A benzimidazolium salt induces apoptosis and arrests cells at sub-G1 phase in epithelial ovarian cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer, also known as a silent killer, is the deadliest gynecological cancer in women worldwide. Epithelial ovarian cancers constitute the majority of ovarian cancers, and diagnosis can be made in advanced stages, which greatly reduces the likelihood of treatment and lowers the survival rate. For the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancers, the search for synthetic agents as well as agents of natural origin continues. The effects of 1-(2-cyanobenzyl)-3-(4-vinylbenzyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-3-ium chloride (BD), a benzimidazole derivative, were investigated on epithelial ovarian cancer cells.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In our study, the effects of BD on proliferation, colony formation, cell death by apoptosis and the cell cycle in A2780 and A2780 Adriamycin (ADR) ovarian cancer cell lines were investigated. Proliferation was examined with cell viability analysis, colony formation and apoptosis with Annexin V staining and cell cycle analyses with PI staining, respectively. As a result of the analyses, BD inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation, induced apoptosis and cell death at 48 h in A2780 and A2780 ADR cells at 10.10 and 10.36 µM concentrations, respectively. In addition, A2780 and A2780ADR cells were arrested in the Sub-G1 phase of the cell cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

BD suppresses cancer cell progression by showing antiproliferative effects on ovarian cancer cells. Further analyses are required to determine the mechanism of action of this agent and to demonstrate its potential as a suitable candidate for the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer.

Histopathological Changes in Liver and Heart Tissue Associated with Experimental Ultraviolet Radiation A and B Exposure on Wistar Albino Rats

This study aims to evaluate the influences of ultraviolet radiation A and B (UVA + B) exposure on the liver and heart organs of albino rats. Female Wistar Albino rats, whose hair of the dorsal skin was shaved, were exposed to a combined UVA + B radiation for 2 h/day, for 4 weeks in order to be compared with the control group. Histopathological findings in vital organs (liver and heart) were evaluated. Tissues were fixed in 10% buffered formalin (pH = 7.2) and embedded in paraffin. The histopathological findings were examined on the H&E stained sections with light microscopy. The results show that the liver and the heart were injured in the UVA + B group. Liver tissue in the UVA + B group showed minimal vacuolation, enlargement of hepatocytes and bile duct proliferation, and the heart tissue showed hibernomas; uniform large cells resembling brown fat with coarsely granular to multivacuolated cytoplasm that is eosinophilic or pale with a small central nucleus. The number of hibernoma cases was significantly higher in the UVA + B group compared with the control group (P = 0.021). The control group showed normal liver and heart histology with normal adipose tissue in the pericardium. As a result, UVA + B exposure has toxic effects, especially on the liver and the heart of Wistar albino rats. UV radiation may cause such adverse effects in humans. Therefore, protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation is of significant importance for skin and organs.

Silibinin and ellagic acid increase the expression of insulin receptor substrate 1 protein in ultraviolet irradiated rat skin

Daily exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light induces inflammation and tumorigenesis in the skin. Silibinin and ellagic acid are natural products that exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-tumorigenic properties. Insulin receptor substrate protein 1 (IRS1) is important for skin homeostasis and physiology, but its activity following UV radiation remains unclear. We investigated the effects of ellagic acid and silibinin on IRS1 expression in ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiated rat skin. Forty-two female Wistar rats were divided randomly into six groups of seven animals. The dorsal skin of rats was exposed to UVA + UVB, then treated with ellagic acid and silibinin by gavage. IRS1 expression in skin tissues was determined by western blot analysis. IRS1 expression increased significantly following treatment with ellagic acid and silibinin in UVA + UVB irradiated skin compared to the UVA + UVB only group. After UVA + UVB treatment, ellagic acid effected greater induction of IRS1 expression than silibinin. Our findings suggest that the photoprotective roles of ellagic acid and silibinin may be due to induction of IRS1 expression in UVA + UVB treated rat skin.

Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Role of Novel Synthesized Cu(II) Complex with 3-(3-(4-fluorophenyl)Triaz-1-en-1-yl) Benzenesulfonamide in Common Cancer Models

BACKGROUND/AIM

Chemotherapeutic treatment options are often ineffective due to the development of resistance in cancer cells. Therefore, developing new anti-cancer agents is crucial for cancer treatment. Some triazine derivatives, their complexes and Copper(II) have anti-cancer effects on cancer cells. In this study, we aimed to determine the anti-proliferative effect of the novel synthesized Cu(II) complex with 3-(3-(4-fluorophenyl)triaz-1-en-1-yl) benzene-sulfonamide compound on the common cancer cell lines HeLa, MDA-MB-231, A2780 and MCF7.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Common cancers cell lines were treated with copper complexes. Cell viability and apoptotic gene expression were examined.

RESULTS

Novel synthesized copper complex led to decreased viability of all cell lines. It also induced apoptosis via increasing the expression of caspase-3, caspase-9, Bax and p53 proteins and decreasing ERK expression.

CONCLUSION

The novel synthesized copper complex has a significant inhibitory effect on the viability of cancer cell lines and can be considered as an antitumor agent for further studies.

Protective Effects of Selenium, N-Acetylcysteine and Vitamin E Against Acute Ethanol Intoxication in Rats

The aim of this study was to determine possible protective influences of selenium (Se), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and vitamin E (Vit E) against acute ethanol (EtOH) intoxication. Thirty-six rats were divided into six groups: I (control), II (EtOH), III (EtOH + Se), IV (EtOH + Vit E), V (EtOH + NAC), and VI (EtOH + mix). Except group I, EtOH was given the other pretreated (groups III, IV, V, and VI) and untreated groups (group II). Compared with the EtOH group, serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and creatine kinase-MB levels were significantly decreased in all pretreated groups, whereas slightly diminished amylase and lipase were observed. Compared with the control group, a remarkably lower total antioxidant status (TAS), but higher total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) were seen in brain, liver, and kidney tissues. The values of these parameters were less affected from EtOH-exposed brain tissue of EtOH + NAC and liver of EtOH + mix groups. Both significant decrease of catalase activity and marked increases of adenosine deaminase and myeloperoxidase were determined only in liver tissue of the EtOH group. Activities of these enzymes were restored in almost all pretreated groups. Moreover, an increase of xanthine oxidase activity was prevented in brain tissue of pretreated groups. In histopathological examination of the liver, hydropic degeneration, sinusoidal dilatation, mononuclear cell infiltration, and marked congestion, which were seen in the EtOH group, were prevented in all pretreated groups. Relative protection against acute EtOH toxicity, in both single and combined pretreatments of Se, NAC, and Vit E supplementation, was probably through antioxidant and free radical-neutralizing effects of foregoing materials.

Rosacea and exposure to tandoor heat: Is there an association?

BACKGROUND

Particularly in eastern and southeastern regions of Turkey, women use tandoor ovens to bake bread and as a result are exposed to excessive heat. Exposure to heat for long periods may lead to the initiation or exacerbation of rosacea.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a relationship between exposure to heat from a tandoor and rosacea.

METHODS

A total of 350 female patients with various dermatological diseases were included in this study. These patients were divided into two groups comprising a control group and a group of tandoor users. Subjects in both the control and tandoor-user groups were screened to identify clinical and other characteristics, and symptoms and findings of rosacea and other dermatological disorders.

RESULTS

The frequency of rosacea was significantly (P < 0.001) higher and that of acne markedly (P < 0.001) lower in the tandoor-user group than in the control group. Incidences of temporary and persistent types of erythema and telangiectasia, which are considered to be among the symptoms and findings of rosacea, were also significantly (P < 0.001) higher in the tandoor-user group than the control group. Frequencies of asthma and ex-smoker status differed significantly (P < 0.001 and P < 0.002, respectively) between the tandoor-user and control groups. Furthermore, the period of exposure to tandoor heat was positively correlated with the frequency of telangiectasia (r = 0.321, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed a strong association between exposure to tandoor heat and rosacea. Further studies including higher numbers of patients are required to confirm our results.

Anthocyanin-rich extract from Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx counteracts UVC-caused impairments in rats

CONTEXT

Ultraviolet radiation (UV) was reported to cause oxidative stress. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Malvaceae) calyx is commonly used in traditional Asian and African medicines and possesses strong antioxidant capacity due to its anthocyanin (ANTH) content.

OBJECTIVE

This study researched the possible protective role of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract (HSCE) in UVC exposure of rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Levels of serum enzymes, renal function tests, and some oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers of skin, lens, and retina tissues were monitored. Rats were exposed to UVC 4 h daily for 40 d and simultaneously received HSCE containing 2.5, 5, and 10 mg doses of ANTH in drinking water.

RESULTS

Significant (p < 0.05) increases in the levels of serum aminotransferases, lactate dehydrogenase, urea, creatinine, and uric acid were noted after UVC exposure. In skin, lens, and retina tissues, total oxidant status, oxidative stress index, lipid peroxidation, and protein oxidation escalated markedly (p < 0.05) whereas total antioxidant status, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase decreased dramatically (p < 0.05) related to UVC. Co-administration of HSCE with each ANTH dose significantly (p < 0.05) reversed aforementioned parameters (except total oxidant status) almost in all tissues. The LD50 of HSCE in rats was determined to be above 5000 mg/kg.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our data revealed that HSCE has a remarkable potential to counteract UVC-caused impairments, probably through its antioxidant and free radical-defusing effects. Therefore, HSCE could be useful against some cutaneous and ocular diseases in which UV and oxidative stress have a role in the etiopathogenesis.

Assessment of the serum paraoxonase activity and oxidant/antioxidant status in patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis

OBJECTIVES

Several studies have indicated that recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is associated with oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to investigate serum paraoxonase (PON) activity and oxidant/antioxidant status in patients with RAS.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Thirty-one patients with RAS and 31 healthy controls were enrolled. Serum PON1 and arylesterase activities, total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant status, and oxidative stress index were determined.

RESULTS

Serum total antioxidant capacity levels, PON1, and arylesterase activities were significantly lower in RAS than controls (P < 0.001), while total oxidant status levels and oxidative stress index were significantly higher (P < 0.001). PON1 activity had a significant correlation with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol only (r = 0.482, P < 0.05), while there were no correlations with other lipids (P > 0.05) in patients with RAS.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that RAS is associated with decreased PON1 activity and increased oxidative stress that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of RAS. Further studies on a larger number of patients are needed to verify these results.

Comparison of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and adenosine deaminase activities between respiratory and nocturnal subtypes of patients with panic disorder

OBJECTIVE

There is mounting evidence indicating that oxidative and inflammatory processes may have an important role in the pathogenesis of panic disorder (PD). PD is a heterogeneous disease, and panic attacks are divided according to the different symptom clusters as respiratory, nocturnal, non-fearful, cognitive, or vestibular subtypes. The aim of this study was to compare whole-blood and serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase and adenosine deaminase activities in PD patients with/without nocturnal, respiratory subtypes and healthy subjects.

METHODS

The study was conducted including 60 patients with PD and 30 healthy control subjects. The Panic Attack Symptom Checklist, Panic and Agoraphobia Scale, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale were administered to the patients. Biochemical analyses were performed after all the blood samples were collected.

RESULTS

We found that whole-blood SOD and glutathione peroxidase activities of patients were significantly lower and adenosine deaminase activities of patients were higher than those of healthy controls. There were no statistically significant differences between respiratory and nocturnal subtypes. In addition, there were no marked relationships between the duration of illness and panic-agoraphobia scores of patients with nocturnal subtypes. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale scores of patients with the nocturnal subtype were markedly higher than those of patients without the nocturnal subtype.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that oxidative and inflammatory processes may play a role in the pathophysiology of PD. These findings may support the idea that both nocturnal and respiratory subtypes of PD have different symptom clusters of the same disease.

Serum paraoxonase activity and oxidative status in subjects with alopecia areata

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have suggested that oxidative stress may play an important role in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata (AA) but these reports are limited and conflicting.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity and oxidative status in subjects with AA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-nine subjects with AA and 39 healthy controls were enrolled. Serum PON1 activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) were determined.

RESULTS

Serum TAC levels and PON1 activity were significantly lower in the subjects with AA than controls (p = 0.038, p = 0.001, respectively), whereas TOS levels and OSI were significantly higher (both, p = 0.001) in the subjects with AA.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that reduced PON1 activity may be related to increased oxidant and decreased antioxidant levels. These data indicated that oxidant/antioxidant imbalance may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of AA.

Beneficial influence of topical extra virgin olive oil application on an experimental model of penile fracture in rats

Penile fracture (PF) is known as a traumatic rupture of the tunica albuginea of corpus cavernosum. In this study, we aimed to investigate the healing influence of topical extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on PF through evaluating levels of some oxidative stress biomarkers for the first time. Histopathological evaluation was also realized. A total of 18 male Sprague-Dawley albino rats were divided into three groups of six rats each as control group, in PF (alone) group, and PF + EVOO group. Experimental PF was formed via incising from the proximal dorsal side of the penis in the rats of all groups except control. While in PF (alone) group, fracture was formed and the incision was primarily closed, in PF + EVOO group in addition to foregoing processes, EVOO was also administrated topically twice a day for 3 weeks. At the end of the experiment, all rats were killed and penectomy was carried out. While malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase, lipid hyroperoxide, and total oxidant status significantly (p < 0.05) increased, reduced glutathione and total free sulfhydryl groups markedly (p < 0.05) decreased in PF (alone) group when compared with PF + EVOO group. Levels of these parameters were reversed to nearly normal values by topical EVOO application. Protection by EVOO is further substantiated via the improved histological findings in PF + EVOO group as against degenerative changes in the rats of PF (alone) group. Our data revealed that EVOO has protective effect in penile cavernosal tissue through probably its antioxidant, free radical defusing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.

Oxidative stress in patients with primary insomnia

OBJECTIVE

Many physiological and pathological processes, such as infections, environmental toxins, and ionizing radiation increase bodily concentrations of oxidizing substances, known as free radicals, which lead to neurodegenerative disorders. Sleep is one of the most important factors contributing to health; however, insomnia is among the most prevalent health complaints.

METHODS

In this study, for the first time in the literature, we investigated the effects of primary insomnia on certain oxidative stress biomarkers. For this purpose, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities and levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in 30 patients with primary insomnia and 30 healthy volunteers

RESULTS

Our results show that the patients with primary insomnia had significantly lower GSH-Px activity and higher MDA levels compared with the controls.

CONCLUSION

These results may indicate the important role of sleep in attenuating oxidative stress.

Oxidative status and its relation with insulin resistance in young non-obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress may play a role in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Insulin resistance (IR) also can be found in young non-obese women with PCOS. Hyperglycemia may increase reactive oxygen species production and decrease antioxidant levels.

AIM

To investigate oxidative status and its relation with IR in young non-obese patients with PCOS.

MATERIAL/SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Thirty-one patients with hyperinsulinemic (no.=13) and normoinsulinemic (no.=18) PCOS and 29 healthy controls were included in this study. Serum levels of glucose, insulin, gonadotropins, total testosterone, DHEAS, SHBG, 2-h plasma glucose on oral glucose tolerance test, malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), reduced glutathione (GSH), β carotene, vitamin A, C, E and the enzyme activities of catalase and glutathione S-transferase (GST), IR [by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)-IR], and β cell function [by HOMA-B] were assessed.

RESULTS

Serum glucose, insulin, total testosterone, DHEAS, HOMA-IR levels, and LH/FSH ratios were higher in young non-obese women with PCOS. Serum MDA and PC levels were also higher but GSH, vitamin C and E levels, and GST enzyme activity were lower in these women than in healthy controls, independently of the status of IR (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Oxidative stress characterized by increased oxidants and decreased antioxidant levels which are independent of IR may be involved in the pathogenesis of PCOS in young non-obese women.

Serum myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activities in polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate serum myeloperoxidase (MPO) and adenosine deaminase activities and to investigate whether there was a correlation between these and sex hormones, and lipids in polycystic ovary syndrome.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Forty-five women with polycystic ovary syndrome and 40 healthy controls were included in this study. Leukocyte counts, serum MPO and adenosine deaminase activities, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), sex hormone and lipid levels were assessed.

RESULTS

Leukocyte counts and serum MPO activities were higher (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) and there was a significant correlation between serum adenosine deaminase and hs-CRP level in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (r = 0.853, p < 0.01). Serum MPO and adenosine deaminase levels did not correlate with sex hormones or lipid profiles in these patients.

CONCLUSION

Polycystic ovary syndrome may involve an inflammatory process by increasing serum MPO activity independent of sex hormones, body mass index and lipid profiles.

Increased oxidative stress in patients with familial Mediterranean fever during attack period

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the status of oxidant and antioxidants during attack period (AP) and attack free periods (AFP) in Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) patients.

METHODS

Measured the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), glutathione (GSH) and antioxidant vitamins (A,C and E) as well as the activities of catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in serum and whole blood of FMF patients in FMF-AP and FMF-AFP.

RESULTS

Levels of MDA and PC were found significantly higher (p <0.05) both in serum and whole blood of FMF-AP group compared with other groups. The CAT and GSH-Px activities in FMF-AP group were found markedly lower (p <0.05) comparing to HC group. However, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of antioxidant vitamin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated increased oxidative stress in patients with FMF during AP. Investigations are needed to establish the effect of antioxidant supplementation on FMF attack frequency and severity. We also suggest that these increased MDA and PC levels and decreased antioxidants may be used as supportive markers to differentiate AP from AFP. These conclusions need to be validated in further multicenter studies with high number of FMF patients.

Photoprotective effect of flax seed oil (Linum usitatissimum L.) against ultraviolet C-induced apoptosis and oxidative stress in rats

The aim of this study is to determine antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects of flax seed oil (FSO) on rats exposed to ultraviolet C (UVC). Malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels as well as glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were measured in lens, skin and serum. In addition, β-carotene, vitamin A, C and E contents were measured in serum, while apoptosis was determined in retina. Rats were divided into three groups as control, UVC and UVC + FSO. UVC and UVC + FSO groups were exposed to UVC light for 1 h twice a day for 4 weeks. FSO (4 ml/kg bw) was given by gavage before each irradiation period to the UV + FSO group. While MDA and PC levels of the UVC group increased compared to the control group, their levels decreased in the UVC + FSO group compared with the UVC group in skin, lens and serum. Skin GSH level decreased significantly in the UVC and UVC + FSO groups. As GPx and SOD activities of the UVC group were lower, their activities were higher in the UVC + FSO group in skin, lens and serum. There was only marked elevation of vitamin A level in the UVC group compared to the control group. Apoptosis increased in the UVC group and the UVC + FSO groups in retina. However, retinal apoptosis were lower in the UVC + FSO group compared with the UVC group. This investigation demonstrated that UVC exposure led to oxidative stress and apoptosis in rats as reflected by increased MDA, PC contents and decreased enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant levels, FSO may be useful for preventing photoreactive damage.

Subacute effect of cigarette smoke exposure in rats: protection by pot marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) extract

This study was carried out to determine the preventive effect of Calendula officinalis L. (pot marigold) on rats exposed to cigarette smoke (CS). Rats were divided into three groups as control, CS and CS + pot marigold (PM). The rats in the CS and CS + PM groups were subjected to CS for 1 h twice a day for 23 days. PM (100 mg/kg body weight) was given to rats in the CS + PM group by gavage, 1 h before each administration period. While malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl contents and reduced glutathione level of the CS group increased, their levels diminished by PM administration. In addition, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase activities and β-carotene, vitamins A and C levels decreased in the CS group compared to control, however activities of these enzymes and concentration of vitamins were elevated by PM supplementation. This investigation showed that administration of PM supplied relative protection against subacute CS-induced cell injury.

Gastroprotective effect of small centaury (Centaurium erythraea L) on aspirin-induced gastric damage in rats

The aim of this study was to determine the antiulcer and antioxidant activities of Centaurium erythraea L (small centaury) in aspirin (ASA) induced acute gastric ulcer model. The gastroprotective effect of the 50% aqueous-ethanolic small centaury (SC) extract was investigated in rats at a dose of ASA 200 mg/kg body weight. Twenty-one Sprague-Dawley albino rats were divided into three groups of seven rats each as follows: (1) control group; (2) acute ASA-treated group and (3) ASA plus SC group. At the end of the 4-h drug administration, ulcer index, oxidant and antioxidant levels were measured and compared between the groups. The percentage of lesion area to total gastric surface area (ulcer index) was significantly reduced (77%) in ASA plus SC group as compared with acute ASA-treated group. The oral administration of ASA decreased catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels. Although myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was increased by ASA, it was found to be lower in the ASA plus SC group. GSH and Vitamin A levels were determined higher in the ASA plus SC group compared with ASA group. These results suggest that SC extract protects against ASA-induced damage due to its antioxidizing activity.

Relationship between anti-CCP antibodies and oxidant and anti-oxidant activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE/AIM

A new group of autoantibodies in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), the anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies directed to citrulline-containing proteins, which are of value for the severity of RA. Up to date, the relationship between anti-CCP antibodies and oxidant, anti-oxidant activity in patients with RA has not been elucidated in the previous studies. In this study we aimed to investigate the effect of anti-CCP antibodies in the circulation on whole blood, serum and synovial fluid oxidant and anti-oxidant activity in patients with RA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RA patients with anti-CCP (+) (n=25) and anti-CCP (-) (n=24) were recruited into the study. All patients had a positive rheumatoid factor (RF). The patients who were under treatment with only non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAID) at the study time included in the study. Catalase (CAT), Glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx), Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities and the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in whole blood, serum and synovial fluid in both groups.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in terms of the mean whole blood and serum antioxidative activity (CAT, GSHpx) and the mean blood and serum MDA and MPO values (oxidative activity), between the patients with anti-CCP(+) and those with anti-CCP(-). There was increased synovial oxidant activity (MDA and MPO levels) (p<0.05) in anti-CCP(+) RA patients with or without ESR negativity when compared with anti-CCP(-) RA patients. There was positive correlation between anti-CCP antibody levels and synovial MDA and MPO levels (r=0.435, p<0.05, r=0.563, p<0.05 respectively) in anti-CCP (+) group.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, anti-CCP antibody positivity seems to be associated with increased synovial fluid oxidant activity (increased MDA and MPO levels) in patients with RA. These conclusions need to be validated in a larger controlled study population.

Increased occupational coal dust toxicity in blood of central heating system workers

Coal dust causes lung diseases in occupational exposure. Reactive oxygen species have been implicated in the pathogenesis of its toxicity. In this study, serum enzymes, lipid profile and other biochemical values with oxidant/antioxidant status in whole blood and serum of central heating system workers (CHSW; the persons responsible for heating the apartment with coal) were determined to reflect the cell injury. Blood samples were obtained from CHSW (n = 25) and healthy individuals (n = 25). All values were measured in whole blood and serum. ANOVA was used for the estimation of statistical data. In the group of CHSW, creatinine, ferritin, alanin aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine phosphokinase, gamma glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase and glutathione reductase activities as well as triglyceride, very low density lipoprotein, protein carbonyl and malondialdehide were significantly higher, while transferrin, high density lipoprotein and catalase (CAT) activities were lower than the group of healthy individuals. This result is consistent with hypothesis that respirable coal dust generates lipid and protein oxidation and induces leakage of serum enzymes by cell damage. It also leads to imbalance in antioxidant defense system, lipid profile and other biochemical parameters.