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Protective role of vitamin E on mefenamic acid-induced alterations in erythrocytes
1Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Allahabad 211002, UP, India. ahmadimtiaz@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Erythrocyte osmotic fragility (O.F.), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and the level of malonyl dialdehyde (MDA) of control, mefenamic acid treated, and mefenamic acid with vitamin E treated rats were investigated. Administration of mefenamic acid to albino rats brought about a significant increase in the osmotic fragility of red cells and a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in the activity of AChE. We have also observed increased red cell level of MDA and decreased cholesterol (Chl), hemoglobin (Hb), and reduced glutathione (GSH) content. Supplementation of vitamin E to the mefenamic acid treated rats restored the O.F., AChE activity, level of MDA, and Chl, Hb, and GSH content almost to normal. These observations suggest that mefenamic acid causes functional impairment of red cell membrane, while vitamin E shows its protective role in maintaining normal red cell functions.
Insights
Mefenamic acid harms red blood cells by increasing osmotic fragility and decreasing enzyme activity. Vitamin E supplementation protects against these harmful effects, restoring normal red blood cell function.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like mefenamic acid can cause gastrointestinal and hematological side effects.
- Red blood cell membrane integrity is crucial for oxygen transport and overall health.
- Oxidative stress is implicated in NSAID-induced red blood cell damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of mefenamic acid on erythrocyte osmotic fragility, acetylcholinesterase activity, and lipid peroxidation.
- To evaluate the protective role of vitamin E against mefenamic acid-induced red blood cell damage.
Main Methods:
- Erythrocyte osmotic fragility, acetylcholinesterase activity, and malondialdehyde levels were measured in control, mefenamic acid-treated, and vitamin E-supplemented mefenamic acid-treated rats.
- Cholesterol, hemoglobin, and reduced glutathione content in erythrocytes were also assessed.
Main Results:
- Mefenamic acid significantly increased erythrocyte osmotic fragility and malondialdehyde levels.
- Acetylcholinesterase activity, cholesterol, hemoglobin, and reduced glutathione content were significantly decreased in mefenamic acid-treated rats.
- Vitamin E supplementation normalized these altered erythrocyte parameters.
Conclusions:
- Mefenamic acid impairs red blood cell membrane function, potentially through oxidative stress mechanisms.
- Vitamin E exhibits a protective effect, preserving red blood cell integrity and function when co-administered with mefenamic acid.