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Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme in leprosy
Indian Journal of Leprosy
|April 1, 1985
Summary
Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity was elevated in armadillos with leprosy, correlating with infection severity. Dapsone treatment normalized these levels, indicating its efficacy in leprosy management.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Leprosy, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, affects various animal species, including armadillos.
- Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is an enzyme involved in various physiological processes.
- Elevated ACE levels have been observed in some human infectious diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate serum ACE activity in armadillos naturally infected with M. leprae.
- To determine the correlation between ACE levels and the extent of leprosy infection.
- To evaluate the effect of dapsone treatment on serum ACE levels in infected armadillos.
Main Methods:
- Serum ACE activity was measured in 91 adult armadillos (healthy and lepromatous).
- Measurements were taken before M. leprae inoculation and at necropsy.
- Armadillos with leprosy received dapsone treatment, and serial ACE assays were performed.
Main Results:
- Mean ACE values were significantly elevated in armadillos with leprosy compared to healthy controls.
- The degree of ACE elevation was proportional to the extent of M. leprae infection.
- Significant differences in serum ACE levels were observed between armadillos from Florida and Louisiana.
- Dapsone treatment effectively normalized the elevated serum ACE levels.
Conclusions:
- Serum ACE activity serves as a potential biomarker for leprosy infection in armadillos.
- ACE levels reflect the extent of M. leprae infection and response to treatment.
- Dapsone therapy is effective in managing leprosy in armadillos, as indicated by the normalization of ACE levels.