Requirement for, promotion, or inhibition by alpha-tocopherol of radical-induced initiation of plasma lipoprotein lipid peroxidation

Oxidative Stress, Antioxidants and Hypertension

As a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, hypertension remains a serious threat to global public health. Despite the availability of many antihypertensive medications, several hypertensive individuals are resistant to standard treatments, and are unable to control their blood pressure. Regulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) controlling blood pressure, activation of the immune system triggering inflammation and production of reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative stress and redox-sensitive signaling, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Thus, besides standard antihypertensive medications, which lower arterial pressure, antioxidant medications were tested to improve antihypertensive treatment. We review and discuss the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of hypertension and the potential use of antioxidants in the management of hypertension and its associated organ damage.

Structural Features of Small Molecule Antioxidants and Strategic Modifications to Improve Potential Bioactivity

This review surveys the major structural features in various groups of small molecules that are considered to be antioxidants, including natural and synthetic compounds alike. Recent advances in the strategic modification of known small molecule antioxidants are also described. The highlight is placed on changing major physicochemical parameters, including log p, bond dissociation energy, ionization potential, and others which result in improved antioxidant activity.

Vitamin C supplementation for diabetes management: A comprehensive narrative review

Growing evidence suggests that vitamin C supplementation may be an effective adjunct therapy in the management of people with diabetes. This paper critically reviews the current evidence on effects of vitamin C supplementation and its potential mechanisms in diabetes management. Evidence from meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) show favourable effects of vitamin C on glycaemic control and blood pressure that may be clinically meaningful, and mixed effects on blood lipids and endothelial function. However, evidence is mostly of low evidence certainty. Emerging evidence is promising for effects of vitamin C supplementation on some diabetes complications, particularly diabetic foot ulcers. However, there is a notable lack of robust and well-designed studies exploring effects of vitamin C as a single compound supplement on diabetes prevention and patient-important outcomes (i.e. prevention and amelioration of diabetes complications). RCTs are also required to investigate potential preventative or ameliorative effects of vitamin C on gestational diabetes outcomes. Oral vitamin C doses of 500-1000 mg per day are potentially effective, safe, and affordable for many individuals with diabetes. However, personalisation of supplementation regimens that consider factors such as vitamin C status, disease status, current glycaemic control, vitamin C intake, redox status, and genotype is important to optimize vitamin C's therapeutic effects safely. Finally, given a high prevalence of vitamin C deficiency in patients with complications, it is recommended that plasma vitamin C concentration be measured and monitored in the clinic setting.

Impact of Phenol-Enriched Olive Oils on Serum Metabonome and Its Relationship with Cardiometabolic Parameters: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Cross-Over, Controlled Trial

Phenol-rich foods consumption such as virgin olive oil (VOO) has been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases. The broader biochemical impact of VOO and phenol-enriched OOs remains, however, unclear. A randomized, double-blind, cross-over, controlled trial was performed with thirty-three hypercholesterolemic individuals who ingested for 3-weeks (25 mL/day): (1) an OO enriched with its own olive oil phenolic compounds (PCs) (500 ppm; FOO); (2) an OO enriched with its own olive oil PCs (250 ppm) plus thyme PCs (250 ppm; FOOT); and (3) a VOO with low phenolic content (80 ppm). Serum lipid and glycemic profiles, serum ¹H-NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics, endothelial function, blood pressure, and cardiovascular risk were measured. We combined OPLS-DA with machine learning modelling to identify metabolites discrimination of the treatment groups. Both phenol-enriched OO interventions decreased the levels of glutamine, creatinine, creatine, dimethylamine, and histidine in comparison to VOO one. In addition, FOOT decreased the plasma levels of glycine and DMSO2 compared to VOO, while FOO decreased the circulating alanine concentrations but increased the plasma levels of acetone and 3-HB compared to VOO. Based on these findings, phenol-enriched OOs were shown to result in a favorable shift in the circulating metabolic phenotype, inducing a reduction in metabolites associated with cardiometabolic diseases.

Azocompounds as generators of defined radical species: Contributions and challenges for free radical research

Peroxyl radicals participate in multiple processes involved in critical changes to cells, tissues, pharmacueticals and foods. Some of these reactions explain their association with degenerative pathologies, including cardiovascular and neurological diseases, as well as cancer development. Azocompounds, and particularly AAPH (2,2'-Azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride), a cationic water-soluble derivative, have been employed extensively as sources of model peroxyl radicals. A considerable number of studies have reported mechanistic data on the oxidation of biologically-relevant targets, the scavenging activity of foods and natural products, and the reactions with, and responses of, cultured cells. However, despite the (supposed) experimental simplicity of using azocompounds, the chemistry of peroxyl radical production and subsequent reactions is complicated, and not always considered in sufficient depth when analyzing experimental data. The present work discusses the chemical aspects of azocompounds as generators of peroxyl (and other) radicals, together with their contribution to our understanding of biochemistry, pharmaceutical and food chemistry research. The evidence supporting a role for the formation of alkoxyl (RO•) and other radicals during thermal and photochemical decomposition of azocompounds is assessed, together with the potential influence of such species on the reactions under study.

Effects of Virgin Olive Oil and Phenol-Enriched Virgin Olive Oils on Lipoprotein Atherogenicity

The atherogenicity of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) may be more significant than LDL cholesterol levels. Clinical trials which have led to increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol have not always seen reductions in cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, genetic variants predisposing individuals to high HDL cholesterol are not associated with a lower risk of suffering a coronary event, and therefore HDL functionality is considered to be the most relevant aspect. Virgin olive oil (VOO) is thought to play a protective role against CVD. This review describes the effects of VOO and phenol-enriched VOOs on lipoprotein atherogenicity and HDL atheroprotective properties. The studies have demonstrated a decrease in LDL atherogenicity and an increase in the HDL-mediated macrophage cholesterol efflux capacity, HDL antioxidant activity, and HDL anti-inflammatory characteristics after various VOO interventions. Moreover, the expression of cholesterol efflux-related genes was enhanced after exposure to phenol-enriched VOOs in both post-prandial and sustained trials. Improvements in HDL antioxidant properties were also observed after VOO and phenol-enriched VOO interventions. Furthermore, some studies have demonstrated improved characteristics of TRL atherogenicity under postprandial conditions after VOO intake. Large-scale, long-term randomized clinical trials, and Mendelian analyses which assess the lipoprotein state and properties, are required to confirm these results.

Attenuation of lipopolysaccharide-induced lung inflammation by ascorbic acid in rats: Histopathological and ultrastructural study

Introduction:

Lipopolysaccharide is a bacterial endotoxin that induces acute lung injury in experimental animals, which is similar to acute respiratory distress syndrome in humans. The induced tissue trauma ends in fibrosis. Understanding the pathogenesis is important in the prevention and treatment of the complications. This study was assigned to investigate the long-term lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury and the postulated protective effect of ascorbic acid on these changes.

Materials and methods:

Twenty-four adult male albino rats were divided into three groups. Group I was the controls, group II received lipopolysaccharide and group III received lipopolysaccharide and ascorbic acid. After 30 days of starting treatment, lung tissue samples were obtained.

Results:

Group II lung tissues showed marked thickening of the alveolar septa with collapsed alveolar sacs, detached bronchial epithelium, inflammatory cell infiltration and excessive deposition of collagen. Group III showed mild thickening of the alveolar walls, scanty inflammatory cell infiltration, mild parabronchial fibrosis and less marked collagen deposition. α-Smooth muscle actin staining of group II showed marked expression of the actin-positive cells. Less potential expression of the dye was found in group III. Ultrastructural examination of group II showed evident structural changes in pneumocytes with capillary basement membrane irregularity and interruption compared to uniform basement membrane in group III with less prominent intracellular changes in pneumocytes.

Conclusion:

Ascorbic acid attenuated the inflammatory response and fibrosis in the lungs of rats treated with lipopolysaccharide as evidenced by the histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies.

Comparative analysis of plasma total antioxidant capacity in patients with hyperglycemia and hyperglycemia plus dyslipidemia

AIMS

The aim of this study was to measure plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in order to assess the oxidative stress status and the antioxidant defense system in patients with hyperglycemia and both hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty blood samples of hyperglycemia, 60 blood samples of both hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia and 60 blood samples of normoglycemia and normolipidemia (controls) were collected into study. All samples were measured for the levels of plasma TAC and SOD by colorimetric method using microtiter-plate reader.

RESULTS

Plasma TAC significantly decreased in patients with hyperglycemia (0.42 ± 0.1 mM) and both hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia 0.41 ± 0.1 mM) compared to those of controls (0.47 ± 0.14) (P < 0.05), whereas plasma SOD significantly increased in patients with hyperglycemia (81.0 ± 17.9 U/ml) and both hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia (83.7 ± 21.3 U/ml) compared to those of controls (73.7 ± 17.4 U/ml) (P < 0.05). However, the levels of plasma TAC and SOD had no significant difference between patients with hyperglycemia and both hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study showed the significant difference of plasma TAC and SOD levels in hyperglycemic patients with and without dyslipidemia compared to those of controls. There was no additive or synergistic effect in terms of decreased plasma TAC levels and elevated SOD activities between hyperglycemic patients with and without dyslipidemia.

N-Acetylcysteine as an antioxidant and disulphide breaking agent: the reasons why

The main molecular mechanisms explaining the well-established antioxidant and reducing activity of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), the N-acetyl derivative of the natural amino acid l-cysteine, are summarised and critically reviewed. The antioxidant effect is due to the ability of NAC to act as a reduced glutathione (GSH) precursor; GSH is a well-known direct antioxidant and a substrate of several antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, in some conditions where a significant depletion of endogenous Cys and GSH occurs, NAC can act as a direct antioxidant for some oxidant species such as NO₂ and HOX. The antioxidant activity of NAC could also be due to its effect in breaking thiolated proteins, thus releasing free thiols as well as reduced proteins, which in some cases, such as for mercaptoalbumin, have important direct antioxidant activity. As well as being involved in the antioxidant mechanism, the disulphide breaking activity of NAC also explains its mucolytic activity which is due to its effect in reducing heavily cross-linked mucus glycoproteins. Chemical features explaining the efficient disulphide breaking activity of NAC are also explained.

Absence of the biliverdin reductase-a gene is associated with increased endogenous oxidative stress

Bilirubin, a byproduct of heme catabolism, has been shown to be an effective lipid-soluble antioxidant in vitro. Bilirubin is able to inhibit free radical chain reactions and protects against oxidant-induced damage in vitro and ex vivo. However, direct evidence for bilirubin's antioxidant effects in vivo remains limited. As bilirubin is formed from biliverdin by biliverdin reductase, we generated global biliverdin reductase-a gene knockout (Bvra^-/-) mice to assess the contribution of bilirubin as an endogenous antioxidant. Bvra^-/- mice appear normal and are born at the expected Mendelian ratio from Bvra^+/- x Bvra^+/- matings. Compared with corresponding littermate Bvra^+/+ and Bvra^+/- animals, Bvra^-/- mice have green gall bladders and their plasma concentrations of biliverdin and bilirubin are approximately 25-fold higher and 100-fold lower, respectively. Naïve Bvra^-/- and Bvra^+/+ mice have comparable plasma lipid profiles and low-molecular weight antioxidants, i.e., ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol and ubiquinol-9. Compared with wild-type littermates, however, plasma from Bvra^-/- mice contains higher concentrations of cholesteryl ester hydroperoxides (CE-OOH), and their peroxiredoxin 2 (Prx2) in erythrocytes is more oxidized as assessed by the extent of Prx2 dimerization. These data show that Bvra^-/- mice experience higher oxidative stress in blood, implying that plasma bilirubin attenuates endogenous oxidative stress.

Antioxidant defenses in human blood plasma and extra-cellular fluids

I had the fortune to be introduced to Helmut Sies during the mid 1980s, while working as a post-doctoral scientist at the University of California, Berkeley. At that time, Helmut was a frequent visitor of the Bruce Ames' laboratory and a leading authority in antioxidants and oxidative stress. His concepts, ideas and willingness to listen and make constructive suggestions have been far-reaching and visionary. Moreover, they have also been highly infectious, so much so that much of my research to this day has been on the same topic. The following is a personal recount on how the field of antioxidants has evolved since those exciting days in Berkeley.

Kinetic Study of Aroxyl-Radical-Scavenging and α-Tocopherol-Regeneration Rates of Five Catecholamines in Solution: Synergistic Effect of α-Tocopherol and Catecholamines

Detailed kinetic studies have been performed for reactions of aroxyl (ArO(•)) and α-tocopheroxyl (α-Toc(•)) radicals with five catecholamines (CAs) (dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (EN), and 5- and 6-hydroxydopamine (5- and 6-OHDA)) and two catechins (epicatechin (EC) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)) to clarify the free-radical-scavenging activity of CAs. Second-order rate constants (ks and kr) for reactions of ArO(•) and α-Toc(•) radicals with the above antioxidants were measured in 2-propanol/water (5:1, v/v) solution at 25.0 °C, using single- and double-mixing stopped-flow spectrophotometries, respectively. Both the rate constants (ks and kr) increased in the order NE < EN < DA < EC < 5-OHDA < EGCG < 6-OHDA. The ks and kr values of 6-OHDA are large and comparable to the corresponding values of ubiquinol-10 and sodium ascorbate, which show high free-radical-scavenging activity. The ultraviolet-visible absorption of α-Toc(•) (λmax = 428 nm), which was produced by the reaction of α-tocopherol (α-TocH) with ArO(•), disappeared under the coexistence of CAs due to the α-TocH-regeneration reaction. The results suggest that the CAs may contribute to the protection from oxidative damage in nervous systems, by scavenging free radicals (such as lipid peroxyl radical) and regenerating α-TocH from the α-Toc(•) radical.

Quantitation of Albumin in Serum Using "Turn-on" Fluorescent Probe with Aggregation-Enhanced Emission Characteristics

An aggregation-enhanced emission active luminogen named as sodium 4,4'4″-(3,4-diphenyl-1H-pyrrole-1,2,5-triyl)tribenzoate (DP-TPPNa) with propeller construction was synthesized and developed as a "turn on" fluorescent probe for in situ quantitation of albumin in blood serum. The DP-TPPNa fluorescence intensity was linearly correlated with the concentration of two serum albumins, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA), in pure PBS buffer in the ranges of 2.18-70 and 1.68-100 μg/mL, respectively. The detection limits were as low as 2.18 μg/mL for BSA and 1.68 μg/mL for HSA. The response time of fluorescence to serum albumin (SA) was very short (below 6 s), which achieved real-time detection. It also showed high selectivity to SA because other components in serum barely interfere with the detection of DP-TPPNa to SA, enabling in situ quantitative detection of SA without isolation from serum. DP-TPPNa was successfully applied for the quantitative detection of BSA in fetal bovine serum. The mechanism of fluorescent turn-on behavior was elucidated utilizing an unfolding process induced by guanidine hydrochloride, which revealed a capture process via selective hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding between luminogen and SA.

Can gas replace protein function? CO abrogates the oxidative toxicity of myoglobin

Outside their cellular environments, hemoglobin (Hb) and myoglobin (Mb) are known to wreak oxidative damage. Using haptoglobin (Hp) and hemopexin (Hx) the body defends itself against cell-free Hb, yet mechanisms of protection against oxidative harm from Mb are unclear. Mb may be implicated in oxidative damage both within the myocyte and in circulation following rhabdomyolysis. Data from the literature correlate rhabdomyolysis with the induction of Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1), suggesting that either the enzyme or its reaction products are involved in oxidative protection. We hypothesized that carbon monoxide (CO), a product, might attenuate Mb damage, especially since CO is a specific ligand for heme iron. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) was chosen as a substrate in circulation and myosin (My) as a myocyte component. Using oxidation targets, LDL and My, the study compared the antioxidant potential of CO in Mb-mediated oxidation with the antioxidant potential of Hp in Hb-mediated oxidation. The main cause of LDL oxidation by Hb was found to be hemin which readily transfers from Hb to LDL. Hp prevented heme transfer by sequestering hemin within the Hp-Hb complex. Hemin barely transferred from Mb to LDL, and oxidation appeared to stem from heme iron redox in the intact Mb. My underwent oxidative crosslinking by Mb both in air and under N₂. These reactions were fully arrested by CO. The data are interpreted to suit several circumstances, some physiological, such as high muscle activity, and some pathological, such as rhabdomyolysis, ischemia/reperfusion and skeletal muscle disuse atrophy. It appear that CO from HO-1 attenuates damage by temporarily binding to deoxy-Mb, until free oxygen exchanges with CO to restore the equilibrium.

Endothelium and its alterations in cardiovascular diseases: life style intervention

The endothelium, which forms the inner cellular lining of blood vessels and lymphatics, is a highly metabolically active organ that is involved in many physiopathological processes, including the control of vasomotor tone, barrier function, leukocyte adhesion, and trafficking and inflammation. In this review, we summarized and described the following: (i) endothelial cell function in physiological conditions and (ii) endothelial cell activation and dysfunction in the main cardiovascular diseases (such as atherosclerosis, and hypertension) and to diabetes, cigarette smoking, and aging physiological process. Finally, we presented the currently available evidence that supports the beneficial effects of physical activity and various dietary compounds on endothelial functions.

Kinetic study of aroxyl radical scavenging and α-tocopheroxyl regeneration rates of pyrroloquinolinequinol (PQQH2, a reduced form of pyrroloquinolinequinone) in dimethyl sulfoxide solution: finding of synergistic effect on the reaction rate due to the coexistence of α-tocopherol and PQQH2

Measurements of aroxyl radical (ArO•)-scavenging rate constants (ks AOH) of antioxidants (AOHs: pyrroloquinolinequinol (PQQH2), α-tocopherol (α-TocH), ubiquinol-10 (UQ10H2), epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epigallocatechin gallate, and caffeic acid) were performed in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solution, using stopped-flow spectrophotometry. The ks AOH values were measured not only for each AOH but also for the mixtures of two AOHs ((i) α-TocH and PQQH2 and (ii) α-TocH and UQ10H2). A notable synergistic effect that the ks AOH values increase 1.72, 2.42, and 2.50 times for α-TocH, PQQH2, and UQ10H2, respectively, was observed for the solutions including two kinds of AOHs. Measurements of the regeneration rates of α-tocopheroxyl radical (α-Toc•) to α-TocH by PQQH2 and UQ10H2 were performed in DMSO, using double-mixing stopped-flow spectrophotometry. Second-order rate constants (kr) obtained for PQQH2 and UQ10H2 were 1.08 × 105 and 3.57 × 104 M−1 s−1, respectively, indicating that the kr value of PQQH2 is 3.0 times larger than that of UQ10H2. It has been clarified that PQQH2 and UQ10H2 having two HO groups within a molecule may rapidly regenerate two molecules of α-Toc• to α-TocH. The result indicates that the prooxidant effect of α-Toc• is suppressed by the coexistence of PQQH2 or UQ10H2.

Effects of hyperoxia on the permeability of 16HBE14o- cell monolayers--the protective role of antioxidant vitamins E and C

The use of hyperoxia for critically ill patients is associated with adverse impacts resulting in lung injury accompanied by inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate aspects of mechanisms that contribute to hyperoxia-induced disruption of the epithelial permeability barrier, and also the protective effects of the antioxidants α-tocopherol and ascorbate. 16HBE14o- cells were cultured as monolayers at an air-liquid interface for 6 days, after which transepithelial electrical resistance reached 251.2 ± 4.1 Ω.cm(2) (mean ± standard error of the mean). They were then exposed for 24 h to normoxia (21% O2, 5% CO2), hyperoxia (95% O2, 5% CO2), hyperoxia with 10(-7) M α-tocopherol, hyperoxia with 10(-7) M ascorbate, hyperoxia with 10(-6) M ascorbate, and hyperoxia with a combination of α-tocopherol and ascorbate (10(-7) M and 10(-6) M, respectively). Significant reductions (P < 0.05) in transepithelial electrical resistance seen after hyperoxia (with or without antioxidants) were associated with reductions in the levels of zona occludens-1 (ZO-1) observed by immunohistochemistry, and downregulation of ZO-1 expression (P < 0.01) as compared with normoxia. In contrast, the expression levels of interleukin (IL)-8, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were increased after hyperoxia (P < 0.01), and marked increases in the levels of these cytokines (ELISA) were seen in the medium (P < 0.001) as compared with normoxia. The antioxidant vitamins E and C had a partial protective effect against the hyperoxia-induced reduction in ZO-1 levels and the increase in levels of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-8, IL-6, and TNF-α. In conclusion, hyperoxia-induced epithelial disruption is associated with tight junction weakening, and induction of a proinflammatory environment.

Differential effects of topical vitamin E and C E Ferulic® treatments on ultraviolet light B-induced cutaneous tumor development in Skh-1 mice

Because of the ever-increasing incidence of ultraviolet light B (UVB)-induced skin cancer, considerable attention is being paid to prevention through the use of both sunscreens and after sun treatments, many of which contain antioxidants. Vitamin E is included as an antioxidant in many sunscreens and lotions currently on the market. Studies examining the efficacy of vitamin E as a topical preventative agent for UVB-induced skin cancer have yielded conflicting results. A likely contributor to differences in study outcome is the stability of vitamin E in the particular formulation being tested. In the current study we examined the effects of topical vitamin E alone as well as vitamin E combined with vitamin C and ferulic acid in a more stable topical formula (C E Ferulic®). Mice were exposed to UVB for 10 weeks in order to induce skin damage. Then, before the appearance of any cutaneous lesions, mice were treated for 15 weeks with a topical antioxidant, without any further UVB exposure. We found that topical C E Ferulic decreased tumor number and tumor burden and prevented the development of malignant skin tumors in female mice with chronically UVB-damaged skin. In contrast, female mice chronically exposed to UVB and treated topically with vitamin E alone showed a trend towards increased tumor growth rate and exhibited increased levels of overall DNA damage, cutaneous proliferation, and angiogenesis compared to vehicle-treated mice. Thus, we have demonstrated that topical 5% alpha tocopherol may actually promote carcinogenesis when applied on chronically UVB-damaged skin while treating with a more stable antioxidant compound may offer therapeutic benefits.

Protein antioxidants in thalassemia

It is common knowledge that thalassemic patients are under significant oxidative stress. Chronic hemolysis, frequent blood transfusion, and increased intestinal absorption of iron are the main factors that result in iron overload with its subsequent pathophysiologic complications. Iron overload frequently associates with the generation of redox-reactive labile iron, which in turn promotes the production of other reactive oxygen species (ROS). If not neutralized, uncontrolled production of ROS often leads to damage of various intra- and extracellular components such as DNA, proteins, lipids, and small antioxidant molecules among others. A number of endogenous and exogenous defense mechanisms can neutralize and counteract the damaging effects of labile iron and the reactive substances associated with it. Endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and ferroxidase, may directly or sequentially terminate the activities of ROS. Nonenzymatic endogenous defense mechanisms include metal binding proteins (ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, albumin, and others) and endogenously produced free radical scavengers (glutathione (GSH), ubiquinols, and uric acid). Exogenous agents that are known to function as antioxidants (vitamins C and E, selenium, and zinc) are mostly diet-derived. In this review, we explore recent findings related to various antioxidative mechanisms operative in thalassemic patients with special emphasis on protein antioxidants.

Function of plastochromanol and other biological prenyllipids in the inhibition of lipid peroxidation-A comparative study in model systems

Lipid peroxidation is an oxidation reaction leading to the generation of lipid hydroperoxides. Here we present comparative data on the inhibition of lipid peroxidation by a variety of biological prenyllipids in liposomes prepared from natural lipid membranes. Lipid peroxidation was initiated by hydrophilic and hydrophobic azo initiators, as well as by singlet oxygen generated via photosensitized reaction of hydrophobic zinc tetraphenylporphine. When lipid peroxidation was initiated in the water phase, tocopherols and plastochromanol-8 were more effective than prenylquinols, such as plastoquinol-9, ubiquinol-10 or α-tocopherolquinol. However, if the peroxidation was initiated within the hydrophobic interior of liposome membranes, long-chain prenyllipids, such as plastoquinol-9 and plastochromanol-8, were considerably more active than tocopherols in the inhibition of the reaction. In the latter system, tocopherols showed even prooxidant activity. The prooxidant activity of α-tocopherol was prevented by plastoquinol, suggesting the reduction of α-tocopheroxyl radical by the quinol. All the investigated prenyllipids were able to inhibit singlet oxygen-mediated lipid peroxidation but the most active were prenylquinols in this respect. Among all the prenyllipids investigated, plastochromanol-8 was the most versatile antioxidant in the inhibition of lipid peroxidation initiated by the three different methods.

Development of a phenol-enriched olive oil with both its own phenolic compounds and complementary phenols from thyme

Besides affecting the oil's sensorial characteristics, the presence of herbs and spices has an impact on the nutritional value of the flavored oils. The aim of the study was to develop a new product based on the phenol-enrichment of a virgin olive oil with both its own phenolic compounds (secoiridoid derivatives) plus additional complementary phenols from thyme (flavonoids). We studied the effect of the addition of phenolic extracts (olive cake and thyme) on phenolic composition, oxidative stability, antioxidant activity, and bitter sensory attribute of olive oils. Results showed that flavonoids from thyme appeared to have higher transference ratios (average 89.7%) from the phenolic extract to oil, whereas secoiridoids from olive presented lower transference ratios (average 35.3%). The bitter sensory attribute of the phenol-enriched oils diminished with an increase of the concentration of phenols from thyme, which might denote an improvement in the consumer acceptance.

Kinetic study of the α-tocopherol-regeneration reaction of ubiquinol-10 in methanol and acetonitrile solutions: notable effect of the alkali and alkaline earth metal salts on the reaction rates

A kinetic study of regeneration reaction of α-tocopherol (α-TocH) by ubiquinol-10 has been performed in the presence of four kinds of alkali and alkaline earth metal salts (LiClO(4), NaClO(4), NaI, and Mg(ClO(4))(2)) in methanol and acetonitrile solutions, using double-mixing stopped-flow spectrophotometry. The second-order rate constants (k(r)'s) for the reaction of α-tocopheroxyl (α-Toc•) radical with ubiquinol-10 increased and decreased notably with increasing concentrations of metal salts in methanol and acetonitrile, respectively. The k(r) values increased in the order of no metal salt < NaClO(4) ~ NaI < LiClO(4) < Mg(ClO(4))(2) at the same concentration of metal salts in methanol. On the other hand, in acetonitrile, the k(r) values decreased in the order of no metal salt > NaClO(4) ~ NaI > LiClO(4) > Mg(ClO(4))(2) at the same concentration of metal salts. The metal salts having a smaller ionic radius of cation and a larger charge of cation gave a larger k(r) value in methanol, and a smaller k(r) value in acetonitrile. The effect of anion was almost negligible in both the solvents. Notable effects of metal cations on the UV-vis absorption spectrum of α-Toc• radical were observed in aprotic acetonitrile solution, suggesting complex formation between α-Toc• and metal cations. On the other hand, effects of metal cations were negligible in protic methanol, suggesting that the complex formation between α-Toc• and metal cations is hindered by the hydrogen bond between α-Toc• and methanol molecules. The difference between the reaction mechanisms in methanol and acetonitrile solutions was discussed on the basis of the results obtained. High concentrations of alkali and alkaline earth metal salts coexist with α-TocH and ubiquinol-10 in plasma, blood, and many tissues, suggesting the contribution of the metal salts to the above regeneration reaction in biological systems.

Cardioprotective effect of ascorbic acid on doxorubicin-induced myocardial toxicity in rats

Objective:

To investigate the preventive and curative role of ascorbic acid on doxorubicin (dox)-induced myocardial toxicity in rats.

Materials and Methods:

Animals were divided into five groups of six animals each. Group I served as normal control and received saline 5 ml/kg/day intraperitoneal (i.p.) for a period of 15 days. Group II animals received ascorbic acid 20 mg/kg per oral (p.o.) for 15 days as a pretreatment control (PR). Group III animals received dox 2.5 mg/kg body weight (b.w.), i.p., in six equal injections for two weeks for a total cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg b.w. Group IV animals received ascorbic acid 20 mg/kg p.o. for 15 days as a pretreatment followed by dox 2.5 mg/kg b.w., i.p., in six equal injections for two weeks for a total cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg body weight. Group V animals received dox 2.5 mg/kg b.w., i.p., in six equal injections for two weeks for a total cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg b.w. followed by ascorbic acid 20 mg/kg p.o for 15 days as post-treatment control (CR). The biochemical parameters such as tissue glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and enzyme biomarkers such as creatine phosphokinase (CPK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were monitored.

Results:

Pretreatment with ascorbic acid (20 mg/kg p.o.) significantly protected the myocardium from the toxic effect of dox (PR), by increasing the levels of antioxidant enzymes such as GSH, SOD, and CAT toward normal and decreased the levels of MDA, CPK, LDH, AST, and ALT as compared with dox-treated rats. Post-treatment with ascorbic acid to dox-treated group (CR) significantly increased the levels of tissue GSH, SOD, CAT and significantly decreased the level of MDA as compared with dox-treated group. It also reduced the severity of cellular damage of the myocardium as confirmed by histopathology. The restoration of the endogenous antioxidant system clearly depicts that ascorbic acid produced its protective effect by scavenging the reactive oxygen species.

Conclusion:

The results obtained in this study provide evidence for the usefulness of the ascorbic acid as a cardioprotective agent.

Down syndrome and dementia: a randomized, controlled trial of antioxidant supplementation

Individuals with Down syndrome over age 40 years are at risk for developing dementia of the Alzheimer type and have evidence for chronic oxidative stress. There is a paucity of treatment trials for dementia in Down syndrome in comparison to Alzheimer disease in the general (non-Down syndrome) population. This 2-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessed whether daily oral antioxidant supplementation (900 IU of alpha-tocopherol, 200 mg of ascorbic acid and 600 mg of alpha-lipoic acid) was effective, safe and tolerable for 53 individuals with Down syndrome and dementia. The outcome measures comprised a battery of neuropsychological assessments administered at baseline and every 6 months. Compared to the placebo group, those individuals receiving the antioxidant supplement showed neither an improvement in cognitive functioning nor a stabilization of cognitive decline. Mean plasma levels of alpha-tocopherol increased ~2-fold in the treatment group and were consistently higher than the placebo group over the treatment period. Pill counts indicated good compliance with the regimen. No serious adverse events attributed to the treatment were noted. We conclude that antioxidant supplementation is safe, though ineffective as a treatment for dementia in individuals with Down syndrome and Alzheimer type dementia. Our findings are similar to studies of antioxidant supplementation in Alzheimer disease in the general population. The feasibility of carrying out a clinical trial for dementia in Down syndrome is demonstrated.

Tocotrienol rich fraction supplementation improved lipid profile and oxidative status in healthy older adults: A randomized controlled study

Background

Vitamin E supplements containing tocotrienols are now being recommended for optimum health but its effects are scarcely known. The objective was to determine the effects of Tocotrienol Rich Fraction (TRF) supplementation on lipid profile and oxidative status in healthy older individuals at a dose of 160 mg/day for 6 months.

Methods

Sixty-two subjects were recruited from two age groups: 35-49 years (n = 31) and above 50 years (n = 31), and randomly assigned to receive either TRF or placebo capsules for six months. Blood samples were obtained at 0, 3^rd and 6^th months.

Results

HDL-cholesterol in the TRF-supplemented group was elevated after 6 months (p < 0.01). Protein carbonyl contents were markedly decreased (p < 0.001), whereas AGE levels were lowered in the > 50 year-old group (p < 0.05). Plasma levels of total vitamin E particularly tocopherols were significantly increased in the TRF-supplemented group after 3 months (p < 0.01). Plasma total tocotrienols were only increased in the > 50 year-old group after receiving 6 months of TRF supplementation. Changes in enzyme activities were only observed in the > 50 year-old group. SOD activity was decreased after 3 (p < 0.05) and 6 (p < 0.05) months of TRF supplementation whereas CAT activity was decreased after 3 (p < 0.01) and 6 (p < 0.05) months in the placebo group. GPx activity was increased at 6 months for both treatment and placebo groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The observed improvement of plasma cholesterol, AGE and antioxidant vitamin levels as well as the reduced protein damage may indicate a restoration of redox balance after TRF supplementation, particularly in individuals over 50 years of age.

Pharmacological dose of α-tocopherol induces cardiotoxicity in Wistar rats determined by echocardiography and histology

The effect of pharmacological dose of α-tocopherol on heart health was determined in Wistar rats. Animals were randomly assigned to either C (control, n = 11) or E (α-tocopherol, n = 11) group. Animals received corn oil (C) or α-tocopherol dissolved in corn oil (250 mg α-tocopherol/[kg body wt/day]) (E) by gavage for a 7-week period. Rats underwent echocardiogram and were analyzed for cardiomyocyte histology and cardiac α-tocopherol absorption at the end of the study period. As compared to the C group, α-tocopherol-supplemented group showed significantly ( p < 0.05) lower body weight (E, 412.8 g vs C, 480.3 g) and total cardiac weight (E, 0.94 g vs C, 1.08 g); cardiomyocyte histological impairment; smaller left ventricle (LV) (LV end-diastolic diameter (E, 7.22 mm vs C, 7.37 mm), lower LV systolic [left ventricle fractional shortening (E, 47.6% vs C, 53.6%) and ejection fraction ratio (E, 85.4 vs C, 89.9)] and diastolic [early peak velocities of diastolic transmitral flow (E, 64.6 cm/sec vs C, 75.1 cm/sec)] function. The α-tocopherol uptake in target tissue was confirmed by determination of α-tocopherol concentration medians in cardiac tissue (E, 109.91 nmol/kg vs C, 52.09 nmol/kg). The current study indicates that pharmacological dose of α-tocopherol supplementation can induce cardiotoxicity in healthy rats.

Chemistry and biochemistry of lipid peroxidation products

Oxidative stress and resulting lipid peroxidation is involved in various and numerous pathological states including inflammation, atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. This review is focused on recent advances concerning the formation, metabolism and reactivity towards macromolecules of lipid peroxidation breakdown products, some of which being considered as 'second messengers' of oxidative stress. This review relates also new advances regarding apoptosis induction, survival/proliferation processes and autophagy regulated by 4-hydroxynonenal, a major product of omega-6 fatty acid peroxidation, in relationship with detoxication mechanisms. The use of these lipid peroxidation products as oxidative stress/lipid peroxidation biomarkers is also addressed.

Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health

In recent years, there has been a great deal of attention toward the field of free radical chemistry. Free radicals reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species are generated by our body by various endogenous systems, exposure to different physiochemical conditions or pathological states. A balance between free radicals and antioxidants is necessary for proper physiological function. If free radicals overwhelm the body's ability to regulate them, a condition known as oxidative stress ensues. Free radicals thus adversely alter lipids, proteins, and DNA and trigger a number of human diseases. Hence application of external source of antioxidants can assist in coping this oxidative stress. Synthetic antioxidants such as butylated hydroxytoluene and butylated hydroxyanisole have recently been reported to be dangerous for human health. Thus, the search for effective, nontoxic natural compounds with antioxidative activity has been intensified in recent years. The present review provides a brief overview on oxidative stress mediated cellular damages and role of dietary antioxidants as functional foods in the management of human diseases.

Kinetic study of low density lipoprotein oxidation by copper

Oxidation of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) is regarded as a key event in the development of atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to investigate effect of various copper concentrations on LDL oxidation kinetic profile as a mechanism in atherosclerosis process. LDL was isolated from plasma and its oxidation with copper was investigated by monitoring the formation of conjugated dienes. Based on time course of the formation of conjugated diene was observed at concentrations of 0.5 to 10 µM copper, represented the conventional kinetics of LDL oxidation with an inhibition period followed by a propagation phase. In contrast, at concentrations of 20 to 50 µM copper, LDL oxidation proceeded after a negligibly short lag-time followed by a distinct propagation phase. At lower copper concentrations of about 0.5 µM, LDL oxidation can be combined in 4 consecutive oxidation phase. The increasing copper concentration (to 10 µM) lowered the first propagation and shortened the seconded inhibition period until they melted into one apparent kinetic phase. But in copper concentrations of about 20 to 50 µM, increasing copper concentration increased the first propagation and the second inhibition but lowered the second propagation phase. The results of this investigation on the copper dependence of the oxidation kinetics suggest that LDL contains two different copper binding sites. Copper bound to the low affinity binding sites with molar ratio of 200 to 500 of copper / LDL. These ions bound to the high affinity binding sites with molar ratio of copper / LDL of 5 to 100.

Kinetic study of the aroxyl radical-scavenging reaction of alpha-tocopherol in methanol solution: notable effect of the alkali and alkaline earth metal salts on the reaction rates

A kinetic study of the aroxyl (ArO*) radical-scavenging reaction of alpha-tocopherol (alpha-TocH) has been performed in the presence of six kinds of alkali and alkaline earth metal salts (LiI, LiClO(4), NaI, NaClO(4), KI, and Mg(ClO(4))(2)) in methanol solution, using stopped-flow spectrophotometry. The decay rate of the ArO* for the reaction of alpha-TocH with ArO* increased linearly with increasing concentration of metal salts. The second-order rate constants (k(s)) for the reaction of alpha-TocH with ArO* increased in the order of no metal salt < KI approximately NaClO(4) approximately NaI <or= LiClO(4) < Mg(ClO(4))(2) < LiI at the same concentration of metal salts. For example, the k(s) values in methanol solution including 4.00 x 10(-1) M of LiI and Mg(ClO(4))(2) were 3.04 and 1.30 times larger than that in the absence of metal salts, respectively. The alkali and alkaline earth metal salts having smaller ionic radius of cation and anion and larger charge of cation gave larger rate constants (k(s)). Effects of metal cations on the UV-vis absorption spectra of the alpha-Toc* (and ArO*) radical were negligible in methanol solution, suggesting that the complex formation between the alpha-Toc* (and ArO*) radical molecule and metal cations is hindered by the hydrogen bond between radical and methanol molecules. The results indicate that the hydrogen transfer reaction of alpha-TocH proceeds via an electron transfer intermediate from alpha-TocH to ArO* radicals followed by proton transfer. Both the coordinations of metal cations to the one-electron reduced anions of ArO* (ArO: (-)) and of counteranions to the one-electron oxidized cations of alpha-TocH (alpha-TocH(+)*) may stabilize the intermediate, resulting in the acceleration of electron transfer. On the other hand, the effect of metal salts on the rate of bimolecular self-reaction (2k(d)) of the alpha-Toc* radical was not observed. The result suggests that the hydrogen transfer reaction between two alpha-Toc* radical molecules proceeds via a one-step hydrogen atom transfer mechanism rather than via an electron-transfer intermediate. High concentrations of alkali and alkaline earth metal salts coexist with alpha-TocH in plasma, blood, and many tissues, suggesting the contribution of the metal salts to the antioxidant actions of alpha-TocH.

Fibrinogen is a co-antioxidant that supplements the vitamin E analog trolox in a model system

OBJECTIVE

It appears that the atherosclerotic plaque is a prooxidant environment where some molecules that are normally antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, may act as prooxidants that contribute to atherosclerosis by oxidizing LDL. Some molecules can act as co-antioxidants to eliminate this prooxidant effect by recycling or other mechanisms of supplementation. Fibrinogen and other acute phase proteins found in the plaque are antioxidants. We hypothesized that fibrinogen can act as a co-antioxidant to supplement vitamin E thereby eliminating its oxidative effect under prooxidant conditions. We tested a model system for this hypothesis using the vitamin E analogue Trolox in a cell free system.

METHODS

LDL was oxidized using 5 umol/l copper. Antioxidant conditions were achieved by adding the antioxidants immediately with LDL, while prooxidant conditions were created by adding antioxidants after a 40 min delay. Oxidation was monitored as the lag phase at 234 nm.

RESULTS

Under antioxidant conditions, the protective effect of fibrinogen and Trolox combined together were about equal to the sum of the anitioxidant effects of each alone (additive), while under prooxidant conditions the combined protection was 54-200% greater (synergistic). These effects were different than those of vitamin C with Trolox in that under antioxidant conditions fibrinogen and Trolox were additive while vitamin C and Trolox showed strong synergistic effects, and in that unlike vitamin C and Trolox fibrinogen showed no prooxidant tendencies under prooxidant reaction conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The data indicated that fibrinogen did act as a co-antioxidant to supplement Trolox and eliminate its prooxidant effect, most probably, by directly quenching the phenoxyl radical, because unlike vitamin C, fibrinogen did not appear to recycle vitamin E. But fibrinogen may act as a universal antioxidant, since unlike Trolox and vitamin C, it showed little tendency toward becoming a prooxidant.

Hydrogen Abstraction Ability of Different Aromatic Nitroxides

Indolinonic aromatic nitroxides have been shown to efficiently inhibit free radical mediated oxidation reactions in biological systems. Since all antioxidants also possess pro-oxidant activity, possibly through a hydrogen abstraction process from suitable substrates, the relative hydrogen abstraction abilities of these compounds were evaluated. Different hydrogen donors were reacted with an indolinic and two indolinonic nitroxides and the rates of hydrogen abstraction were determined using UV-Vis spectroscopy. From the data obtained, a structure-activity relationship was found. In addition, the hydrogen abstraction ability of these compounds was found to be much greater than that of the aliphatic nitroxide TEMPO, despite existing reports indicating that these two classes of compounds show similar antioxidant activities in biological systems.

Ascorbic acid combined with ibuprofen in hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Free oxygen radicals and proinflammatory cytokines are important causes for brain injury in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Our objectives were to test the hypothesis that a combination of antioxidants (ascorbic acid) and anti-inflammatory agents (ibuprofen) can ameliorate the brain injury in HIE and improve neurodevelopmental outcomes when given to term infants immediately after birth.

STUDY DESIGN

In a prospective, randomized, double-blinded controlled trial, 60 asphyxiated term infants were assigned to one of two groups, intervention and control. The intervention group (n=30) received intravenous ascorbic acid and oral ibuprofen for 3 days; and the control group (n=30) received similar volumes of a placebo. We measured a panel of cytokines at enrollment and administered the treatment drugs within 2 h after birth. Neurological evaluations and developmental screenings were performed for all survivors at 6 months of age.

RESULT

The Intervention and Control groups did not differ in the severity of HIE at enrollment, the concentrations of IL-1 beta and IL-6, the incidence of mortality (37 vs 33%), the incidence of neurological abnormalities at hospital discharge (47 vs 55%) and the incidence of developmental delay at 6 months of age (32 vs 40%), respectively. None of the observed complications were related to intervention. Serum interleukin (IL)-1 beta and IL-6 concentrations correlated positively with the severity of HIE at birth (P<0.01), whereas only serum IL-6 correlated with neurodevelopmental outcome at 6 months (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Early administration of ascorbic acid and ibuprofen did not affect outcomes in infants with perinatal asphyxia. This study does not explain whether our intervention was not effective in blocking free radicals and inflammatory cytokines, if the dosing and route of administration were inadequate, or if other mediators existed that could have a more powerful role in brain injury during hypoxia-ischemia.

The response of gamma vitamin E to varying dosages of alpha vitamin E plus vitamin C

Vitamin E has been studied extensively in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Cross-sectional population studies as well as randomized controlled intervention trials have demonstrated conflicting results. A recent meta-analysis of these trials has emphasized the ineffectiveness of vitamin E in atherosclerosis prevention, with a possibility of harm at higher dosages. However, vitamin E has several isomers, with the alpha form being available via dietary supplements and the gamma form being available via dietary foodstuffs. The gamma form of vitamin E demonstrates several superior properties (such as trapping reactive nitrogen species and detoxifying nitrogen dioxide) compared with alpha vitamin E. All clinical trials have used the alpha isomer, with little concern that this isomer of vitamin E may actually suppress the gamma isomer of vitamin E. We undertook a dose-response study in volunteers with type 2 diabetes mellitus to include all the dosages of alpha vitamin E that have been used in cardiovascular prevention trials to determine the effect of alpha vitamin E on gamma vitamin E. We also assessed the effect of alpha vitamin E on several traditional markers of atherosclerotic risk. We added vitamin C to the vitamin E because several clinical trials included this vitamin to enhance the antioxidant effects of alpha vitamin E. Volunteers received, in randomized order for a 2-week period, one of the following vitamin dosage arms: (1) no vitamins, (2) low-dose supplemental vitamins E plus C, (3) medium-dose supplemental vitamins E plus C, and (4) high-dose supplemental vitamins E plus C. Blood levels of both alpha and gamma vitamin E were measured as well as surrogate markers of oxidative stress, hypercoagulation, and inflammation during a high-fat atherogenic meal (to increase the ambient oxidative stress level during the study). The results demonstrate that alpha vitamin E levels increased in proportion to the dose administered. However, at every dose of alpha vitamin E, gamma vitamin E concentration was significantly suppressed. No beneficial changes in surrogate markers of atherosclerosis were observed, consistent with the negative results of prospective clinical trials using alpha vitamin E. Our results suggest that all prospective cardiovascular clinical trials that used vitamin E supplementation actually suppressed the beneficial antioxidant gamma isomer of vitamin E. No beneficial effects on several potential cardiovascular risk factors were observed, even when the vitamin E was supplemented with vitamin C. If a standardized preparation of gamma vitamin E (without the alpha isomer) becomes available, the effects of gamma vitamin E on atherosclerotic risk will warrant additional studies.

Vitamins and cardiovascular disease

CVD is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in the Western world. In recent years its importance has expanded internationally and it is believed that by 2020 it will be the biggest cause of mortality in the world, emphasising the importance to prevent or minimise this increase. A beneficial role for vitamins in CVD has long been explored but the data are still inconsistent. While being supported by observational studies, randomised controlled trials have not yet supported a role for vitamins in primary or secondary prevention of CVD and have in some cases even indicated increased mortality in those with pre-existing late-stage atherosclerosis. The superiority of combination therapy over single supplementation has been suggested but this has not been confirmed in trials. Studies have indicated that beta-carotene mediates pro-oxidant effects and it has been suggested that its negative effects may diminish the beneficial effects mediated by the other vitamins in the supplementation cocktail. The trials that used a combination of vitamins that include beta-carotene have been disappointing. However, vitamin E and vitamin C have in combination shown long-term anti-atherogenic effects but their combined effect on clinical endpoints has been inconsistent. Studies also suggest that vitamins would be beneficial to individuals who are antioxidant-deficient or exposed to increased levels of oxidative stress, for example, smokers, diabetics and elderly patients, emphasising the importance of subgroup targeting. Through defining the right population group and the optimal vitamin combination we could potentially find a future role for vitamins in CVD.

Assessment of radical scavenging capacity and lipid peroxidation inhibiting capacity of antioxidant

The role of radical scavenging antioxidants against oxidative stress has received much attention, and the antioxidant capacity has been assessed by various methods. Among them, a method that measures the effect of antioxidant on decay of the probe is one of the most widely used methods. The present study was performed to compare the two methods to assess the antioxidant capacity, one to follow the decay of the probe and the other to measure lipid peroxidation products in human plasma. It was shown that the method following probe decay was suitable for assessment of radical scavenging capacity of antioxidant, but not for the capacity to inhibit lipid peroxidation in plasma. This is true whether a hydrophilic or lipophilic probe is used. Such different results arise from the fact that the efficacy of inhibition of lipid peroxidation by antioxidants depends on the fate of antioxidant-derived radical and interaction between antioxidants as well as the capacity of free radical scavenging. Thus, the capacity of antioxidants for inhibition of lipid peroxidation should be assessed from the effect on the extent of oxidation, not from the effect on probe decay.

Effect of one-year oral alpha-tocopherol administration on the antioxidant defense system in hemodialysis patients

Oxidative stress is increased in hemodialysis (HD) patients and contributes to the increased morbidity and mortality in this population. Vitamin E is an antioxidant agent. In the present study the effect of prolonged oral alpha-tocopherol administration on the antioxidant defense system was evaluated. The antioxidant factors plasma total antioxidant status (TAS), red blood cell superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity were evaluated with spectrometry in 27 HD patients. Measurements were performed before and after oral administration of alpha-tocopherol at a dose of 500 mg/d for a one-year period. Twenty HD patients received a placebo and 22 healthy volunteers served as controls. TAS was increased in HD patients. No difference was detected in SOD and GPX activity between HD patients and healthy volunteers. Tocopherol administration induced a significant decrease in TAS and SOD activity. Levels of GPX activity remained unaffected. All the evaluated factors remained stable in the HD patients receiving a placebo. Prolonged oral alpha-tocopherol administration in HD patients induces a decrease in some components of the antioxidant defense system, raising the possibility for a pro-oxidative role of vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant agent, but it is also known to have pro-oxidant action under special conditions that can be encountered in HD patients.

Protecting antioxidative effects of vitamins E and C in experimental physical stress

Like every redox-active compound vitamin E may exert pro-oxidative and antioxidative effects depending on the reaction partners present. In this work we evaluated the intensity of oxidative stress produced by a physical exercise through swimming as well as of protecting action of antioxidant vitamins E and C. Antioxidant systems include antioxidant enzymes: superoxide-dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathion peroxidase (GSH-Px), as well as of components with an antioxidant action of the reduced glutathion type (GSH) and vitamins E and C. We determine the activities of these enzymes in the erythrocytes and heart homogenate. Our results points out a protective effect against oxidative stress produced by swimming in animals treated with vitamins E and C, which are expressed through the diminution of the malondialdehyde (MDA) quantity both in erythrocytes and in the heart, and through the conservation of GSH content in both products. CAT and GSH-Px activities decrease while that of SOD increases on both tissues, but with different intensities in accordance with the variation of protection degree performed by the vitamin couple on these tissues. The obtained data underline the necessity of intensifying the means of endogenous antiradical defence with exogenous antioxidant vitamins C and E. This study highlights the need of a proper vitamin supplement in organism under stress.