Figure 2.

Effect of PARK7/DJ-1 on the formation of AGEs. AGE formation is facilitated by reactive GDPs. AGEs activate their AGE receptors leading to oxidative stress and inflammation. To eliminate toxic GDPs, the glutathione system degrades them to nontoxic lactate. PARK7/DJ-1 is involved in this process at several points. Indeed, PARK7/DJ-1 has its own glyoxalase activity, and upregulates the glyoxalase-1 and 2 enzyme activity, which is responsible for the elimination of GDPs. In addition, PARK7/DJ-1 has deglycase activity, thereby preventing the glycation of macromolecules and AGE formation. Finally, as an antioxidant, PARK7/DJ-1 protects the cells against the harmful effect of oxidative stress.