Superoxide Dismutase Enzyme Levels Research Articles

EFFECTS OF CHROMIUM PICOLINATE ON OXIDATIVE STRESS AND HYPERGLYCEMIA IN EXPERIMENTAL TYPE 2 DIABETIC RATS

Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of chromium picolinate (CrPic) on diabetes, one of the most common and fatal diseases in the world, and its associated oxidative damages.Methods: CrPic (100 μg/kg) and metformin (1000 mg/kg) were orally administered for 21 days in rats with nicotinamide + streptozotocin-induced Type 2 diabetes.Results: Significant decreases in fasting blood glucose levels were observed 14 days after initial administration in both CrPic (p<0.01) and metformin (p<0.001) groups compared with a diabetic control group (DC). Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels of all tissues were significantly higher in the DC group than in a normoglycemic control group (p<0.001). MDA levels of the CrPic group significantly decreased in heart (p<0.05) and liver (p<0.01) tissues. Glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) levels in heart, kidney, and liver tissues increased in CrPic group (GSH p<0.001, p<0.05, and p<0.01; CAT p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.05, respectively). Superoxide dismutase enzyme levels significantly increased in CrPic group in the liver tissue (p>0.001), but no such changes were observed in heart and kidney tissues (p>0.05).Conclusion: The results obtained from this study indicate that CrPic may be effective in alleviating hyperglycemia and its consequent oxidative damage in experimental Type 2 diabetes.

THE USE OF BLACK SOYBEAN (Glycine max L) EXTRACT AGAINST THE ACTIVITY OF LIVER ENZYMES (AST - ALT) AND ANTIOXIDANT SUPEROXIDE DISMUSTASE (SOD) OF WHITE RAT

Abstract: Strenuous physical activity can increase the activity of enzymes AST (aspartate aminotransaminase) and ALT (alanine aminotransaminase) in the blood as a sign of hepatic dysfunction caused by oxidative stress as a result. Excessive free radicals that damage macromolecules in cells. The supplementation of black soybean (Glycine max L) contains anthocyanin as an antioxidant is expected to reduce the formation of free radicals thus the activity of liver enzymes and the levels of SOD enzymes as intracellular antioxidant can be maintained. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of using extracts of black soybean (Glycine max L) on the activity of liver enzymes (AST-ALT) and the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) of white rats that were given a maximum of physical activity. The research was control group post test design in vivo that used black soya extract treatment given to white rats (Rattus norvegicus) Wistar strain given maximum physical activity. The results indicated black soybean extract 40% was the most powerful retaining the activity of liver enzymes and blood levels of antioxidants SOD. The conclusion is there is an effect of black soybean extract against the activity of liver enzymes (AST-ALT) in rats given maximal activity, whereas SOD enzymes can inhibit the decline of SOD enzyme level to 37.8% but statistically there is no significant influence.Keywords: AST-ALT enzymes; antioxidants SOD; Soybean black; Physical activity maximum.

Anti-Oxidative Potential of Biofield Energy Treatment on Lung Health Using A549 Cells

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in most of the diseases and their complications. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the anti-oxidative potential of Consciousness Energy Healing Treated DMEM medium on the level of protection against oxidative stress and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity using A549 cells. The test item (DMEM) was divided into two parts. One portion was denoted as the untreated DMEM without any Biofield Energy Treatment, while the other portion was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM, which received the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Alice Branton. The cell viability of the test items using MTT assay showed an increase viable cells by 122.60% in the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM, suggesting a safe and nontoxic profile of the test items. Furthermore, the cellular protection against oxidative stress was significantly increased by 60.50% in the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM group compared with the untreated DMEM group. Additionally, the SOD enzyme activity was significantly increased by 38.08% in the Biofield Energy Treated DMEM group compared with the untreated DMEM group. Thus, the overall in vitro lung health data suggest that the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment showed a significant improvement of anti-oxidative potential against oxidative damage caused by free radicals and stress in A549 cells. It is concluded that the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment has the significant capacity to increase the SOD enzyme level (antioxidant activity) along with an improved cellular protection against oxidative damage. Thus, The Trivedi Effect® can be used in various human lung disorders such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung malignancies and parenchymal lung diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and lung granulomatous diseases.

Design and synthesis of novel hybrid sydnonimine and prodrug useful for glaucomatous optic neuropathy.

Synthesis and bioactivity of novel dual acting nitric oxide releasing and reactive oxygen scavenging hybrid compound SA-2 is described. The hybrid molecule SA-2 significantly increased the superoxide dismutase enzyme level and protected the photoreceptor cells from H2O2 induced oxidative stress. Synthesis of ocular esterase sensitive aceloxy alkyl carbamate prodrug SA-4 with improved aqueous half-life is achieved to aid topical ocular formulation. This class of hybrid molecule and prodrug may have dual potential of improved IOP lowering and neuroprotection in glaucomatous optic neuropathy.

S-Sulfocysteine simplifies fed-batch processes and increases the CHO specific productivity via anti-oxidant activity

Industrial fed-batch cultivation of mammalian cells is used for the production of therapeutic proteins such as monoclonal antibodies. Besides medium ensuring initial growth, feeding is necessary to improve growth, viability and antibody production. Established processes include a slight acidic main feed and a separate alkaline feed containing l-tyrosine and l-cysteine. Since l-cysteine is not stable at neutral pH, a new derivative, S-sulfocysteine, was tested in neutral pH feeds. In small scale fed-batch processes, the S-sulfocysteine process yielded a comparable maximum viable cell density, prolonged viability and increased titer compared to the two feed system. Bioreactor experiments confirmed the increase in specific productivity. In depth characterization of the monoclonal antibody indicated no change in the glycosylation, or charge variant pattern whereas peptide mapping experiments were not able to detect any integration of the modified amino acid in the sequence of the monoclonal antibody. Finally, the mechanism of action of S-sulfocysteine was investigated, and results pointed out the anti-oxidative potential of the molecule, mediated through an increase in superoxide dismutase enzyme levels and in the total intracellular glutathione pool. Finally, we propose that the increase in specific productivity obtained in the S-sulfocysteine process results from the anti-oxidative properties of the molecule.

Dose-related antihyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of two novel thiazolidin-4-ones in a rodent model of metabolic syndrome.

The replacement of the thiazolidinedione moiety with a thiazolidinone may yield antidiabetic compounds with similar pleiotropic effects. Hence, the aim of the present study was to explore the dose-related antihyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of two synthesized novel thiazolidin-4-one derivatives, one with a nicotinamide and the other with a p-chlorophenoxyacetamide substitution at the N3 position of the thiazolidinone ring (NAT1 and PAT1, respectively), in a rodent model of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Metabolic syndrome was induced in Wistar rats by neonatal administration of monosodium glutamate (i.p.) on 4 consecutive days followed by high-sucrose diet feeding for 6 months. The effects of NAT1 (33 and 66 mg/kg) and molar equivalent doses of PAT1 (40 and 80 mg/kg) on relevant biochemical parameters were evaluated. Because MetS is a state of chronic low-grade inflammation, we also evaluated the effects of these compounds on proinflammatory markers, namely interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide (NO). Both NAT1 and PAT1 attenuated hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypoalphalipoproteinemia, and glucose intolerance. PAT1 exhibited superior antihyperglycemic and antihypoalphalipoproteinemic effects than NAT1. However, NAT1 had a better triglyceride-lowering effect. At the lower dose tested, both compounds significantly reduced elevated malondialdehyde levels. In addition, PAT1 (80 mg/kg) restored hepatic superoxide dismutase enzyme levels. There was a tendency for NAT1 and PAT1 to inhibit elevated hepatic IL-6 and TNF-α levels, but the differences did not reach statistical significance. In addition, PAT1 exhibited in vitro anti-inflammatory activity by reducing proinflammatory ROS and NO levels in RAW264.7 macrophages. The novel thiazolidin-4-ones NAT1 and PAT1 could be potential pleiotropic drug candidates targeting MetS.

The influence of cigarette smoking on blood and salivary super oxide dismutase enzyme levels among smokers and nonsmokers—A cross sectional study

To determine the influence of smoking on blood and salivary superoxide dismutase enzyme levels among smokers, and to demonstrate the significant alterations in the levels of superoxide dismutase in association with patient age, periodontal disease status, smoking duration, and smoking frequency. This study also aimed to evaluate the use of saliva as a biological fluid for disease diagnosis.Ninety males aged 25–56 years were selected and included 30 smokers, 30 nonsmokers with chronic periodontitis, and 30 healthy controls. Clinical parameters such as the gingival index, pocket depth, and clinical attachment loss were recorded. Blood and saliva samples were collected and superoxide dismutase enzyme levels were analyzed using spectrophotometric assay.Superoxide dismutase enzyme levels in the blood and saliva were significantly higher in smokers than in nonsmokers and the controls (p < 0.05). A significant correlation existed between superoxide dismutase levels and clinical parameters. There was also a significant positive correlation between blood and salivary superoxide dismutase levels among the three groups.Systemic and local antioxidant status is affected by periodontal disease and by the impact of smoking. The increased blood and salivary superoxide dismutase enzyme levels in smokers may be an adaptive defense mechanism to counteract the increased reactive oxygen species production induced by smoking. This study emphasizes the importance of saliva as an easy noninvasive tool in diagnosing patients who are more prone to precancerous lesions and conditions, and its importance in patient education and motivation programs for smoking cessation.

Cardiovascular effects of copper deficiency on activity of superoxide dismutase in diabetic nephropathy.

Background:Copper (Cu) is essential both for its role in antioxidant enzymes, like Cu/zinc (Zn) superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ceruloplasmin, as well as its role in lysyl oxidase, essential for the strength and integrity of the heart and blood vessels. With such a central role in cardiovascular health, Cu has been generally overlooked in the debate over improving our cardiovascular health. Cu deficiency has produced many of the same abnormalities present in cardiovascular disease. It seems almost certain that Cu plays a large role in the development of this killer disease, not because of its excess in the diet, but rather its deficiency.Aim:This study was undertaken to investigate the cardiovascular effects of Cu deficiency on the activity of SOD in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with and without diabetic nephropathy.Materials and Methods:Fifty-five patients with T2DM were recruited in this study which were divided into two subgroups based on the presence of microalbuminuria, the first group (microal buminuric group, n = 31) had a microalbuminuria between 30 and 299 μg/mg. The second group (normoal buminuric group, n = 29) had an albumin level less than 30 μg/mg. The two diabetic groups were compared to the control group (n = 37).Results:The results of our study showed a significant reduction in the levels of SOD enzyme associated with an increased urinary Cu excretion in microalbuminuric group compared to the control group at P < 0.05.Conclusions:The current study illustrates that the regulation of the blood concentrations of Cu may be a potential therapeutic target for prevention and treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

Renoprotective and antioxidant renal effects of cilnidipine in DOCA Salt -Treated Albino Rats

Aim: Cilnidipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB) that blocks both L-type and N- type channels at the smooth muscle in the artery and calcium channels at the presynaptic nerve terminal, respectively. It is dihydropyridine calcium antagonist that possesses a slow-onset, long-lasting vasodilating effect. The present study is designed to determine the effect of cilnidipine on creatinine clearance, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, as an index of lipid peroxidation. Additionally, the level of superoxide dismutase enzyme in erythrocyte lysates and kidney catalase enzyme activitiy will be measured. Thirty-six albino rats are divided into 3 separate groups: rats of group 1 are control group, rats of group 2 are administered by deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) salt sc twice/week + 1% NaCl for 2 weeks to be rendered hypertensive) and group 3 will receive 9 mg/kg cilnidipine for 3 weeks intragastrically after induction of hypertension by DOCA-salt as group 2. Results: DOCA-injected albino rats show marked reduction in creatinine clearance. Treatment with cilnidipine improves creatinine clearance compared to the non-treated hypertensive group 2. Additionally, it reduces thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, as an index of lipid peroxidation, with a significant increase in superoxide dismutase enzyme in erythrocyte lysates and kidney catalase enzyme activities. Conclusion: This study points to the possible beneficial renal protective effects of cilnidipine in hypertensive albino rats injected with DOCA for 2 weeks.

Neuroprotective effect of levetiracetam on hypoxic ischemic brain injury in neonatal rats

Hypoxic-ischemic brain injury that occurs in the perinatal period is one of the leading causes of mental retardation, visual and auditory impairment, motor defects, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and death in neonates. The severity of apoptosis that develops after ischemic hypoxia and reperfusion is an indication of brain injury. Thus, it may be possible to prevent or reduce injury with treatments that can be given before the reperfusion period following hypoxia and ischemia. Levetiracetam is a new-generation antiepileptic drug that has begun to be used in the treatment of epilepsy. The present study investigated the effects of levetiracetam on neuronal apoptosis with histopathological and biochemical tests in the early period and behavioral experiments in the late period. This study showed histopathologically that levetiracetam reduces the number of apoptotic neurons and has a neuroprotective effect in a neonatal rat model of hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in the early period. On the other hand, we demonstrated that levetiracetam dose dependently improves behavioral performance in the late period. Based on these results, we believe that one mechanism of levetiracetam's neuroprotective effects is due to increases in glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase enzyme levels. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to show the neuroprotective effects of levetiracetam in a neonatal rat model of hypoxic-ischemic brain injury using histopathological, biochemical, and late-period behavioral experiments within the same experimental group.

Assessment of the Quality and Shelf-Life in Enriched n3 PUFA Raw Beef Patties Using Dry Soybean Sprouts as Antioxidant

The appearance of fresh meat is a major determinant of its appeal to consumers. Ground beef in retail display oxidizes at a faster rate than whole muscle products; the use of antioxidants to break the radical chain reaction in the oxidation process is an effective method for slowing oxidation. Soybean is a complex matrix with several bioactive compounds, including peptides and proteins, isoflavones, saponins, and other compounds with antioxidant properties. This study was conducted for 1) to evaluate the antioxidant properties of dry soybeans sprouts (DSS) from Glycine max (L.) Merr., MUNASQA?; 2) to evaluate quality characteristics of raw beef patties added with dried soybean sprouts at different levels (0.5%, 1% and 2%) and soybean oil as a replacer of fat; and 3) to estimate color changes and lipid oxidation of n3 fortified raw beef under frozen storage. Results showed that dry soybean sprouts had a high level of superoxide dismutase enzyme, high total phenolics and flavonoids content and appreciable vitamin c content. Although reduction power was low, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-ulphonic acid) (ABTS) radicals scavenging activity were elevated. When different concentrations of DSS were incorporated to enriched beef patties with soybean oil, the nutritional value was slightly affected, while that n3 and n6 fatty acid content were increased around three twice. The beef patties formulated with 1% of natural antioxidant showed significantly (p < 0.05) better color stability than those without antioxidants. The lipid oxidation was inhibited in all cases, and was strongly effective at 1% concentration of DSS being the reduced percent of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) comparable to butilated hydroxianisole (BHA). The results shown in this research suggest that dry soybeans sprouts could also be used as a cheap natural antioxidant source for meat products.

Periodontal health status of heavy and light smokers and its correlation with salivary superoxide dismutase enzyme (A comparative study)

Background: Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gingiva and bone supporting the teeth. Smoking, which is an important risk factor for periodontitis, induce oxidative stress in the body and cause an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD). This study aimed to evaluate the influence of smoking on periodontal health status by estimating the levels of salivary SOD level in non-smokers (controls) and light and heavy smokers and to test the correlation between the SOD enzyme level and the clinical periodontal parameters in each group. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of 75 male, with age ranged from 35 to 50 years. Clinically, the periodontal parameters used in this study were Plaque index (PLI). Gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), Bleeding on probing (BOP) and clinical attachment level (CAL), unstimulated saliva sample were collected from all subjects and the levels of superoxide dismutase enzyme was analyzed for each group , and correlate the mean of salivary enzyme levels with the clinical periodontal parameters. Results: Highly significant differences in PLI between (non smokers/heavy smokers) and (light smokers/heavy smokers).On the other hand no significant difference in gingival index between groups. There were a high association between severity of smoking & probing pocket depth and there is association between severity of smoking and clinical attachment loss. There were a significant difference in the level of salivary superoxide dismutase enzyme between the (non smokers/light smokers) groups & between (heavy smokers/light smokers) &there were highly significant differences between (non smokers/heavy smokers) groups. There is no correlation between the activities of the salivary superoxide dismutase enzyme and the clinical periodontal parameters except in SOD with (BOP score 0 and PPD score 1&score 3) in heavy smokers group. Conclusions: Superoxide dismutase enzyme can be used as biomarker for estimating the level of oxidative stress on

Polycyclic aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons in Chukchi Sea biota and sediments and their toxicological response in the Arctic cod, Boreogadus saida

As part of the Chukchi Sea Offshore Monitoring in Drilling Area-Chemical and Benthos (COMIDA CAB) project, we determined the distribution and concentrations of aliphatic n-alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface sediments (0–1cm) among 52 sites across the Chukchi Sea and in muscle tissues of the benthic Northern whelk, Neptunea heros, collected opportunistically. In addition, downcore profiles of contaminants were determined at three targeted sites to establish historic patterns. Baseline responses of PAH exposure and its potential toxicological effects were examined in the common Arctic cod, Boreogadus saida, through measures of cytochrome P4501A/ ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (CYP1A/EROD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in liver tissue. The total concentration of PAHs in surface sediments throughout the study area, including parent and alkyl-homologs, were very low (<1600ngg−1dry wt) except for a single station, where values were 2–20-fold greater than at other baseline sites (2956ngg−1dry wt). Alkyl-substituted PAHs were the dominant form in all surface (54–93%) and subsurface sediments (50–81% of the total), with a general decrease in total PAH concentrations observed downcore. In biota, larger Neptunea showed lower total concentrations of PAHs in foot muscles (4.5–10.7ngg−1wet wt) compared to smaller animals; yet aliphatic n-alkane (C19–C33) concentrations (0.655–5.20μgg−1wet wt) increased in larger organisms with distributions dominated by long-chain (C23–C33) hydrocarbons. In B. saida, CYP1A1, GST, and SOD enzyme levels were comparable to baseline levels previously reported in other pristine systems. Of the three assays, only SOD had a significant correlation between gene expression and enzyme activity.

The organophosphate chlorpyrifos disturbs redox balance and triggers antioxidant defense mechanisms in JEG-3 cells

IntroductionReactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced by a number of physiological and pathological processes which influence the function of a diverse array of cellular events. An imbalance between ROS generation and elimination was reported for different environmental xenobiotics exposure. Here, we analyzed the effect of chlorpyrifos (CPF) on the JEG-3 cell antioxidant defense in conditions where cell viability and morphology were not altered. MethodsAcetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, reduced glutathione (GSH) content and catalase (CAT) antioxidant enzyme activity were measured by biochemical studies. ROS production was detected using the fluorogenic probe 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. The transcript level of superoxide dismutase enzyme 1 (SOD1), glutathione reductase (GR), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) as well as Nrf2 protein amount were analyzed by quantitative real time PCR and Western blot, respectively. ResultsThe results showed that CPF inhibited AChE activity, induced ROS production, upregulated CAT activity, and decreased GSH concentration. In response to CPF exposure, GR and HO-1 mRNA levels were increased with no changes in SOD1 mRNA. Furthermore, CPF significantly augmented Nrf2 at both mRNA and protein levels trigging the antioxidant status by increasing nuclear Nrf2 translocation. Discussion and conclusionTaken together, these data indicate that JEG-3 cells are able to attenuate the oxidative stress induced by CPF through the adaptive activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway.

OXIDATIVE STRESS STATUS DUE TO METAL EXPOSURE IN WELDING

Introduction: Welding is the most common way of permanently joining metal parts. Several metals commonly present in welding fumes including Cr, Fe, Mn, Cd and Pb which are capable of generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in oxidative stress which in turn leading to disease development. Aim of work: The main objective of this work was to detect the health effect of some metals present in welding fumes. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was carried out on two groups, an exposed group and a control group after taking consent from them. The exposed group consisted of fifty workers occupationally exposed to welding fumes of one of the private factories for Iron and Steel industry at El Asher Men Ramadan, their mean age was 20 to 55 years (34.3 ± 6.9) work shift was for 12 hrs/ 6days/ week. The control group included thirty male person were selected from the industrial medicine outpatient clinic in Kasr Al Aini hospital, who were never exposed to welding fumes matching for age 25 to 50 years(34.5 ± 5.8 ), sex, socioeconomic status and smoking habits. All individuals in both groups were examined after taking consent and interviewed using detailed questionnaire including present, past, family history and occupational history. Clinical examination was performed with special emphasis on chest examination. Ventilatory function tests (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC and PEF) were done. Laboratory investigations were performed : determination of blood levels of the following metals (manganese, iron, lead, chromium and cadmium) and determination of serum level of Superoxide dismutase enzyme (SOD). Results: The prevalence of respiratory tract disorders were significantly higher among the welders (20%)compared to the control group(0%) and statistically significant reduction in values of ventilator y function parameters among the exposed workers compared to control group .The levels of metals showed statistically significant increase among the exposed group more than the control group and statistically significant decrease of superoxide dismutase enzyme level among the exposed group compared to the control group. Conclusion: the level of superoxide dismutase enzyme (SOD) can be a useful biomarker for oxidative status after exposure to welding.

Oxidative Stress and Memory Decline in Adults with Down Syndrome: Longitudinal Study

By the age of 40, virtually all patients with Down syndrome (DS) have neuropathological changes characteristic of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The aim of our study was to investigate whether the levels of superoxide dismutase enzymes (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), or their ratio could predict cognitive decline in people with DS over a 4-year period. Thirty-two adults with DS participated in a longitudinal study with SOD and GPx assays at baseline. Informants rated their functional ability and memory function at baseline and at 4 years follow-up. The more able adults with DS also completed assessments of language skills and memory, at two different time points 4 years apart. Twenty-six individuals with DS completed assessments of memory (Modified Memory Object Task, MOMT), adaptive behavior (ABAS), and receptive vocabulary (British Picture vocabulary, BPVS) at both time-points. SOD positively correlated with change on the MOMT score (r = 0.578, p = 0.015). There were no significant correlations between GPx level or SOD/GPx ratio and temporal changes in ABAS, BPVS, or MOMT scores. Our results suggest that SOD predicts memory decline over time and that these antioxidant enzymes could be a potential target for prevention of memory deterioration in adults with DS. Further research is required to test whether supplements which improve SOD function can also prevent cognitive decline. These findings may also have implications for prevention of cognitive decline in other groups which are at high risk of developing dementia, such as adults with familial AD or mild cognitive impairment.

Activated direct electron transfer of nanoAu bioconjugates of cytochrome c for electrocatalytic detection of trace levels of superoxide dismutase enzyme

A novel amperometric biosensor for the detection of trace levels of superoxide dismutase enzyme is developed with the use of nanoAu bioconjugates of cytochrome c (Cyt c). NanoAu particles of finite size were synthesized by borohydride reduction in the presence of alkanethiols having COOH and OH end groups. The nanoAu particles were characterized by transmission electron microscopic analysis, and the mean size of the nanoparticles is determined to be 2.96nm diameter. The heme protein, Cyt c, is bound to the nanoAu particles, and the resulting nanoAu bioconjugates are investigated by cyclic voltammetric and rotating-disk voltammetric experiments. Cyt c has become electrodically reactive by binding with the nanoAu particles, and Cyt c-bound nanoAu particles exhibited a reversible, mass-transport limited electron-transfer reaction. Reversible redox peaks are observed with the formal redox potential of +0.05V (vs. Ag|AgCl) at bare GC and also at Au|alkanethiolate monolayer electrodes. Cyt c is highly reactive to superoxide radical, and electrocatalytic oxidation of superoxide occurs at the applied potential of +0.15V in the presence of the nanoAu bioconjugates. Steady state current–time curves show a sharp increase in the anodic current to the generation of superoxide radical and attain a plateau in ca. 6min. The structure and morphology of the alkanethiolate layer at the nanoAu-Cyt c interface tremendously influences the electrocatalytic current for superoxide. The electrocatalytic current observed for superoxide radical varied sharply by the presence of superoxide dismutase. From the dependence of the electrocatalytic current for superoxide on the concentration of superoxide dismutase, a low-detection-limit of as low as 0.25UmL−1 (∼50ngmL−1) has been established.

The protective role of ascorbic acid in burn-induced testicular damage in rats

Objective To investigate the ability of ascorbic acid to protect the testes from damage in severe burns. Design Experimental study. Setting University of Lagos Medical School, Department of Anatomy. Animals 28 adult male Wistar rats (250–300 g). Intervention Third degree burn was induced on 40% body surface area of rats and they were given ascorbic acid at 4 mg/kg over 8 weeks. Main outcome measured Weight of reproductive organs and epididymal sperm parameters were measured. Oxidative status was assayed and a semi-quantitative assessment of histologic changes was also carried out. Results Burn caused severe seminiferous tubular damage, especially germ cell loss ( p < 0.05). This was matched by significant reduction in sperm density and morphology ( p < 0.05). Burn also increased oxidative stress, with elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels ( p < 0.01) and changes in catalase and superoxide dismutase enzyme levels. Ascorbic acid prevented the changes in all sperm parameters. It normalized MDA levels ( p < 0.01) and attenuated changes in the levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase. Ascorbic acid treatment also significantly reduced histologic damage to seminiferous tubules. Conclusion This study shows that severe thermal injury causes significant testicular damage and impairs spermatogenesis. It also shows that ascorbic acid protects the testis from such damage and therefore has the potential to be a useful adjunct therapy during treatment of young males with severe burns.

Effects of single-dose morning and evening administration of pravastatin on antioxidant markers in cholesterol-fed rabbits.

BackgroundAccurate timing of statin administration is considered important to obtain the best hypolipidemic effect. Pravastatin is one of the currently prescribed hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, and was chosen in this study to evaluate its antioxidant effect when administered as a single daily dose in the morning versus evening in cholesterol-fed rabbits.MethodsThis 12-week study was performed in New Zealand rabbits, divided into four groups (n = 6 each), ie, normocholesterolemic controls; cholesterol 1% diet, nontreated ; cholesterol 1% diet treated with pravastatin in the morning; and cholesterol 1% diet treated with pravastatin in the evening. Plasma total cholesterol levels, superoxide dismutase enzyme levels in erythrocyte lysates, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance content, catalase, and glutathione enzyme activity in liver homogenates from the tested rabbits were measured.ResultsBoth morning and evening treatment with pravastatin significantly improved all the measured antioxidant markers in comparison with nontreated cholesterol-fed rabbits. However, results obtained with evening dosing were better than with morning dosing.ConclusionThe antioxidant profile of pravastatin is better when the drug is administered in the evening rather than in the morning.

Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status in Colorectal Cancer and Healthy Subject

Background: Total antioxidant status (TAO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) areantioxidant defensive enzymes that are catalyze the reduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to nonharmful substance. Aim: The study focuses on the serum super oxide dismutase enzyme level, CAT level andtotal antioxidant status in colorectal cancer patients, which result due to an imbalance between aggressiveand defensive factors. Materials and Methods: the study included 40 patients and 20 healthy individuals forcomparative analysis were considered for the present study. (TAO), serum (SOD) and (CAT) levels of eachindividual were performed. Results: Statistical analysis of serum antioxidant enzymes level and antioxidantstatus revealed a significant increase in SOD, CAT of patients group (p.≥0.05), and (P.≥0.01) respectively. The TAO was significant increase (p.≥0.001). The increasing preponderance of serum SOD, CAT levelsand the TAO can be explained on the basis of alteration on enzymes activity, which may lead to disturbancein homeostasis of antioxidant/oxidant balance... Conclusions: TAO, Catalase and Superoxide dismutaseenzyme used a biomarker of enzymatic alteration in different diseases including cancer.