Metabolism of protein-bound DOPA in mammals
- Publication Type:
- Journal Article
- Citation:
- International Journal of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, 2000, 32 (9), pp. 945 - 955
- Issue Date:
- 2000-01-01
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Protein-bound 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) can be generated in mammalian cells by both controlled enzymatic pathways, and by uncontrolled radical reactions. Protein-bound DOPA (PB-DOPA) has reducing activity and the capacity to inflict secondary damage on other important biomolecules such as DNA. This may be mediated through replenishment of transition metals or from catechol-quinone-catechol redox cycles in the presence of cellular components such as ascorbate or cysteine, resulting in amplification of radical damaging events. The generation of PB-DOPA confers on protein the ability to chelate transition metals generating protein 'oxychelates'; this may be amongst the factors, which localise such damage. Tissue levels of PB-DOPA are increased in a number of age-related pathologies such as atherosclerosis and cataract formation. We discuss the detoxification, and the subsequent proteolysis and excretion of components of PB-DOPA. We contrast the fact that in marine organisms, and particularly in extracellular proteins, PB-DOPA and other DOPA-polymers can play important functional roles in adhesion and the provision of tensile properties. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd.
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