13-Oxo-ODE is an endogenous ligand for PPARγ in human colonic epithelial cells

BackgroundThe ligand activated nuclear hormone receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) induces transcriptional repression of pro-inflammatory factors. Activation of PPARγ is followed by amelioration of colitis in animal models of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A reduced expression of PPARγ was found in epithelial cells of patients with ulcerative colitis. The eicosanoids 13-HODE and 15-HETE are products of 12/15-lipoxygenase (LOX) and endogenous ligands for PPARγ. Dehydrogenation of 13-HODE by 13-HODE dehydrogenase results in formation of the 13-Oxo-ODE. Highest activity of 13-HODE dehydrogenase is found in colonic epithelial cells (CECs). We therefore investigated whether 13-Oxo-ODE is a new endogenous ligand of PPARγ in CECs.MethodsLOX activity and 13-HODE dehydrogenase in CECs were investigated after stimulation with arachidonic or linoleic acid. LOX metabolites were identified by RP-18 reversed-phase HPLC. Binding of 14C-labelled 13-Oxo-ODE was demonstrated using a His-tagged PPARγ.ResultsStimulation of HT-29 and primary CECs homogenates with and without Ca-ionophor was followed by the formation of high amounts of the linoleic acid metabolite 13-Oxo-ODE (155 and 85 ng/ml). The decrease of IL-8 secretion from IEC was more pronounced after pre-incubation with 13-Oxo-ODE compared to the PPARγ agonist troglitazone and higher as with the known PPARγ ligands 13-HODE and 15-HETE. Binding assays with 14C-labelled 13-Oxo-ODE clearly demonstrated a direct interaction.ConclusionHigh amounts of 13-Oxo-ODE can be induced in CECs by stimulation of linoleic acid metabolism. 13-Oxo-ODE binds to PPARγ and has anti-inflammatory effects. 13-HODE dehydrogenase might be a therapeutic target in IBD.