Immuno-spin trapping of protein and DNA radicals: "tagging" free radicals to locate and understand the redox process

Free Radic Biol Med. 2009 Apr 1;46(7):853-65. doi: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2008.12.020. Epub 2009 Jan 7.

Abstract

Biomolecule-centered radicals are intermediate species produced during both reversible (redox modulation) and irreversible (oxidative stress) oxidative modification of biomolecules. These oxidative processes must be studied in situ and in real time to understand the molecular mechanism of cell adaptation or death in response to changes in the extracellular environment. In this regard, we have developed and validated immuno-spin trapping to tag the redox process, tracing the oxidatively generated modification of biomolecules, in situ and in real time, by detecting protein- and DNA-centered radicals. The purpose of this methods article is to introduce and update the basic methods and applications of immuno-spin trapping for the study of redox biochemistry in oxidative stress and redox regulation. We describe in detail the production, detection, and location of protein and DNA radicals in biochemical systems, cells, and tissues, and in the whole animal as well, by using immuno-spin trapping with the nitrone spin trap 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biochemistry / methods
  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Biomarkers / chemistry
  • Biomedical Research
  • Cell Line
  • Cyclic N-Oxides / chemistry
  • Cyclic N-Oxides / metabolism*
  • DNA / analysis
  • Free Radicals / analysis
  • Macrophages / chemistry
  • Macrophages / metabolism*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Mice
  • Models, Chemical
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Oxidative Stress*
  • Protein Binding
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Spin Trapping / instrumentation
  • Spin Trapping / methods*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Cyclic N-Oxides
  • Free Radicals
  • 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-1-oxide
  • DNA