Abstract

Peroxynitrite triggers DNA single-strand breakage, which activates the nuclear enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) synthetase (PARS). Activation of PARS depletes its substrate, NAD+, slowing the rate of glycolysis, electron transport, and ATP formation, resulting in cell necrosis. Here, we demonstrate that inhibition of PARS with the novel, potent PARS inhibitor 5-iodo-6-amino-1,2-benzopyrone (INH2BP) protects against peroxynitrite-induced cell death (as measured by measurement of mitochondrial respiration and release of lactate dehydrogenase) in C6 glioma cells in vitro, and in a murine stroke model in vivo. Inhibition of PARS with INH2BP may represent a novel approach for the experimental therapy of stroke.