Antioxidant in plasma of hemoglobin-E trait

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Hematology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• The hemoglobin E (HbE) trait is prevalent in certain populations, including Thailand.
• Antioxidants play a crucial role in cellular protection against oxidative stress.
• The impact of the HbE trait on antioxidant status is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and quantify antioxidant levels in Thai subjects carrying the hemoglobin E trait.
• To determine if the presence of the HbE trait is associated with altered antioxidant capacity.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 185 Thai subjects.
• Recruitment of 171 healthy volunteers and 14 individuals with the HbE trait.
• Antioxidant capacity was measured using the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay.

Main Results:

• The average antioxidant level in the healthy group was 3.439 ± 0.220 mM Trolox equivalent.
• The average antioxidant level in the HbE trait group was 3.276 ± 0.209 mM Trolox equivalent.
• A statistically significant decrease (p = 0.008) in antioxidant levels was observed in the HbE trait group.

Conclusions:

• The hemoglobin E trait is associated with a significant reduction in antioxidant levels.
• Individuals with the HbE trait may experience increased oxidative stress due to diminished antioxidant capacity.
• Further research is warranted to explore the clinical implications of reduced antioxidant levels in HbE trait carriers.