The effect of fasting on malondialdehyde level in liver and plasma of New Zealand white rabbits

Abstract

Oxidative stress is a state of imbalance of free radicals in the cells and is one of the causes of various diseases in humans. One method that is thought to reduce oxidative stress is calorie restriction or fasting. However, its effects remain unclear. This study was conducted to determine the effect of intermittent fasting and prolonged fasting on the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress marker in the liver and plasma of New Zealand White rabbits. Fifteen of New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three groups (intermittent fasting (IF), prolonged fasting (PF), and control). MDA was measured in plasma and liver homogenate using spectrophotometry. The results were analyzed using One-way ANOVA test. The liver MDA level was decreased in the IF group, but not significant. However, there was a significant increase in plasma MDA levels both in the IF and PF groups. Moreover, liver MDA level was increased in PF group, although it was not significant. In conclusion, intermittent and prolonged fasting could increase plasma MDA levels significantly.