second part, we comment on how specific structural and biochemical properties allow this globin to perform redox reactions. Interestingly, these properties are also observed in 2 other C. elegans globins that appear to be involved in redox biology. We therefore hypothesize that globins involved in redox signaling display similar structural and biochemical characteristics and propose that a subgroup of globins can be added to the group of proteins that play a vital role in redox signaling.

Gender Equality and Inclusive Growth

“…For the US, for example, such an investment would create 13 million new jobs most of which would be taken by women; they conclude that "Such a policy would contribute towards creating a more inclusive model of development as well as lifting economies out of recession". 113 Redistribute these tasks more equally between men and women 114 Many researchers stress that the suggestion promoted by some 115 to compensate all currently unpaid care-related and domestic work may not contribute to the full emancipation of women, but on the contrary, perpetuate their stereotypical cultural role. Furthermore, especially in some economically more developed countries that Korpi (2000) defines as "dual-earner" welfare states, the desire on the part of men to get involved in the care of children and family members is growing.…”

The phosphatidylinositol transfer protein PITP‐1 facilitates fast recovery of eating behavior after hypoxia in the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans

“…13 Like the mammalian cytoglobin 14 and neuroglobin, 15 GLB-5 is a hexacoordinated globin. 16 Hypotheses for hexacoordinated globins' in vivo functions include regulation of cellular signaling 13,17,18 and protection against oxidative damage. 19,20 GLB-5 controls worms' speed and recovery from hypoxia through its activity in the O 2 -sensing neurons AQR, PQR, and URX.…”

“…Like the mammalian cytoglobin 14 and neuroglobin, 15 GLB‐5 is a hexacoordinated globin 16 . Hypotheses for hexacoordinated globins' in vivo functions include regulation of cellular signaling 13,17,18 and protection against oxidative damage 19,20 …”