Effect of oxidative stress on receptors and signal transmission

Abstract

Reactive oxygen metabolites affect binding of ligands to membrane receptors and also coupling of receptors to G-proteins and effector enzymes. Peroxidation of membrane lipids may lead to a lowered receptor density and also will alter the viscosity of the plasma membrane, which affects receptor coupling. Reactive oxygen species may also interact with thiol/disulfide moieties on receptor proteins or on other factors in the receptor system, which is responsible for alterations in receptor binding or coupling. Moreover, lipid peroxidation is associated with the phospholipase A₂ pathway, which might indirectly affect receptor function. Moreover, oxidative stress may lead to a disturbance in cellular Ca²⁺-homeostasis. This might be related to an effect on Ca²⁺-mobilizing receptors, but there is also evidence for a decreased Ca²⁺-sequestration by ATPases. In addition, peroxidation of membrane lipids increases membrane permeability to Ca²⁺. Finally, reactive oxygen species interfere with actions of nitric oxide, thus affecting another pharmacological messenger system.