Total Antioxidant Status Values Research Articles

Effects of anxiety and depression symptoms on oxidative stress in patients with alopecia areata.

IntroductionIncreased oxidative stress (OXS) and a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders are seen in alopecia areata (AA). However, OXS and psychiatric disorders have been studied separately in AA patients.AimTo determine the effects of anxiety and depression symptoms on OXS in AA patients.Material and methodsThe anxiety and depression levels of 33 AA patients and 33 normal controls (NC) were determined using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated by measuring serum total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) levels in AA patients and NC.ResultsThe AA patients had higher anxiety and depression scores than NC (p < 0.001 for both). Total oxidant status (p = 0.002) and OSI (p < 0.001) values were higher, and TAS (p < 0.001) levels were lower, in patients with AA compared to NC. However, patients’ anxiety and depression scores were not correlated with the TAS, TOS, or OSI values (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in TAS, TOS, or OSI values between patients with high and low anxiety or depression scores (p > 0.05).ConclusionsThese results show that OXS, anxiety, and depression scores were higher in patients with AA compared to NC. However, anxiety and depression scores were not associated with OXS in AA patients. More extensive studies should be performed to investigate the relationship between psychological status and OXS in patients with AA.

Evaluation of serum prolidase enzyme activity and oxidative stress in patients with tinnitus

IntroductionTinnitus is defined as the perception of sound in the head or in the head in the absence of external sounds. The cause of tinnitus is still unknown. ObjectiveWe aimed to compare the serum levels of total oxidant status, total antioxidant status, serum prolidase enzyme activity and the oxidative stress index in patients with tinnitus to those of normal subjects. MethodsTwenty five patients with tinnitus (mean age 34.3) and 25 healthy controls (mean age 37.2) were included in the study. ResultsTotal oxidant status levels in the patient group were significantly higher than in the control group (p=0.037). The mean total oxidant status value was 2.54±0.95mmoL/L in the patient group, and 2.06±0.98mmoL/L in the control group. The mean oxidative stress index level was 0.22±0.10AU in the patient group, while it was 0.17±0.08AU in the control group. Oxidative stress index was significantly higher in the patient group (0.026). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of total antioxidant status values (p=0.838). The mean serum prolidase enzyme activity level was 202.74±33.56U/L in the patient group and 175.46±42.68U/L in the control group. Serum prolidase enzyme activity levels in the patient group were significantly higher than in the control group (0.040). ConclusionWe detected that the total oxidant status, oxidative stress index and serum prolidase enzyme activity levels were higher in patients with tinnitus when compared to the healthy controls. This finding suggests that oxidative stress index and serum prolidase enzyme activity may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of tinnitus.

Biomarkers of oxidative stress in pregnant women with recurrent miscarriages

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the markers of oxidative stress (OS), as well as the magnesium (Mg) concentration, pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) values in patients with previous recurrent miscarriages, with the purpose of comparing the level of OS with normal pregnancy. Methods The study was conducted as a prospective study, which included a total of 95 pregnant women divided into two groups. In the study group (n = 35), there were women with at least three consecutive previous miscarriages. The control group (n = 60) consisted of healthy pregnant women without previous miscarriages and complications in pregnancy. Blood samples were taken between the 11th and 14th weeks of gestation, and the values of superoxide dismutase (SOD-1), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total antioxidant status (TAS) in the serum, as well as the Mg concentration, PAPP-A and β-hCG values were determined. Results The values of SOD and GHS-Px were statistically higher in the study group, while the values of TAS were statistically significantly higher in the control group. The values of the Mg concentration were statistically significantly higher in the control group, while the values of β-hCG were statistically significantly higher in the study group. When the study group was divided into subgroups according to the outcome of pregnancy, there were statistical differences in the level of GSH-Px, SOD between miscarriages and the term delivery group, as well as in the Mg concentration between miscarriages and the term delivery group and between the term and preterm delivery groups. Higher values of SOD and GHS-Px, and lower values of TAS and Mg concentration could be used as markers for the prediction of spontaneous miscarriages. Conclusions The results of this research indicated higher OS and exhaustion of antioxidant mechanisms in early pregnancy in a group with recurrent miscarriages. Also, lower values of serum Mg concentration could be one of the markers for the prediction of spontaneous miscarriages.

Systemic oxidative stress in non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy

To investigate whether the serum total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and thiol parameters could play a role in the pathogenesis of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-AION). In this study, 18 newly diagnosed NA-AION patients and 17 healthy subjects (control group) were included. Serum plasma TOS and TAS, AOPP, and thiol parameters were measured by spectrophotometric method and the results were compared. Mean age of the patients and the controls were 60.8 ± 8.4 and 61.9 ± 9.4 years, respectively (p = 0.729). There were no significant differences between the patients and the control group with regard to the values of TAS, TOS, AOPP, and thiol (p = 0.869, p = 0.863, p = 0.040, p = 0.314; respectively). There was a positive correlation between TOS and thiol (p = 0.002, r = 0.681). We found no significant relationship between systemic oxidative parameters and NA-AION. However, this study should be accepted as a pilot investigation and needs to be validated.

Assessment of Oxidative Stress in Patients with Sudden Hearing Loss: A Non-randomized Prospective Clinical Study.

The etiology of sudden hearing loss (SHL) has not been fully elucidated. Previous studies claimed that different etiological factors may play a role in the pathogenesis of SHL. The aim of the present study is to investigate the presence of oxidative stress (OS) in SHL cases using thiol-disulfide balance. In addition, total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI) and lipid hydroperoxide levels (LOOH) were investigated. A total of 30 cases (15 female, 15 male, mean age 48.9 ± 8.1years, age range: 36-68years) were included in the study. Thiol and disulfide amounts, thiol/disulfide ratios, TOS, TAS, OSI and LOOH scores of the case group and control group were compared. Native thiol (SH) and total thiol (SH + SH) values were significantly lower in the SHL group than in the control group (p = 0.028 and p = 0.044, respectively). The LOOH value, TOS value and OSI value were significantly higher in the SHL group than in the control group (all p values < 0.05). The TAS value was significantly lower in the SHL group than in the control group (p = 0.0001). The present study has presented that the thiol-disulfide balance was impaired in SHL cases. OS may play a role in the development of SHL.

The value of plasma SCUBE1 and oxidative stress parameters in the early diagnosis of acute ovarian torsion.

The purpose of our study was to determine the diagnostic value of plasma SCUBE1, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant status (TAS) investigated on the 4th hour of ovarian torsion, and at the same time to determine the relation between these markers and histopathological damage occurring in the ovary. Sixteen rats were included, eight in the torsion group and eight in the control group. The right ovaries of the rats in the torsion group were rotated clockwise 720 degrees, after which they were fixed and attached to the abdominal wall. The abdominal walls of the control group rats were opened for 1 min and then closed. Relaparotomy was performed 4 h after surgery in both groups, blood specimens were collected for biochemical analyses, and the right ovaries were surgically extracted. No statistically significant difference was determined in the control and torsion groups' plasma SCUBE1, SOD and TAS values (p = 0.987, p = 0.33, and p = 0.244, respectively). Torsion group plasma MDA values were significantly higher than those of the control group (p = 0.039). At histopathological evaluation, histological score, apoptotic index and Caspase-3 index values of the torsion group were significantly higher compared to the control group. Plasma SCUBE1 is not useful in the early diagnosis of ovarian torsion. Similarly, use of the oxidative stress markers SOD and TAS does not appear useful in early diagnosis, although MDA may be considered for that purpose (Tab. 2, Fig. 3, Ref. 23).

Apple intake improves antioxidant parameters in hemodialysis patients without affecting serum potassium levels

Oxidative stress (OS) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients, and the consumption of fruits seems to improve OS due to their antioxidant properties. Therefore, we hypothesized that Fuji apple intake improves OS markers in HD patients due to its polyphenolic compounds without increasing serum potassium levels. This trial was a 1-group, pre- and posttest comparison between 16 patients who had been on hemodialysis for at least 3 months without any acute illness or hyperkalemia. Each volunteer consumed 2 Fuji apples (~360 g) per day for 1 week. Blood samples were collected at the baseline period and after 8 days for the measurement of total antioxidant status, ascorbic acid, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, total oxidant status, oxidative stress index, potassium, phosphorus, uric acid, glucose, and fructosamine. For tolerance evaluation, participants were asked about their bowel habits. Apple intake increased glutathione peroxidase (P = .006) and superoxide dismutase activities (P = .006) and ascorbic acid levels (P = .002). No significant changes were observed in uric acid, potassium, phosphorus, glucose, and fructosamine levels. Additionally, there was a decrease in the catalase activity (P = .021) and in the total antioxidant status values (P = .004). However, increased total oxidant status (P = .003) and oxidative stress index (P = .033) levels were observed after apple intake. In conclusion, the intake of 2 Fuji apples per day for 1 week was well tolerated and improved antioxidant parameters in HD patients without affecting serum potassium levels.

What is the protective effect of krill oil on rat ovary against ischemia-reperfusion injury?

In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effect of krill oil (KO) against ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury on rat ovary. This study was conducted with 32 Wistar Albino rats. Rats were divided into four groups, with eight rats in each group-as follows: Sham group, I/R group, I/R + low dose KO group (50 mg) and I/R + high dose KO group (500 mg). The histopathological and follicle counts were performed on the right ovary. The total antioxidant status, total oxidant status and oxidative stress index were evaluated on the left ovary. And also serum N-thiol level, serum T-thiol level, serum disulfide (SDS) level, serum disulfide/N-thiol and serum disulfide/T-thiol ratios were evaluated too. A statistically significant difference was determined between the I/R group and all the other groups for all parameters. There was significant difference between KO groups and the Sham group for the parameters of serum N-thiol, serum T-thiol, SDS, serum disulfide/N-thiol and serum disulfide/T-thiol. SDS, total oxidant status and oxidative stress index were determined to be the highest in the I/R group and the lowest in the low dose KO group. The total antioxidant status values were found to be the highest in the high dose KO group and the lowest in the I/R group. Follicle counts and histological injury scores showed no significant difference between Sham and KO groups. This study demonstrated that KO has beneficial effects on decreasing the injury after I/R on rat ovary.

An immune response-based approach to evaluate physiological stress in rehabilitating loggerhead sea turtle

The sea turtles maintaining in rescue centres can cause physiological stress to the animals with subsequent effects, such as the imbalance of immune system components. It is therefore crucial to investigate how innate immune responses are influenced by stress within recovery centers with the aim to use them as primary tools for the evaluation of the rescued specimens’ health status and for developing more effective conservative strategies. In this study we monitored for the first time different immune responses in hospitalized Mediterranean loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) (n = 88), comparing them with free-ranging animals (n = 11). The final scope was to identify sensitive tools based on immune responses parameters that rescue centers operators could use to verify the stress condition of hospitalized specimens. Blood samples were obtained from loggerhead sea turtles hospidalized for different periods (≤2 months; >2 months and ≤1 year; >1 year) in various Italian rescue centers. Free-ranging turtles were captured in the South of Spain during a shipboard survey with a minimal invasive technique. Samples were analyzed for different stress-associated parameters (white cells count, heterophils:lymphocytes (H:L) ratio, respiratory burst, total antioxidant status (TAS), lysozyme). Free-ranging specimens showed lower values for most of the measured parameters. The highest values of TAS, lysozyme activity, respiratory burst and leukocytes profile were detected during the first 2 months of hospitalization, that resulted as the most critical period for the rehabilitation of turtles. After more than 1 year, immune values were similar to the values of free-ranging, indicating an acclimatization to captivity and health conditions amelioration. Moreover, monocytes low levels and eosinophils significant decrease in hospitalized animals indicated the absence of chronic inflammations and reduction of parasitic load during rehabilitation. Statistical analysis pointed out that lysozyme activity and eosinophyls count represent valid methods to diagnose physiological stress and inflammation in hospitalized loggerhead sea turtles.

L-proline supplementation improves nitric oxide bioavailability and counteracts the blood pressure rise induced by angiotensin II in rats

We evaluated whether l-proline (Pro) supplementation improves redox status and nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and prevents or delays angiotensin II (AngII)-induced hypertension.Male Sprague-Dawley rats were distributed to four experimental groups: Pro + AngII (Pro-Ang), Pro + Saline (Pro-Sal), Vehicle + AngII (Veh-Ang) and Veh + Saline (Veh-Sal). Pro solution (2 g.kg−1·day−1) or water (vehicle) were orally administered, from day 0 to day 21. AngII (200 ng.kg−1.min−1) or saline were infused (s.c.) from day 7 to day 21. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured by the tail-cuff method. From day 20–21, animals were kept on metabolic cages for 24h-urine collection. On day 21, urine and blood were collected for further quantification of redox status biomarkers, NO-related markers (urinary nitrates and nitrites, U-NOx; plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine, P-ADMA), metabolic and renal parameters.Pro prevented the AngII-induced SBP rise [mean (95% CI), Day 19: Pro-AngII, 137 (131; 143) vs. Veh-AngII, 157 (151; 163) mm Hg, P < 0.001]. Pro-AngII rats also had increased values of U-NOx, systemic and urinary total antioxidant status (TAS), urinary H2O2 and plasma urea, as well as reduced P-ADMA and unaltered urinary isoprostanes. Plasma Pro was inversely correlated with P-ADMA (r = −0.52, p = 0.0009) and positively correlated with urinary TAS (r = 0.55, p = 0.0005) which, in turn, was inversely correlated with P-ADMA (r = −0.56, p = 0.0004). Furthermore, urinary H2O2 values decreased across P-ADMA tertiles (p for linear trend = 0.023).These results suggest that Pro reduces P-ADMA levels and improves redox status, thereby increasing NO bioavailability and counteracting the AngII-induced SBP rise. H2O2 and TAS modulation by Pro may contribute to the reduced P-ADMA concentration.

Oxidant and antioxidant levels and DNA damage in tuberous sclerosis

ObjectiveThe pathogenesis of inherited diseases is thought to involve oxidative stress and the associated DNA damage, which are also implicated in many other conditions including cancer. Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic disease with autosomal dominant inheritance pattern that is characterized by the development of hamartomas in multiple organ systems. Oxidative stress and the related DNA damage are also likely to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of this condition. Thus, our study aimed to assess total oxidant-antioxidant level, oxidative stress index and DNA damage in patients diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis. MethodsThe study included 30 patients with tuberous sclerosis between the ages of 0 and 16 years. The control group consisted of 29 age-matched healthy children. Blood samples obtained from each subject were centrifuged to separate the sera. The Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) and Total Oxidant Status (TOS) were measured in serum samples with a Thermo Scientific Multiscan plate reader (FC, 2011-06, USA) at wavelengths of 240 nm and 520 nm, respectively. The measured TAS and TOS values were used to calculate the Oxidative Stress Index (OSI). In addition, the Comet Assay Method was used to determine DNA damage in the samples. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. ResultsPatients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) and controls were compared with respect to TAS, TOS, and OSI. TAS was significantly lower (p < 0.01), while TOS and OSI were significantly higher (p < 0.01, for both) in patients as compared to controls. In addition, patients had significantly higher DNA damage as shown by the Comet Assay (p < 0.01). ConclusionsIncreased oxidative stress and DNA damage may contribute to the pathogenesis of tuberous sclerosis.

Investigation of Antioxidant/Oxidant Status and Antimicrobial Activities of Lentinus tigrinus.

In the present study, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of the Lentinus tigrinus (Bull.) Fr. mushroom was determined. Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) of the mushroom were measured with Rel Assay kits. Antimicrobial activities were tested on 9 standard bacterial and fungal strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus aureus MRSA, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Candida albicans, Candida krusei, and Candida glabrata) with a modified agar dilution method. It was determined that the TAS value of L. tigrinus was 1.748 ± 0.071, TOS value was 19.294 ± 0.237, and OSI was 1.106 ± 0.031. It was also found that mushroom extracts generally exhibited higher activity on Candida albicans, C. krusei, and C. glabrata. In conclusion, it was suggested that L. tigrinus can be used as a natural source due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.

Evaluation of oxidant status in both systolic and diastolic heart failure

Objective: Oxidative stress status in subgroup of heart failure (HF) syndrome still remains unknown. We aimed to study Total Antioxidant Status (TAS), Total Oxidant Status (TOS) and Oxidative Stress Index (OSI) in both systolic and diastolic HF, and also in both ischemic and non-ischemic HF. Materials and Methods: Consecutive 123 chronic HF patients were included in this cross-sectional study. Group 1 consisted of 73 systolic HF patients (50 ischemic patients and 23 non-ischemic patients) and group 2 consisted of 50 diastolic HF patients. As a control group (group 3), 37 healthy subjects were included. Echocardiographic evaluation was performed and TAS, TOS and OSI were studied in all patients. Results: The highest TAS value (1.10±0.24) was found in Group 1, but the lowest in Group 2 (0.90±0.14). Diastolic HF group had the highest TOS value (37.2±10.41) while systolic HF group (32.9±7.26) and control group (26.19±8.00) followed it. OSI was found the highest in diastolic HF group (4.37±1.24) and the lowest in systolic HF group (2.24±0.80). TOS and OSI were similar between ischemic and non-ischemic subgroups of systolic HF but TAS was statistically higher in non-ischemic (p:0.0005). Conclusions: We found higher oxidative stress in HF patients, predominantly in diastolic HF patients. The difference between diastolic and systolic HF with regard to oxidative and antioxidative status seems to come from distinct drugs usage between the groups, which have potential effects on oxidative and antioxidative parameters. To reduce, at least, oxidative stress in diastolic HF patients, medical therapy is needed.

Hematobiochemical profiles, mineral concentrations and oxidative stress indicators in beef cattle with pica

Pica, or “depraved appetite”, is defined as ingestion of non-nutritive substances. Many factors influencing pica in animals have been identified , but the etiology is controversial. This study was conducted to evaluate haematological and biochemical parameters, trace element concentrations, the total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidative status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) in beef cattle with and without pica. Ten beef cattle with pica (group I) and another ten healthy beef cattle (Group II) were used in the study. Serum TAS and TOS were measured by a colorimetric method. In group I, haemoglobin value and serum iron, copper and selenium concentrations were significantly lower than those of group II (p < .05). Cortisol level and the other biochemical parameters were not statistically different between the groups (p > .05). Compared to the healthy controls mean TAS values were significantly decreased in the group I (p < .05), whereas the TOS and OSI values did not differ statistically between the two groups (p > .05). Parasitological analysis revealed that Trichostrongylidae spp eggs were more common in group I. In conclusion, serum iron, copper and selenium deficiency with decreased antioxidant capacity may cause the symptoms of pica in beef cattle. Prophylactic use of trace mineral supplement containing iron, copper, selenium and antioxidants in beef cattle may be beneficial in preventing deviated appetite and in strengthening the antioxidant defence system.

Effects of topical application of platelet-rich plasma on esophageal stricture and oxidative stress after caustic burn in rats: Is autologous treatment possible?

BackgroundCaustic esophageal burn is still an important health problem in pediatric surgery. Although there are a number of experimental and clinical studies to increase the recovery of the esophagus and reduce the stenosis rate, there is no consensus on the treatment protocol. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood product, which has positive effects on wound healing, reepithelization and scar prevention. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of PRP on stricture formation and oxidative status after caustic esophageal injury in rats. MethodsTwenty-one rats were divided into three groups [Sham operation (n = 8), corrosive esophageal burn with 30% NaOH (n = 6), topical PRP application after corrosive burn (n = 7)]. On the postoperative 21st day, oxidative markers were measured in the serum, and collagen accumulation and stenosis index were measured histopathologically to assess the efficacy of PRP treatment. ResultsPostoperative weight was higher than preoperative weight in Sham and PRP groups, but lower in the Burn group (p < 0.05). No difference was observed between Sham and PRP groups at total antioxidant status and paraoxonase values, but a significant decrease was found in the Burn group. Group PRP had higher total oxidant status and arylesterase levels than Group Burn (p < 0.05). There was no difference in total thiol values between PRP and Sham group. Histopathological scoring for muscularis mucosa damage revealed a significant reduction in Group PRP, compared to Group Burn (p < 0.05). Esophageal wall thickness and SI were reduced, and luminal diameter was increased in Group PRP compared to Group Burn (p < 0.05). ConclusionFor the first time in the literature, these results indicate that topical PRP treatment after the experimental corrosive burn has a positive effect on oxidative stress, mucosal healing and decreased stricture development. PRP may be an alternative at the clinical treatment because it can be used during diagnostic esophagoscopy. Type of studyTreatment study Level I (randomized controlled trial).

Effect of Antioxidant Supplementation on Total Antioxidant Status in Indian Children with Type 1 Diabetes

ABSTRACTHyperglycemia results in the overproduction of free oxygen radicals that impair the endogenous antioxidant defenses. A randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effect of 3 months of antioxidant supplementation in the form of foods rich in micronutrients with pharmacological supplement on total antioxidant status of Indian children with type 1 diabetes. Ninety children with diabetes (mean age 11.5 ± 3.6 yrs, 37 boys) were randomly allocated to three groups: Group 1 (n = 31) = DM controls; Group 2 (n = 30) = multimicronutrient syrup; and Group 3 (n = 29) = dietary supplements (nine snack recipes rich in micronutrients). They received intervention for 3 months. Healthy controls were enrolled from local schools. Fasting blood was tested for total antioxidant status (TAS) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C). Children with diabetes had lower TAS (0.70 ± 0.2 vs. 1 ± 0.24 mmol/l, p = .0001) compared to healthy controls. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were similar at baseline for all groups of diabetic children. Group 1 showed significant deterioration in TAS at endline (0.72 ± 0.16 vs. 0.60 ± 0.17 mmol/l, p = .008). Increase in TAS recorded in Group 2 was from 0.66 ± 0.21 to 0.70 ± 0.16 mmol/l and in Group 3 was from 0.68 to 0.73 mmol/l. There was a significant difference between Group 1 and Group 3 for percentage change in TAS (−13% vs. 16%, p = .035). Postsupplementation there was an increase in TAS values in children with diabetes, but they were still lower than in healthy controls. Indian diabetic children have compromised antioxidant status, which may be improved by incorporation of multimicronutrient-rich recipes in their diets.

The value of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers (GRP78 and CHOP) in the diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia

AimTo evaluate levels of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers GRP78 and CHOP in acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) and to examine relations with degrees of AMI-related intestinal injury. Materials and methodsTwenty-four rats were divided into four groups. Group I and Group III represented the control groups, from which blood and tissue specimens were collected 2 and 6 h after laparotomy without superior mesenteric artery (SMA) ligation. Group II and Group IV constituted the ischemia groups, from which blood and tissue specimens were collected 2 and 6 h after SMA ligation. The ER stress markers GRP78 and CHOP, total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), and the oxidative stress index (OSI) were investigated in each group. Ileum specimens were assessed in terms of ischemic injury, and appropriate comparisons were performed. ResultsSignificantly higher GRP78, CHOP, TOS, and TAS values were determined in the ischemia groups (groups II and IV) compared to the control groups (groups I and III). This elevation was greater in the 6 h ischemia group, the group exposed to the greatest ischemic injury (Group IV). Significant and powerful correlation was present between histopathological damage and levels of the ER stress markers and oxidative markers. ConclusionAccording to our results, ER stress markers (GRP78 and CHOP) increase significantly following ischemic injury. This elevation has the potential to be used diagnostically and also in prognostic terms due to the powerful correlation it exhibits with AMI-related ischemic injury.

Effects of Cichorium intybus on serum oxidative stress, liver and kidney volume, and cyclin B1 and Bcl-2 levels in the brains of rats with ethanol induced damage

We investigated the effects of an aqueous root extract of Cichorium intybus on Bcl-2 and cyclin B1 levels in the brain, kidney and liver volumes and changes of serum total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) levels in ethanol induced damage in rats. The rats were divided into five groups: non-treated controls (C), maltodextrin in tap water treated (MD), 6.4% ethanol in tap water treated (ET), Cichorium intybus + maltodextrin in tap water treated (CI+MD), and Cichorium intybus + 6.4% ethanol in tap water treated (CI+ET). Rats in the CI+MD and CI+ET groups were treated with 200 mg/kg water extract of Cichorium intybus. Chronic ethanol aMDinistration significantly increased cyclin B1 and decreased Bcl-2 levels in the brain and significantly decreased TAS values, increased TOS values of serum and significantly decreased kidney volume in the ET group. There was no significant difference in the liver volume or liver cell count. Our data revealed that ethanol aMDinistration induces an overexpression of cyclin B1 and decreases levels of Bcl-2 in rat brains and induced oxidative stress in the blood. C. intybus treatment possessed a partial amelioration effect on cyclin B1 levels and TAS values.

The Association of Serum Iron-BindingProteins and the Antioxidant Parameter Levels in Age-Related MacularDegeneration

ABSTRACTPurpose: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of the irreversible central visual loss among the elderly in the developed countries. Iron is considered a potent generator of the oxidative damage whose levels increase with age, potentially exacerbating the age-related diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the serum values of iron, and iron-binding proteins (transferrin, ferritin, and haptoglobin) in patients with AMD along with the parameters of the antioxidant defense: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase, and total antioxidant status (TAS), in order to analyze the possible impact of iron and iron-binding proteins to the development of oxidative stress in AMD patients, and the association of the selected parameters with the AMD. In addition, the aim was to examine the gender differences and calculate the cutoff points of tested parameters that could be associated with AMD.Material and methods: A cross-sectional study included 55 AMD patients aged 71.7 ± 7.36 years and 65 aged-matched control subjects aged 70.25 ± 6.46 years.Results: Significantly lower ferritin (P = 0.025), SOD (P = 0.026), GPx (P = 0.019), and TAS (P < 0.004) values were found in patients with AMD compared to the controls (P < 0.05). Significant association of GPx < 27 U/gHb (odds ratio [OR]: 1.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.78–2.10; P = 0.049), TAS < 1.25 mmol/L (OR: 5.77; 95% CI 0.98–367.0; P < 0.000), ferritin < 84.8 pg/mL (OR: 2.52; 95% CI 1.37–4.62; P = 0.002), and haptoglobin<1.51 g/L (OR: 1.94; 95% CI 1.05–3.56; P = 0.031) was found with the AMD. According to receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, ferritin concentration <84.8 pg/L, GPx < 27 U/gHb, and TAS < 1.25 mmol/L have sufficient predictive ability for AMD.Conclusion: Significantly reduced capacity of the antioxidant defense system and iron-binding storage proteins (ferritin) found in AMD could have an important role in the development of increase oxidative stress in AMD patients.

PRO-OXIDANTS AND ANTIOXIDANTS IN RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY.

SUMMARY – Premature infants are susceptible to oxidative stress that causes neonatal disease such as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of pro-oxidants and the ability of the body to detoxify their harmful effects by antioxidants. The proliferative phase 2 ROP occurs at around 33rd postmenstrual week (pmw). The purpose of our study was to evaluate the pro-oxidant/antioxidant status in preterm infants at 33rd pmw. The study included 59 premature infants. ROP was classified according to the International Classification of Retinopathy of Prematurity. Total oxidative status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity were determined spectrophotometrically. The values of the pro-oxidants TOS and MDA were significantly higher in infants with ROP as compared to infants without ROP (p<0.05 both). There were no significant differences in the values of TAS and PON1 between the infants with and without ROP. According to study results, TOS and MDA are good markers of oxidative stress, whereas TAS and PON1 activity are unreliable in assessing antioxidant protection.