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Free radical generation, lipid peroxidation and essential fatty acids in patients with septicemia
P S Prabha1, U N Das, G Ramesh
1Department of Medicine, Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, India.
Abstract:
Infections due to gram-negative bacteria and other organisms can lead to septicemia and shock in some patients. Endotoxins, which cause these pathophysiological events, stimulate macrophages to elaborate tumor necrosis factor and other lymphokines. These lymphokines can augment free radical generation by polymorphonuclear leukocytes, macrophages and other cells, which may ultimately produce respiratory distress syndrome, multiorgan failure and irreversible shock seen in septicemia. This is supported by our results presented here that there is indeed an increase in free radical generation and lipid peroxidation in patients with septicemia. In addition, analysis of plasma lipid profile in these patients showed that gamma-linolenic, dihomogamma-linolenic and arachidonic acids of n-6 series and alpha-linolenic and eicosapentaenoic acids of the n-3 series are decreased in their plasma phospholipid fraction. These results suggest that free radicals, lipid peroxides, and alteration in essential fatty acid metabolism may have a role in the pathogenesis of septicemia.
Insights
Septicemia increases free radical generation and lipid peroxidation. Essential fatty acid levels in n-3 and n-6 series are decreased in patients with septicemia, suggesting a role in disease development.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pathophysiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Gram-negative bacterial infections can cause septicemia and shock.
- Endotoxins trigger macrophages to release tumor necrosis factor and lymphokines.
- These mediators can increase free radical generation, leading to organ failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of free radicals and lipid peroxidation in septicemia.
- To analyze plasma lipid profiles in septicemia patients.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of free radical generation and lipid peroxidation.
- Analysis of plasma phospholipid fatty acid composition.
Main Results:
- Septicemia patients showed increased free radical generation and lipid peroxidation.
- Plasma phospholipids in septicemia patients had decreased levels of n-6 fatty acids (gamma-linolenic, dihomogamma-linolenic, arachidonic) and n-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic).
Conclusions:
- Free radicals, lipid peroxides, and altered essential fatty acid metabolism are implicated in septicemia pathogenesis.
- Findings suggest potential therapeutic targets related to fatty acid metabolism and oxidative stress.