Assessment of antioxidant system status before and after operation in neonates with congenital heart disease

F Ozlu1, G A Demiray2, D Güneş3

  • 1Department of Neonatology, Çukurova University, Adana, Türkiye.

Insights

This study found that glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels decreased after surgery in newborns with congenital heart disease (CHD). These oxidative stress biomarkers may be important for monitoring patient recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Oxidative Stress Research

Background:

  • Oxidative stress plays a key role in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
  • Congenital heart disease (CHD) in newborns often requires surgical intervention.
  • Evaluating the antioxidant system's status is crucial for understanding disease progression and recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the antioxidant system status in newborns with CHD before and after surgery.
  • To identify potential biomarkers of oxidative stress related to CHD and its treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Studied 50 newborns with CHD undergoing surgery.
  • Measured levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in blood.
  • Recorded RACHS-1 score, lactate levels, and hypoxic events.

Main Results:

  • Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and TBARS levels were significantly higher pre-operatively compared to post-operatively.
  • Lower GPx activity correlated with fewer hypoxic events in discharged patients.
  • A negative correlation was observed between SOD and GPx activities pre-operatively.

Conclusions:

  • Post-operative reduction in GPx activity and TBARS levels indicates significant alterations in the antioxidant system.
  • GPx appears crucial for resistance to hypoxic conditions in CHD patients.
  • Further long-term monitoring is needed to understand antioxidant system changes and improve treatment strategies.
Abstract