Developments in genomics and proteomics rapidly generated focus on new -omics, particularly metabolomics and phenomics. Quinones, hydroquinones, semiquinones and their metabolites are naturally occurring compounds that serve as wonderful examples for this new paradigm of interdigitating ,-omics. In addition to a role as substrates and products in metabolism, quinone compounds are intermediates in many pathways of gene regulation, enzyme protein induction, feedback control, and waste product elimination. Quinones play a pivotal role in energy metabolism (Peter Mitchell’s proton-motive, Q cycle’), many other key processes, and even in chemotherapy where redox cycling drugs are utilized.
The present volume of Methods in Enzymology on quinones and quinone enzymes serves to bring together current methods and concepts on this topic. It focuses on the role in the so-called Phase II of drug metabolism (xenobiotics), but include aspects on Phase I (CYP, cytochromes P-450) and Phase III (transport systems) as well. This volume of Methods in Enzymology, Part B addresses mitochondrial ubiquinone and reductases, anticancer quinones, and the role of quinone reductases in chemoprevention and nutrition, as well as the role of quinones in age-related diseases, whereas (Part A) focused on quinones and quinone enzymes in terms of coenzyme Q (detection and quinone reductases), plasma membrane quinone reductases, and the role of quinones in cellular signaling and modulation of gene expression. Phase II Enzymes, Part C, will be focusing on glutathione, glutathione S-transferases, and other conjugation enzymes.
The enzyme, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase, is the subject of a major section in this volume. This enzyme, discovered in 1958 in Stockholm by Lars Ernster, and named DT-Diaphorase by him, has multiple roles, some of which were only recently discovered.
Human polymorphisms exist in these enzymes that relate to variations in cancer risk, and enzymes targeted by quinones are being investigated. Modern methods in assaying quinone reactions and, indeed, various quinones themselves, are also included in this volume.
Following its discovery in 1957, ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10) as a major naturally occurring quinone became a highlight of scientific interest and an established role in mitochondrial electron transport by Frederick Crane. Fundamental contributions were made by Karl Folkers on its supplemental use for health benefits in disease prevention and by Andre? s O.M. Stoppani, a pioneer of Argentinian biochemistry, in utilizing quinones for the treatment of Chagas disease.
Ed. Helmut Sies and Lester Packer
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