Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Generation of a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Model in Mice by Repeated Ozone Exposure
Published on: August 25, 2017
Systemic antioxidant defences during acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Anna M Sadowska1, Chris Luyten, Anne-Marie Vints
1Department of Pulmonary Medicine, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium. anna.sadowska@ua.ac.be
Objective And Background:
Existence of an increased oxidative stress has been confirmed in patients with acute exacerbation of COPD. This study aims to examine the extent and time-course of antioxidant defence in patients with an acute exacerbation of COPD in comparison with stable patients.
Methods:
Twelve patients with acute exacerbation were studied at admission, and then 24 h and 48 h following admission and at discharge. The antioxidants assessed were the endogenous antioxidants: glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, oxidized and reduced glutathione, albumin and exogenous antioxidants: alpha-tocopherol and retinol. Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity as a marker of antioxidant status was also measured.
Results:
There was an increase in glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase 48 h after admission (P<0.05). Alpha-tocopherol was the lowest 24 h after admission and increased significantly at discharge (P<0.05).
Conclusions:
There is an increase in antioxidant defence during acute exacerbation of COPD reaching a maximum at 48 h after admission. This rise in the antioxidant defence is not sufficient to prevent depletion of non-enzymatic antioxidants such as alpha-tocopherol.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management
Smoking Cessation
