Serum cardiac markers in patients with acute myocardial infarction: oxidative stress, C-reactive protein and N-terminal probrain natriuretic Peptide

18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid exerts cardioprotective effects against BPA-induced cardiotoxicity through antiapoptotic and antioxidant mechanisms

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic environmental pollutant widely used in industry, as well as is an endocrine disrupting chemicals and has a toxic effects on heart tissue. The aim of this study is to reveal the cardioprotective effects of 18β-glycyrretinic acid (GA) against BPA-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. In this study, 40 male rats were used and five different groups (each group includes eight rats) were formed. The rats were applied BPA (250 mg/kg b.w.) alone or with GA (50 and 100 mg/kg b.w.) for 14 days. Rats were killed on Day 15 and heart tissues were taken for analysis. GA treatment decreased serum lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase MB levels, reducing BPA-induced heart damage. GA treatment showed ameliorative effects against lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress caused by BPA by increasing the antioxidant enzyme activities (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) and GSH level of the heart tissue and decreasing the MDA level. In addition, GA showed antiapoptotic effect by increasing Bcl-2, procaspase-3, and -9 protein expression levels and decreasing Bax, cytochrome c, and P53 protein levels in heart tissue. As a result, it was found that GA has cardioprotective effects on heart tissue by exhibiting antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects against heart damage caused by BPA, an environmental pollutant. Thus, it was supported that GA could be a potential cardioprotective agent.

Telomere Length and Oxidative Stress in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation and Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

PURPOSE

The telomere length is shown to act as a biomarker, especially for biological aging and cardiovascular diseases, and it is also suggested that with this correlation, increased exposure to the oxidative stress accelerates the vascular aging process. Therefore, this study aims to understand the correlation between the plasma oxidative stress index (OSI) status and leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and cardiologic parameters between the ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) groups.

METHOD

One hundred one newly diagnosed patients with STEMI (n = 55) and NSTEMI (n = 46) were included in the study, along with 100 healthy controls who matched the patients in terms of age and gender. Plasma total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and LTL were measured.

RESULTS

When LTL, TAS, TOS, and OSI values were evaluated between the patient and control group, OSI (p = 0.000) and LTL (p = 0.05) values were statistically significant in the patient group compared to the control group. Evaluation was conducted to understand whether there is a difference between the STEMI and NSTEMI groups. The plasma OSI (p = 0.007) and LTL (p = 0.05) were found to be significantly lower in STEMI patients. However, LTL and OSI results were not statistically significant in NSTEMI patients.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study evaluating telomere length and oxidative stress in STEMI and NSTEMI patients in Turkey. Our results support the existence of short telomere length in STEMI patients. Future studies on telomere length and oxidative stress will support the importance of our findings.

Acute Myocardial Infarction Biosensor: A Review From Bottom Up

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a cardiovascular disease that is produced due to a deficiency of oxygen generating irreversible damage in the heart muscle. In diagnosis, electrocardiogram (ECG) investigation has been the main method but is insufficient, so approaches like the measurement of biomarkers levels in plasma or saliva have become one of the most commonly applied strategies for prognosis of AMI, as some of them are specifically related to a heart attack. Many tests are carrying on to determine biological markers changes, but usually, they present disadvantages related to time consumption and laborious work. To overcome the issues, researchers around the world have been developing different ways to enhance detection through the use of biosensors. These diagnostic devices have a biological sensing element associated to a physicochemical transducer that can be made from different materials and configurations giving place to different kinds of detection: Electrical/Electrochemical, Optical and Mechanical. In this review, the authors presents relevant investigations related to the most important biomarkers and biosensors used for their detection having in mind the nanotechnology participation in the process through the application of nanostructures as a good choice for device configuration.

Nimbolide prevents myocardial damage by regulating cardiac biomarkers, antioxidant level, and apoptosis signaling against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats

The current work planned to assess the protecting properties of nimbolide against doxorubicin (DOX)-treated myocardial damage. Myocardial damage was produced with 2.5 mg/kg of DOX given on alternative days (14 days). Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels of a lipid peroxidative marker were elevated, whereas reduced body weight, heart weight, blood pressure indices and reduced levels of antioxidants like glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and glutathione reductase were observed in the heart tissue of DOX-treated animals. DOX-treated animals showed augmented levels of cardiac markers likes monocyte chemotactic protein-1, interferon-gamma, aspartate transferase, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase-muscle/brain, heart-type fatty acid-binding protein, glycogen phosphorylase isoenzyme BB, transforming growth factor-β, brain natriuretic peptide, myoglobin, and cTnI in serum. Histopathological assessment confirmed the DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Furthermore, DOX-induced rats showed augmented inflammatory mediators (nuclear factor-κB [NF-kB], tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α], and interleukin-1β [IL-1β]) and increased PI3K/Akt signaling proteins (PI3K, p-Bad/Bad, caspase-3, and p-Akt), whereas decreased oxidative markers (HO-1 and NQO-1) and p-PTEN were observed. Nimbolide-supplemented rats showed reduced activity/levels of cardiac markers and TBARS levels in serum and heart tissue. Levels of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants were augmented in the heart tissue of nimbolide-supplemented rats. Nimbolide influence decreased apoptosis, inflammation, and enhanced antioxidant markers through the modulation of p-Bad/Bad, caspase-3, PI3K, p-Akt, TNF-α, NF-kB, IL-1β, HO-1, NQO-1, and p-PTEN markers. The histopathological explanations were observed to be in line with biochemical analysis. Therefore, the finding of current work was that nimbolide has a defensive effect on the myocardium against DOX-induced cardiac tissue damage.

Vitamin C for Cardiac Protection during Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the preferred treatment for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) secondary to atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. This nonsurgical procedure is also used for selective patients with stable angina. Although the procedure is essential for restoring blood flow, reperfusion can increase oxidative stress as a side effect. We address whether intravenous infusion of vitamin C (VC) prior to PCI provides a benefit for cardioprotection. A total of eight randomized controlled trials (RCT) reported in the literature were selected from 371 publications through systematic literature searches in six electronic databases. The data of VC effect on cardiac injury biomarkers and cardiac function were extracted from these trials adding up to a total of 1185 patients. VC administration reduced cardiac injury as measured by troponin and CK-MB elevations, along with increased antioxidant reservoir, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased inflammatory markers. Improvement of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and telediastolic left ventricular volume (TLVV) showed a trend but inconclusive association with VC. Intravenous infusion of VC before PCI may serve as an effective method for cardioprotection against reperfusion injury.

Comparative assessment of individual RONS in serum of smokers compared with non-smokers and their correlation with the lipid profile and antioxidant status

Objective

Cigarette smoking generates free radicals, such as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) that contribute to many diseases. The aim of this study was to compare the levels of individual RONS in serum from smokers and non-smokers, and to examine their impact on lipid profiles and the endogenous antioxidant status, which is represented by vitamins C and E.

Methods

Ninety-four healthy Egyptian volunteers (48 smokers and 46 non-smokers) were enrolled. Blood samples were collected and analysed for common haematological tests, lipid profiles, and serum antioxidants. Six reactive oxygen species and three reactive nitrogen species were measured.

Results

A significant increase in radical levels was observed, as well as significant increases in haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit, platelet count, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in smokers compared with non-smokers. In contrast, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was significantly reduced in smokers compared with non-smokers. A moderate negative correlation was found between serum levels of vitamins C and E and O₂^–•, HO^•, H₂O₂, NO^•, and ONO^•, reflecting a negative impact of elevated RONS levels on the endogenous antioxidant status.

Conclusion

These results may increase our understanding of the pathological role of smoking in several diseases.

Black Garlic Improves Heart Function in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease by Improving Circulating Antioxidant Levels

Background: Black garlic (BG) has many health-promoting properties.

Objectives: We aimed to explore the clinical effects of BG on chronic heart failure (CHF) in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

Design: The main components of BG were measured by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and its antioxidant properties were determined by the clearance rate of free radicals. One hundred twenty CHF patients caused by CHD were randomly and evenly assigned into BG group and placebo group (CG). The duration of treatment was 6 months. Cardiac function was measured according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification system. The following parameters were measured, including walking distance, BNP precursor N-terminal (Nt-proBNP), left-ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) value, and the scores of quality of life (QOL). The circulating antioxidant levels were compared between two groups.

Results: There are 27 main compounds in BG with strong antioxidant properties. BG treatment improved cardiac function when compared with controls (P < 0.05). The QOL scores and LVEF values were higher in the BG group than in the CG group while the concentration of Nt-proBNP was lower in the BG group than in the CG group (P < 0.05). Circulating antioxidant levels were higher in the BG group than in the CG group. Antioxidant levels had positive relation with QOL and LVEF values, and negative relation with Nt-proBNP values.

Conclusion: BG improves the QOL, Nt-proBNP, and LVEF in CHF patient with CHD by increasing antioxidant levels.

Hepatoprotective effects of betaine on liver damages followed by myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction is commonly considered as a leading cause of cardiovascular disease taking the lives of seven million people annually. Liver dysfunction is associated with cardiac diseases. The profile of abnormal liver functions in heart failure is not clearly defined. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of betaine on liver injury after myocardial infarction induced by isoprenaline in rats. Forty-eight male rats were divided into four groups: the control group received normal diet and the experimental groups received 50, 150, and 250 mg kg^-1 body weight of betaine daily through gastric gavages for 60 days. All of experimental and control groups experienced myocardial infarction, induced by subcutaneous injection of 100 mg kg^-1 isoprenaline in two consecutive doses )8:00 AM to 8:00 PM). Liver enzymes including aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were significantly reduced in the groups treated with betaine, compared with the control group. The total antioxidant capacity in the experimental groups, treated with betaine, showed a significant increase, compared with the control group. In the control group, severe lesions were created in the liver tissue, while degenerative changes of liver tissue significantly reduced in groups treated with different doses of betaine, showing the repair of liver tissue. Betaine decreased apoptosis in the experimental groups in comparison with the control group. Betaine showed a protective effect against biochemical and histological changes in liver tissue caused by the induction of myocardial infarction via isoprenaline injection.

Effects of cyanidin 3-0-glucoside on cardiac structure and function in an animal model of myocardial infarction

Cyanidin 3-0-glucoside (CG) is a polyphenol with potential health benefits. In this study, we investigated, for the first time, the cardioprotective effects of CG in an animal model of myocardial infarction (MI), a major cause of death worldwide. Sham and MI rats were administered CG (10 mg kg^-1 day^-1) daily for one week prior to surgery, and 8 weeks post-surgery. Echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac structure and function at 4 and 8 weeks. At 4 weeks, MI rats had significantly lower body mass when compared to control rats, and CG administration significantly prevented this decrease. Four-week MI rats also showed significantly increased left ventricle dilation, end systolic and end diastolic volumes in comparison to controls, and CG significantly prevented these adverse changes. Ejection fraction was significantly lower in 4-week MI rats in comparison to controls, and CG had no effect on this parameter. At 8 weeks, body mass was significantly lower in MI rats when compared to control rats, and CG significantly prevented this decrease. At 8 weeks, MI rats showed a significant increase in left ventricle dilation and isovolumic relaxation time, while ejection fraction was significantly lower when compared to controls; these parameters were not altered by CG treatment. Eight-week MI rats had significantly higher level of oxidative stress in heart tissue in comparison to controls, and CG administration did not prevent this increase. In conclusion, administration of CG was able to significantly preserve body mass in both 4 and 8 weeks MI rats, as well as significantly prevent cardiac dilation in 4 weeks MI rats. However, CG was unable to sustain this cardioprotection, as cardiac structure and function were not significantly improved in 8 weeks MI rats.

Redox system and phospholipid metabolism in the kidney of hypertensive rats after FAAH inhibitor URB597 administration

Primary and secondary hypertension is associated with kidney redox imbalance resulting in enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enzymes dependent phospholipid metabolism. The fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor, URB597, modulates the levels of endocannabinoids, particularly of anandamide, which is responsible for controlling blood pressure and regulating redox balance. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of chronic URB597 administration to spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and rats with secondary hypertension (DOCA-salt rats) on the kidney metabolism associated with the redox and endocannabinoid systems. It was shown fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor decreased the activity of ROS-generated enzymes what resulted in a reduction of ROS level. Moreover varied changes in antioxidant parameters were observed with tendency to improve antioxidant defense in SHR kidney. Moreover, URB597 administration to hypertensive rats decreased pro-inflammatory response, particularly in the kidneys of DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. URB597 had tendency to enhance ROS-dependent phospholipid oxidation, estimated by changes in neuroprostanes in the kidney of SHR and reactive aldehydes (4-hydroxynonenal and malondialdehyde) in DOCA-salt rats, in particular. The administration of FAAH inhibitor resulted in increased level of endocannabinoids in kidney of both groups of hypertensive rats led to enhanced expression of the cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 in SHR as well as vanilloid receptor 1 receptors in DOCA-salt rats. URB597 given to normotensive rats also affected kidney oxidative metabolism, resulting in enhanced level of neuroprostanes in Wistar Kyoto rats and reactive aldehydes in Wistar rats. Moreover, the level of endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors were significantly higher in both control groups of rats after URB597 administration.

In conclusion, because URB597 disturbed the kidney redox system and phospholipid ROS-dependent and enzymatic-dependent metabolism, the administration of this inhibitor may enhance kidney disorders depending on model of hypertension, but may also cause kidney disturbances in control rats. Therefore, further studies are warranted.

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URB597 has tendency to decrease kidney oxidative conditions.

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URB597 differentiates Nrf2 pathway response in kidney of SHR and DOCA-salt rats.

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URB597 enhances level of phospholipid peroxidation products and endocannabinoids.

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URB597 reduces pro-inflammatory response particularly in kidney of DOCA-salt rats.

Significance of Serum Total Oxidant/Antioxidant Status in Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Oxidative stress is involved in a variety of diseases. Prospective studies investigating the relationship between oxidative stress biomarkers and the status and development of colorectal cancer (CRC) are scarce; previous studies have failed to establish a relationship between the serum total oxidant/antioxidant status and CRC. Therefore, we compared the total serum oxidant/antioxidant levels of CRC patients and healthy subjects, and analyzed their clinical significance in the CRC. Fasting blood samples from 132 CRC patients and 64 healthy subjects were collected. Oxidative stress parameters, including total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS), were measured, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. The TOS and OSI levels increased significantly (P<0.001) and the TAS level significantly decreased (P<0.001) in the CRC group compared to those in the healthy control group. Oxidative stress parameters differed significantly depending on the patient’s smoking and drinking status (P<0.05). The preoperative and postoperative levels of TOS, TAS, and OSI did not differ significantly between primary sites (colon/rectum) and clinical stages (P>0.05).However, the levels of TOS, TAS, and OSI were significantly different between patients with no metastasis and those with metastases to two organs (P<0.05) Finally, the parameters are affected by smoking and drinking, and subsequent research should be conducted excluding the relevant influencing factors.

Cigarette Smoking and Oxidative Stress in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

AIM:

To determine whether cigarette smoking, as a risk factor for CAD, affects (anti)oxidant status.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

The study included patients with CAD, divided according to their smoking status and the number of cigarettes smoked during a day. Biological markers of oxidative stress (concentration of oxidants and activity of antioxidant enzymes) were measured in all subjects.

RESULTS:

The study included 300 patients with CAD, (average age of 63 ± 11 years), predominantly males. Of the total, 34.0% were active smokers, 23.0% were former smokers, and 43.0% were non-smokers. Most of the active smokers smoked 1-20 cigarettes/day. In terms of concentration of oxidants (MDA and HP) there was not a significant difference between smokers versus non-smokers. As for the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GPX), a statistically significant difference was found in the activity of GPX among the active smokers with CAD and the non-smokers with CAD (p = 0.039).

CONCLUSION:

Smoking as a risk factor for CAD is closely associated with increased oxidative stress, and the number of cigarettes smoked plays an important role in increasing the level of oxidative damage and reducing antioxidant defence.

Study of oxidative and inflammatory parameters in LDLr-KO mice treated with a hypercholesterolemic diet: Comparison between the use of Campomanesia xanthocarpa and acetylsalicylic acid

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease that affects the arterial wall leading to myocardial, cerebral, and peripheral ischemic syndromes. The use of low doses of aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation and inflammation and prevents cardiovascular mortality. However, ASA may produce hemorrhagic events. Thus, several studies have sought new natural compounds to suppress platelet aggregation without causing serious adverse effects.

PURPOSE

In this sense, this study aims to compare the effects of Campomanesia xanthocarpa plant extract with those of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on inflammatory parameters observed in homozygous mice knockout for the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr-KO) treated with a hypercholesterolemic diet.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this study, 28 male LDLr-KO mice were divided into three groups and fed a hypercholesterolemic diet for 4 weeks. Thereafter, the animals that received the hypercholesterolemic diet were treated for 5 days with (1) distilled water, (2) C. xanthocarpa extract, or (3) acetylsalicylic acid. The levels of inflammatory markers were assessed in the blood samples. The gastric tolerability of the animals after oral administration of the treatments was assessed through quantification of the lesions in the gastric mucosa.

RESULTS

The levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and INF-γ were reduced to 19.2 ± 3%, 20.4 + 1.3%, 24.7 ± 1.2%, and 20.8 ± 1.7%, respectively, in the group treated with C. xanthocarpa, when compared to control group. Furthermore, treatment with plant extract significantly increased the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 by 27.3 ± 5.9%, but ASA showed no significant effect on the same cytokines when compared to the control group, with the exception of IL-10, which presented an increase of 8.6 ± 3.5%. Treatments with C. xanthocarpa and ASA also caused significant reductions of 26.4 ± 3% and 38.4± 6% in the serum levels of oxLDL, respectively. However, only treatment with C. xanthocarpa reduced the levels of anti-oxLDL antibodies when compared with the control (25.8 ± 6%). In addition, the analyzed extract did not induce ulcerogenic activity, while ASA induced the formation of lesions.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, treatment with C. xanthocarpa causes anti-inflammatory activity in hypercholesterolemic animals, with results superior to those obtained with the use of ASA.

Crosstalk between liver antioxidant and the endocannabinoid systems after chronic administration of the FAAH inhibitor, URB597, to hypertensive rats

Hypertension is accompanied by perturbations to the endocannabinoid and antioxidant systems. Thus, potential pharmacological treatments for hypertension should be examined as modulators of these two metabolic systems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chronic administration of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor [3-(3-carbamoylphenyl)phenyl]N-cyclohexylcarbamate (URB597) on the endocannabinoid system and on the redox balance in the livers of DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Hypertension caused an increase in the levels of endocannabinoids [anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol (2-AG) and N-arachidonoyl-dopamine (NADA)] and CB1 receptor and the activities of FAAH and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). These effects were accompanied by an increase in the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), a decrease in antioxidant activity/level, enhanced expression of transcription factor Nrf2 and changes to Nrf2 activators and inhibitors. Moreover, significant increases in lipid, DNA and protein oxidative modifications, which led to enhanced levels of proapoptotic caspases, were also observed. URB597 administration to the hypertensive rats resulted in additional increases in the levels of AEA, NADA and the CB1 receptor, as well as decreases in vitamin E and C levels, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities and Nrf2 expression. Thus, after URB597 administration, oxidative modifications of cellular components were increased, while the inflammatory response was reduced. This study revealed that chronic treatment of hypertensive rats with URB597 disrupts the endocannabinoid system, which causes an imbalance in redox status. This imbalance increases the levels of electrophilic lipid peroxidation products, which later participate in metabolic disturbances in liver homeostasis.

MnSOD and GPx1 polymorphism relationship with coronary heart disease risk and severity

BACKGROUND

Disturbance of the equilibrium between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and anti-oxidants (AOX) has been implicated in various diseases, including atherosclerosis, the most common pathologic process underlying coronary heart disease (CHD). Thus, the defense systems against ROS are critical protecting blood vessel walls against oxidative damage. In this study, we investigate whether Ala16Val MnSOD and Pro198Leu GPx polymorphisms are associated with CHD susceptibility and/or severity.

METHODS

Both polymorphisms were genotyped in a sample of 203 controls and 164 patients. CHD risk and severity, antioxidant status (enzymatic and/or non enzymatic) and biochemical parameters were assessed and analysed by genotype.

RESULTS

A significant association of MnSOD variant to CHD risk was revealed in males. Males harboring the Val/Val genotype were approximately at twofold increased risk of CHD compared to controls (Ala carriers vs Val/Val, adjusted OR 1.89; 95 % CI 1.18‒3.42, p = 0.03). Significant decreases in SOD activity and total antioxidant status (TAS) were observed in Val carriers and by CHD status. Whereas, no association of GPx variant genotype (Leu/Leu) and activity to cardiopathy events was discerned. CHD severity, as demonstrated by the number of vessel stenosis, was associated with significantly higher frequency of Val allele and LDL levels in CHD subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed a lack of association of Pro198Leu GPx polymorphism to CHD risk and severity. However, they suggest that Ala16Val MnSOD polymorphism and decreased antioxidant defences are likely contributed to CHD risk in Tunisian men. Furthermore, the Val encoding MnSOD allele and decreased SOD activity were significantly correlated with CHD stenosis progression.

Comparative analysis of biochemical parameters in diabetic and non-diabetic acute myocardial infarction patients

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by enhanced production of free radicals hence oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of cardiac and antioxidant enzymes in diabetic and non-diabetic acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted on 450 subjects (70-85 years). Subjects were divided into three groups (Normal, N; Non-diabetic AMI, N-AMI; and Diabetic AMI, D-AMI). Each individual was subjected to a detailed history, clinical examination, and cardiovascular parameters analysis (fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, systolic and diasystolic blood pressure, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), TC/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios). Cardiac markers (Troponin-I, creatine phosphokinase (CPK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)) and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT)) were also assessed. All these parameters were compared between diabetic and non-diabetic AMI patients.

RESULTS

D-AMI individuals had high level of TC, TG, LDL, and low level of HDL in comparison to N-AMI individuals. Study suggests that cardiac markers such as Troponin I, CPK, CK-MB, AST, LDH, and CRP levels were significantly increased in patients suffering from myocardial infarction with diabetes mellitus (DM) compared to patients of myocardial infarction without DM. The activity levels of antioxidant SOD and GSH were lower in D-AMI patients than in N-AMI. However, levels of MDA and CAT were higher in D-AMI than in N-AMI controls.

CONCLUSION

Study suggests elevated cardiac markers and reduced antioxidants in D-AMI patients compared to N-AMI patients.

Resveratrol is equipotent to perindopril in attenuating post-infarct cardiac remodeling and contractile dysfunction in rats

BACKGROUND

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors improve prognosis in patients with post-myocardial infarction (MI) related cardiac dysfunction. Resveratrol is a polyphenol that has been reported to be beneficial in hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and cardiotoxicity in preclinical studies. Accordingly, we investigated the comparative and combinatorial efficacy of resveratrol and perindopril (ACE inhibitor) treatment on MI-related cardiac remodeling and contractile dysfunction.

METHODS

Left anterior descending artery-ligated and sham-operated male Sprague-Dawley rats were gavaged with vehicle, resveratrol, perindopril, and combination of resveratrol+perindopril (2.5 mg/kg bodyweight/day) for 8 weeks (starting immediately after acute MI). Echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac structure and function at baseline and 8 weeks.

RESULTS

At 8 weeks, vehicle-MI rats had a significantly lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and increased LV dilatation compared to vehicle-sham rats. MI rats treated with resveratrol, perindopril and a combination of both had significantly improved LVEF and reduced LV dilatation. Vehicle-treated MI rats also had increased level of lipid peroxidation product- malondialdehyde (MDA), proinflammatory protein- tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and cardiac fibrosis marker- collagen and decreased enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase compared to vehicle-sham rats. Resveratrol, perindopril and combination of both significantly prevented the /ed to determine systolic functional parameter increase in MDA, TNF-α and collagen and improved the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase in MI rats compared to vehicle-MI rats.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with resveratrol or perindopril was equivalent in significantly improving remodeling and attenuation of contractile dysfunction in MI rats. Combination treatment also attenuated the cardiac abnormalities. The improvement in cardiac abnormalities may partly be through reducing oxidative stress by preventing the decrease in the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase, and decreasing cardiac inflammation and fibrosis.

A novel oxidative stress marker in acute myocardial infarction; thiol/disulphide homeostasis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate a novel oxidative stress marker (thiol/disulphide homeostasis) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and compare the results with healthy controls for the first time in literature.

METHODS

A total of 450 participants including 300 patients with AMI and 150 healthy individuals were included in the study. Left ventricular ejection fraction, body mass index, peak troponin I levels, triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), native thiol, total thiol, and disulphide as well as disulphide/native thiol and disulphide/total thiol ratios were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between AMI patients and the controls for left ventricular ejection fraction and troponin, HDL, native thiol, total thiol, and disulphide levels as well as disulphide/native thiol and disulphide/total thiol ratios (P < .05). Stepwise logistic regression model indicated that HDL (odds ratio [OR] = 0.923, P < .001) and disulphide levels (OR = 0.548, P < .001) and disulphide/total thiol ratio (OR = 0.356, P < .001) were significantly and independently related to AMI. The cutoff value of disulphide/total thiol ratio percentage on admission to predict AMI in all population was 4.3, with a sensitivity of 70% and a specificity of 69%.

CONCLUSION

Thiol/disulphide homeostasis may be used as a novel oxidative stress marker in patients with AMI because it is readily available, easily calculated, and relatively cheap. Further studies are needed to confirm the pathophysiologic role of thiol/disulphide homeostasis in AMI.

Effects of Campomanesia xanthocarpa on inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction and lipid biomarkers in hypercholesterolemic individuals

In Brazil, the edible plant Campomanesia xanthocarpa Berg. (Myrtaceae), popularly known as "guavirova," has been studied in hypercholesterolemic individuals. The present work investigated the effects of C. xanthocarpa on inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction and lipid biomarkers in hypercholesterolemic individuals. A total of 156 individuals were selected in a double-blind fashion and randomly divided into two groups in accordance with the intervals used in the criteria for hypercholesterolemia: individuals with total cholesterol (TC) levels between 200 and 240 mg/dL (undesirable level individuals - UL) and individuals with TC levels >240 mg/dL (hypercholesterolemic individuals - HL). Both groups had a control group (CG), which received placebo treatment, an encapsulated excipient group (lactose) and an experimental group that received 500 mg (EG 500), 750 mg (EG 750) or 1000 mg (EG 1000) of encapsulated C. xanthocarpa. The inflammatory processes (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein - hs-CRP), oxidative stress (advanced oxidation protein products-AOPPs; ischemia-modified albumin-IMA), endothelial dysfunction (nitric oxide - NOx) and biochemical (TC, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein - HDL, low-density lipoproteins - LDL, and very low-density lipoprotein - VLDL) parameters were measured before and 90 days after the initiation of treatment. A significant decrease in TC and LDL levels was observed in HL individuals from the EG 500 group (reduction of 29 ± 3% and 41 ± 5% to levels before treatment) compared to the CG group individuals. A significant reduction in oxidative stress and inflammatory process components (reduction of 52 ± 11% in AOPPs, 32 ± 10% in IMA and 57 ± 7% in hs-CRP) and a significant increase in NOx (increase of 84 ± 27%) was observed in HL individuals in the EG 1000 group when compared to the CG group individuals. Treatment with encapsulated C. xanthocarpa reduced blood TC and LDL levels in hypercholesterolemic individuals. In addition to its effect on cholesterol levels, this plant reduced oxidative stress in hypercholesterolemic individuals and improved the levels of NOx.

Correlation of Waist-to-hip Ratio (WHR) and Oxidative Stress in Patients of Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI)

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation is thought to play a crucial role in the generation of atherosclerotic lesions of Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI).

METHODS

The case-control study contained 120 subjects divided in two groups, 60 patients with AMI and equal number of age- and sex-matched healthy subjects as controls. Ratio of Waist Circumference (WC) to Hip Circumference (HC) (waist-to-hip ratio) of all the subjects was recorded. Antioxidant status of the individuals was determined by measuring the serum levels of Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD). Estimation of Malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of lipid peroxidation was used as a surrogate marker of free radical activity.

RESULTS

WHR was found to be significantly higher in patients of AMI as compared to controls. MDA levels were significantly high and antioxidants molecules GPx and SOD were significantly decreased in AMI patients as compared with control (p<0.001). WHR correlated positively to serum level of MDA and inversely to the serum level of antioxidant enzymes.

CONCLUSION

High Waist-to-hip ratio is associated with high concentrations of malondialdehyde level and low concentration of antioxidant's enzyme. This results in increased oxidative stress, a major causative factor of AMI.

Oxidative stress-related biomarkers in essential hypertension and ischemia-reperfusion myocardial damage

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with hypertension being a major risk factor. Numerous studies support the contribution of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in the pathogenesis of hypertension, as well as other pathologies associated with ischemia/reperfusion. However, the validation of oxidative stress-related biomarkers in these settings is still lacking and novel association of these biomarkers and other biomarkers such as endothelial progenitor cells, endothelial microparticles, and ischemia modified albumin, is just emerging. Oxidative stress has been suggested as a pathogenic factor and therapeutic target in early stages of essential hypertension. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure correlated positively with plasma F2-isoprostane levels and negatively with total antioxidant capacity of plasma in hypertensive and normotensive patients. Cardiac surgery with extracorporeal circulation causes an ischemia/reperfusion event associated with increased lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation, two biomarkers associated with oxidative damage of cardiac tissue. An enhancement of the antioxidant defense system should contribute to ameliorating functional and structural abnormalities derived from this metabolic impairment. However, data have to be validated with the analysis of the appropriate oxidative stress and/or nitrosative stress biomarkers.

DNA and chromosomal damage in coronary artery disease patients

DNA and chromosomal damage in peripheral blood leukocytes of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) were investigated by using the single cell gel electrophoresis assay /comet and cytokinesis- block micronucleus (CBMN) assays, respectively. The case-control study comprised patients with CAD (n = 46; average age 53.0 ± 1.27 y) undergoing treatment at local hospitals, and healthy age-and sex-matched controls (n = 19; average age 54.21 ± 0.91 y) from the general population. The results of the comet assay revealed that the mean values of DNA damage were significantly (p < 0.001) higher in CAD patients than in controls (Tail DNA% 11.55 ± 0.38 vs. 5.31 ± 0.44; Tail moment 6.17 ± 0.31 vs. 2.93 ± 0.21 AU; Olive tail moment 3.52 ± 0.23 vs. 1.25 ± 0.11 AU). The mean values of chromosomal damage were also significantly higher (p < 0.001) in CAD patients than in controls (Binucleated cells with MN- 28.15 ± 1.18 vs. 18.16 ± 2.59; micronuclei 29.52 ± 1.21 vs. 18.68 ± 2.64, respectively) while nuclear division index (1.48 ± 0.01 vs. 1.63 ± 0.01) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in controls. The results of the present study indicate that coronary artery disease patients had increased levels of both, unrepaired (DNA) and repaired (chromosomal) genetic damage which may be a pathological consequence of the disease and/or the drug-treatment. This accumulation of DNA/chromosomal damage is of concern as it can lead to the development of cancer with increased chances of morbidity and mortality in the CAD patients.

Elevated levels of leukotriene B4 and thromboxane B2 distinguish chest pain of cardiac and non cardiac origin

OBJECTIVE

Myocardial infarction (MI) is often preceded by severe chest pain. The use of inflammatory markers to distinguish between chest pain of cardiac and non cardiac origin are not well reported. The aim of the study was to distinguish the chest pain of non cardiac and cardiac origin by using reliable inflammatory markers.

METHODS

The present study enrolled 80 subjects including chest pain which lead to myocardial infarction (n=40), non-cardiac chest pain (CP) patients (n=20) and healthy volunteers (N) (n=20). Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and thromboxane B2 (TXB2) levels were analyzed along with hs-CRP.

RESULTS

Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed LTB4 and TXB2 to be a good discriminator between patients with chest pain of cardiac and non cardiac in origin. The area under the curve was found to be 0.988 and 0.925 for LTB4 and TXB2, respectively when compared with hs-CRP. The sensitivity and specificity of LTB4 and TXB2 were found to be 90, 85% and 95, 90%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The measurement of LTB4 and TXB2 levels may therefore be useful to distinguish the chest pain leading to MI from that of non cardiac in origin and for the management of the disease.

Cardioprotective potential of N,α-L-rhamnopyranosyl vincosamide, an indole alkaloid, isolated from the leaves of Moringa oleifera in isoproterenol induced cardiotoxic rats: in vivo and in vitro studies

Hitherto unknown protective effect of N,α-L-rhamnopyranosyl vincosamide (VR), isolated from Moringa oleifera leaves in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiac toxicity was evaluated in rats. Oral administration of VR at 40 mg/kg for 7 days markedly reduced the ISO-induced increase in the levels of serum cardiac markers such as troponin-T, creatine kinase-MB, lactate dehydrogenase and glutamate pyruvate transaminase as well as cardiac lipid peroxidation with a parallel increase in the cellular antioxidants suggesting its cardio-protective and free radical scavenging potential, which was latter confirmed by in vitro study. Rats treated with test compound also improved the ISO-induced abnormal changes in ECG as well as in cardiac histology. A reduction in myocardial necrosis was further evidenced by the tri-phenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) stain in isolated test drug pretreated rats. These findings suggest the cardio-protective potential of the isolated alkaloid and possibly the beneficial action is mediated through its free radical scavenging property.

Ameliorative effect of α-tocopherol on monosodium glutamate-induced cardiac histological alterations and oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Chronic oral intake of high doses of monosodium glutamate (MSG) causes oxidative stress. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of cardiac dysfunction and injury. Supplementation with α-tocopherol protects the body against oxidative stress and its related complications. This study was proposed to examine the protective effect of α-tocopherol against MSG-induced biochemical and histological alterations in blood and cardiac tissue of rats for a period of 180 days.

RESULTS

Chronic oral administration of MSG (4 g kg(-1)) caused oxidative stress that was manifested by significant increase (P < 0.05) in malondialdehyde, conjugated dienes and by the decrease in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase in cardiac tissue. The significantly increased (P < 0.05) activities of aspartate transaminase, creatine phosphokinase and lactate dehydrogenase in serum suggested a cardiac functional disorder. Moreover, heart muscle fibers showed cloudy swelling, fiber separation and vascular congestion. Administration of α-tocopherol (200 mg kg(-1)) significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated the MSG-induced biochemical alterations in serum and cardiac tissue. α-Tocopherol also prevented the pathological changes in cardiac tissue when compared with the MSG-treated group.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that α-tocopherol may have a protective effect against MSG-induced cardiotoxicity, possibly through its antioxidant activity.

Inverse Association between Cardiac Troponin-I and Soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products in Patients with Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Interaction of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) with the receptor for advanced AGEs (RAGE) results in activation of nuclear factor kappa-B, release of cytokines, expression of adhesion molecules, and induction of oxidative stress. Oxygen radicals are involved in plaque rupture contributing to thromboembolism, resulting in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Thromboembolism and the direct effect of oxygen radicals on myocardial cells cause cardiac damage that results in the release of cardiac troponin-I (cTnI) and other biochemical markers. The soluble RAGE (sRAGE) compete with RAGE for binding with AGE, thus functioning as a decoy and exerting a cytoprotective effect. Low levels of serum sRAGE would allow unopposed serum AGE availability for binding with RAGE, resulting in the generation of oxygen radicals and proinflammatory molecules that have deleterious consequences and promote myocardial damage. sRAGE may stabilize atherosclerotic plaques. It is hypothesized that low levels of sRAGE are associated with high levels of serum cTnI in patients with ACS. The main objective of the study was to determine whether low levels of serum sRAGE are associated with high levels of serum cTnI in ACS patients. The serum levels of sRAGE and cTnI were measured in 36 patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and 30 control subjects. Serum levels of sRAGE were lower in NSTEMI patients (802.56 ± 39.32 pg/mL) as compared with control subjects (1311.43 ± 66.92 pg/mL). The levels of cTnI were higher in NSTEMI patients (2.18 ± 0.33 μg/mL) as compared with control subjects (0.012 ± 0.001 μg/mL). Serum sRAGE levels were negatively correlated with the levels of cTnI. In conclusion, the data suggest that low levels of serum sRAGE are associated with high serum levels of cTnI and that there is a negative correlation between sRAGE and cTnI.

Effect of ursolic acid treatment on apoptosis and DNA damage in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction

The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of ursolic acid (UA) against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction. Myocardial infarction was induced by subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO) (85 mg/kg BW), for two consecutive days. ISO-induced rats showed elevated levels of cardiac troponins T (cTn T) and I (cTn I) and increased activity of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) in serum. Lipid peroxidative markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), conjugated dienes (CD) and lipid hydroperoxides (HP)) elevated in the plasma and heart tissue whereas decreased activities of enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione reductase (GR)) in erythrocytes and heart tissue of ISO-induced rats. Non-enzymatic antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E and reduced glutathione (GSH)) levels were decreased significantly in the plasma and heart tissue of ISO-induced rats. Furthermore, ISO-induced rats showed increased DNA fragmentation, upregulations of myocardial pro-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 associated-x (Bax), caspase-3, -8 and -9, cytochrome c, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Fas and down-regulated expressions of anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL). UA-administered rats showed decreased levels/activity of cardiac markers, DNA fragmentation and the levels of lipid peroxidative markers in the plasma and heart tissue. Activities of enzymatic antioxidants were increased significantly in the erythrocytes and heart tissue and also non-enzymatic antioxidants levels were increased significantly in the plasma and heart tissue in UA-administered rats. UA influenced decreased DNA fragmentation and an apoptosis by upregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and down-regulation of Bax, caspase-3, -8 and -9, cytochrome c, TNF-α, Fas through mitochondrial pathway. Histopathological observations were also found in line with biochemical parameters. Thus, results of the present study demonstrated that the UA has anti-apoptotic properties in ISO-induced rats.

Different treatment interventions affect plasma NT-ProBNP levels and early exercise tolerance in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different treatment interventions on plasma N-terminal fragment of the prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels and early exercise tolerance in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

METHODS

146 consecutive patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction who received emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (n = 55), elective PCI (n = 47), or drug treatment (n = 44) were included. Plasma NT-proBNP levels and left ventricular ejection fractions (LVEFs) were measured before the treatment intervention and at 1 week and 1 month afterward. An exercise stress test was performed 1 month after the intervention, and the occurrences of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were recorded at the 1-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Compared with the elective PCI and drug treatment groups, at 1 week and 1 month after the intervention, the emergency PCI group's plasma NT-proBNP levels were significantly lower, and the group's LVEFs were significantly higher (all P < 0.05). There was a significantly negative correlation between plasma NT-proBNP levels and LVEFs in each group (all P < 0.05). The positive exercise stress testing rates were 13.0%, 32.6%, and 38.6% in the emergency PCI, elective PCI, and drug treatment groups, respectively (P < 0.05). The occurrences of MACE in the emergency PCI, elective PCI, and drug treatment groups were 34.5%, 59.5%, and 65.9%, respectively (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Emergency PCI resulted in lower plasma NT-proBNP levels, lower MACE incidence, higher LVEFs, and better early exercise tolerance compared with elective PCI or drug treatment, indicating that lower plasma NT-proBNP levels predicted a better prognosis.

Antioxidant effects after coffee enema or oral coffee consumption in healthy Thai male volunteers

We designed an open-label, randomized two-phase crossover study to investigate the antioxidant effects after single and multiple doses of a coffee enema versus coffee consumed orally. Eleven healthy subjects were randomly assigned to either receive a coffee enema (3 times weekly for 6 visits) or consume ready-to-drink coffee (2 times daily for 11 days). After a washout period, subjects were switched to receive the alternate coffee procedure. Blood samples were collected at specific time points for the determination of serum levels of glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC). The findings showed that either single or multiple administrations of the coffee enema or orally consumed coffee doses seemed not to produce any beneficial effects to enhance serum GSH levels or to decrease serum MDA levels over the study period of 12 days. In contrast, mean serum TEAC levels at day 12 after the coffee enema and at days 6 and 12 after oral coffee consumption were significantly reduced from their corresponding baseline values. Thus, no beneficial effects with respect to an enhancement of serum GSH and TEAC levels or a decrease in serum MDA concentrations were demonstrated after coffee enema or orally consumed ready-to-drink coffee.

Saliva-based creatine kinase MB measurement as a potential point-of-care testing for detection of myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) is the main cause of death all over the world. Biomarkers of cardiac necrosis are of great importance in the diagnosis of MI. The aim of this study was to determine probable changes of creatine kinase MB isoform (CK-MB) levels in saliva of patients with acute MI. A case-control study was carried out on 30 patients with acute MI who were hospitalized in Kamkar-Arabnia Hospital of Qom City and 30 healthy control subjects. CK-MB levels were measured by immunoinhibition assay in saliva and serum of patients and healthy individuals. Statistical analysis of the Student's t test and Pearson correlation coefficient was used. CK-MB levels showed a significant elevation in saliva and serum of patients with acute MI compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, there was a strong correlation between salivary levels of CK-MB and its serum values. Subsequent to an acute MI, there is a rise in salivary levels of CK-MB just as what occurs in the serum. Moreover, salivary levels of CK-MB reflect well its serum values. It seems that cardiac biomarker CK-MB is measurable in the saliva of patients with acute MI. Salivary CK-MB may serve as an easy-to-use diagnostic tool for point-of-care testing of acute MI.

The polymorphism in aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 gene is associated with elevated plasma levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in the early phase of myocardial infarction

Aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2) is a key enzyme of alcohol metabolism, catalyzing the conversion of aldehyde to acetic acid. The G-to-A polymorphism in exon 12 of the ALDH2 gene, which causes Glu-to-Lys substitution at codon 504, has been shown to be an independent risk factor for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We investigated the possible role of the G-to-A polymorphism in the severity of the myocardial damage in the early phase of AMI by measuring plasma levels of inflammatory markers, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). A total of 226 Han Chinese patients with AMI were divided into two groups: subjects without A allele (GG, n = 144) and subjects with A allele (GA and AA, n = 82), and the blood samples were collected within 12 hours after the onset of AMI. The results displayed that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was higher in GG group than that in GA and AA group (p < 0.05). The body mass index (BMI) and the concentration of hs-CRP were lower in GG group than that in GA and AA group (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that subjects with the A allele were at an increased risk for the high level of hs-CRP (> 3 mg/L) compared with those with GG genotype (OR = 4.908, 95% CI = 1.57 approximately 20.98). Thus, the A allele in ALDH2 gene is associated with the elevated plasma levels of hs-CRP after the onset of AMI, suggesting a higher susceptibility of the myocardium to ischemic injuries.

Susceptibility to Oxidative Stress is Greater in Korean Patients with Coronary Artery Disease than Healthy Subjects

There are some evidences that the increased oxidative stress and thus increased oxidizability of lipoproteins and DNA can contribute to the development of certain human diseases, such as cardiovascular disease. To confirm the association of DNA damage with cardiovascular disease, we investigated susceptibility of DNA to oxidation in lymphocytes and oxidative stress related parameters in blood of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Subjects were consisted of 42 patients (27 men, 15 women) with documented CAD and 49 apparently healthy subjects (33 men, 16 women) as controls. Cellular DNA damage induced by 100 microM H(2)O(2) was measured using Comet assay and quantified by TL. There were no differences in age (61.4 +/- 1.7 years vs 62.0 +/- 2.2 years) between the two groups. All the findings were shown to be independent of either sex or smoking habit. The patients showed significantly higher TL (87.3 +/- 1.6 microm) compared to the control (79.3 +/- 1.7 microm, p<0.01). Plasma TRAP, vitamin C, gamma-tocopherol, and alpha-carotene levels in patients group were lower than those of control groups, while erythrocytic catalase activity increased in patients group. In conclusion, we observed that reduced overall antioxidant status was closely connected to higher susceptibility of DNA damage in CAD patients.

Efficient assay for total antioxidant capacity in human plasma using a 96-well microplate

In the present study, we tried to establish an efficient assay for total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in human plasma using a 96-well microplate. TAC was assessed using lag time by antioxidants against the myoglobin-induced oxidation of 2,2'-azino-di(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) with hydrogen peroxide, and expressed as Trolox equivalent. The linearity of the calibration curve with Trolox was maintained with the Trolox concentration range from 2.5 µM to 25 µM (R² = 0.997). The assay was applied to the measurement of TAC in healthy human plasma. Coefficient of variation in intraday assay was 2.4%. Difference was not observed in interday assay. Plasma TAC of men ((569 ± 41) µM Trolox equivalent; n = 6) was higher than that of women ((430 ± 28) µM Trolox equivalent; n = 4). After the vegetable juice was drunk for 1 week, the increase in plasma TAC was observed in almost all the volunteers. In summary, we developed the efficient assay for plasma TAC using a 96-well microplate.