24 - Protective effect of creatine against hyperglycemia induced oxidative damage in human erythrocytes

Abstract

According to International Diabetes Federation data, in 2015 there were 415 million people suffering from diabetes worldwide and this number is expected to increase to 642 million in 2040. Studies have shown a strong relationship between hyperglycemia and oxidative stress (OS) that seems to play a crucial role in progression of diabetes mellitus (DM). In hyperglycemia associated oxidative stress conditions, reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced injury of erythrocytes results in abnormalities in their function, morphology and metabolism. Moreover, the ROS present in erythrocytes can be transferred to other cells, thus inducing and spreading tissue damage and inflammation. Hyperglycemia mediated erythrocyte redox state alterations might be a potential risk factor for the development of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy in poorly controlled diabetic subjects. Antioxidants (AO) are now being looked upon as persuasive therapeutics to combat free radicals. AO are expected to prevent oxidative stress and diabetes-related complications by inhibiting the formation of and/or scavenging free radicals or by enhancing the capability of the endogenous antioxidant system. Creatine (Cr) is naturally produced in the body and stored in muscles where it is involved in energy generation. It is widely used, especially by athletes, as a staple supplement for improving physical performance. Our previous work suggests that Cr can function as a blood antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage, genotoxicity and can potentially increase erythrocyte lifespan. In this study, glucose cytoxicity is induced in erythrocytes and various biochemical parameters for assessing OS, ROS and nitrogen species were assayed in packed erythrocytes and cell lysates. Protection from oxidative damage to erythrocytes was analyzed using Cr and carnosine.