Microinjection of catalase cDNA prevents hydrogen peroxide-induced motoneuron death

OXIDATIVE stress is believed to play a central role in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We investigated the protective effects of overexpression of catalase in primary cultures of rat spinal motoneuron s against the oxidative stress of hydrogen peroxide. Using microinjection, catalase-encoding cDNA was transferred into the motoneurons. In another app roach, motoneurons were injected with a catalase solution. Both procedures elevated the intracellular antioxidant status of the cultured motoneurons a s evidenced by a significant protection against H2O2 toxicity. We conclude that modulating the expression of enzymes involved in cellular defense agai nst oxidative stress can render cells more resistant to oxidant toxicity. ( C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.