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Glutathione metabolism and antioxidant enzymes in children with Down syndrome

Anna Pastore1, Giulia Tozzi, Laura Maria Gaeta

  • 1Laboratory of Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine Unit, Children's Hospital and Research Institute Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy.

The Journal of Pediatrics
|May 21, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Children with Down syndrome exhibit lower glutathione levels and imbalanced antioxidant enzyme activity, suggesting a role for oxidative stress in the condition. This impacts overall health and cellular aging processes.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Oxidative stress is implicated in atherosclerosis, aging, and neurological issues in Down syndrome.
  • Down syndrome is associated with increased susceptibility to oxidative damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate glutathione levels and antioxidant enzyme activity in children with Down syndrome.
  • To explore the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of Down syndrome.

Main Methods:

  • Quantification of all glutathione forms in blood samples.
  • Assessment of in vivo antioxidant enzyme activities.
  • Comparison between children with and without Down syndrome.

Main Results:

  • A systemic decrease in all glutathione forms, including glutathionyl-hemoglobin, was observed in children with Down syndrome.
  • An in vivo disequilibrium in antioxidant enzyme activities was detected.
  • These findings indicate a significant alteration in the oxidative stress balance.

Conclusions:

  • The study highlights a systemic depletion of glutathione and imbalanced antioxidant defenses in Down syndrome.
  • These biochemical alterations likely contribute to the increased oxidative stress observed in individuals with Down syndrome.
  • Further research is warranted to explore therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative stress in Down syndrome.

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