The NADPH oxidase Nox4 restricts the replicative lifespan of human endothelial cells.

ABSTRACT: The free radical theory of aging proposes that ROS (reactive oxygen species) are major driving forces of aging, and are also critically involved in cellular senescence. Besides the mitochondrial respiratory chain, alternative sources of ROS have been described that might contribute to cellular senescence. Noxs (NADPH oxidases) are well-known sources of superoxide, which contribute to the antimicrobial capabilities of macrophages, a process involving the prototypical member of the family referred to as Nox2. However, in recent years non-phagocytic homologues of Nox2 have been identified that are involved in processes other than the host defence. Superoxide anions produced by these enzymes are believed to play a major role in signalling by MAPKs (mitogen-activated protein kinases) and stress

SUBMITTER: Lener B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2762686 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature