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Published on: February 15, 2020
Oxidative DNA damage in patients with cataract
Orhan Ates1, Hakan Hamit Alp, Ibrahim Kocer
1Department of Ophthalmology, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey. orhanates69@hotmail.com
Patients with cataract exhibit elevated levels of oxidative DNA damage, indicated by higher 8-hydroxy 2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in leukocytes and malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma. These markers of oxidative stress are significantly increased compared to healthy individuals.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biochemistry
- Oxidative Stress Research
Background:
- Cataract is a leading cause of visual impairment globally.
- Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of various age-related diseases, including cataract.
- Biomarkers of oxidative damage require further investigation in cataract patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and quantify oxidative DNA damage in patients diagnosed with cataract.
- To assess levels of 8-hydroxy 2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as indicators of oxidative stress.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were obtained from 60 cataract patients and 60 healthy controls.
- Leukocyte DNA was analyzed for 8-hydroxy 2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels.
- Plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were quantified as a marker of lipid peroxidation.
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated leukocyte 8-OHdG levels were found in cataract patients compared to controls (p < 0.001).
- Significantly elevated plasma MDA levels were observed in cataract patients versus controls (p < 0.001).
- A strong positive correlation was detected between leukocyte 8-OHdG and plasma MDA levels (r = 0.859, p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Patients with cataract show increased levels of oxidative DNA damage.
- Malondialdehyde serves as a reliable indicator of lipid peroxidation in cataract.
- Elevated oxidative stress markers are associated with cataract development.
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