Expression of ascorbate peroxidase derived from cyanidioschyzon merolae in mammalian cells

Background/Aim: Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) derived from Cyanidioschyzon merolae, a primitive red alga living in high temperature and acidic environments, has greater anti-oxidative capacity than similar peroxidases occurring in other plants. In the present study, we examined whether expression of Cyanidioschyzon merolae-derived APX (cAPX) in mammalian cells increases cellular antioxidative capacity. Materials and Methods: The cAPX gene was introduced into the mouse fibroblast-like cell line C3H10T1/2. Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or cell viability was assessed after heat, H₂O₂and acid stimulation. Results: Heat and H₂O₂stimulation resulted in ROS production. cAPX-expressing cells were more tolerant to oxidative stress induced by heat, H₂O₂and acid stimulations than control cells lacking cAPX. Conclusion: Introduction of cAPX increases the anti-oxidative capacity in mammalian cells.