Study of the influence of disease duration on glutatione-dependent ensymes dynamics in patients with paranoid...

Aim: The objective of the research was to conduct a comprehensive longitudinal analysis of the temporal dynamics of glutathione system functionality in individuals diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. Specifically, the research was focused on investigating variations in the profiles of glutathione-dependent enzymes, with meticulous consideration given to the duration of the illness.

Materials and Methods: The study group comprised 300 individuals officially diagnosed with 'Paranoid Schizophrenia,' subdivided into five subgroups, each consisting of 60 patients. The subgroups were defined as follows: Subgroup I included 60 patients with a disease duration ranging from 3 to 5 years; Subgroup II comprised 60 patients with a duration of 6 to 10 years; Subgroup III consisted of 60 patients with a duration of 11 to 15 years; Subgroup IV included 60 patients with a duration of 16 to 20 years; and Subgroup V encompassed 60 patients with a duration of 21 years and older. The comparison group comprised 20 patients diagnosed with "Primary psychotic episode".

Results: The research demonstrates a consistent and noteworthy reduction in the enzymatic activities of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione-S-transferase in various Subgroups of paranoid schizophrenia patients. The observed declines are particularly prominent within the first 3-5 years of the illness, show casing statistically significant reductions. Patients with prolonged illness durations, especially surpassing 21 years, display substantial reductions in all three enzymes, suggesting a cumulative enzymatic impact associated with prolonged illness.

Conclusions: The identification of critical periods of inhibition in the glutathione protection chain, provides valuable information about potential therapeutic interventions for individuals with paranoid schizophrenia.