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7 July 2010 Transgenic Biosynthesis of Trypanothione Protects Escherichia coli from Radiation-Induced Toxicity
Matthew P. Fitzgerald, Joshua M. Madsen, Mitchell C. Coleman, Melissa L. T. Teoh, Scott G. Westphal, Douglas R. Spitz, Rafael Radi, Frederick E. Domann
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Abstract

Trypanothione is a unique diglutathionyl-spermidine conjugate found in abundance in trypanosomes but not in other eukaryotes. Because trypanothione is a naturally occurring polyamine thiol reminiscent of the synthetic drug amifostine, it may be a useful protector against radiation and oxidative stress. For these reasons we hypothesized that trypanothione might serve as a radioprotective agent when produced in bacteria. To accomplish this objective, the trypanothione synthetase and reductase genes from T. cruzi were introduced into E. coli and their expression was verified by qPCR and immunoblotting. Trypanothione synthesis in bacteria, detected by HPLC, resulted in decreased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species as determined by H2DCFDA oxidation. Moreover, E. coli genomic DNA was protected from radiation-induced DNA damage by 4.6-fold in the presence of trypanothione compared to control bacteria. Concordantly, the transgenic E. coli expressing trypanothione were 4.3-fold more resistant to killing by 137Cs γ radiation compared to E. coli devoid of trypanothione expression. Thus we have shown for the first time that E. coli can be genetically engineered to express the trypanothione biosynthetic pathway and produce trypanothione, which results in their radioresistance. These results warrant further research to explore the possibility of developing trypanothione as a novel radioprotective agent.

Matthew P. Fitzgerald, Joshua M. Madsen, Mitchell C. Coleman, Melissa L. T. Teoh, Scott G. Westphal, Douglas R. Spitz, Rafael Radi, and Frederick E. Domann "Transgenic Biosynthesis of Trypanothione Protects Escherichia coli from Radiation-Induced Toxicity," Radiation Research 174(3), 290-296, (7 July 2010). https://doi.org/10.1667/RR2235.1
Received: 9 April 2010; Accepted: 1 May 2010; Published: 7 July 2010
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