Leucocyte glutathione peroxidase activity and selenium level in multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Clinical Chemistry
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Previous studies indicated reduced erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
• Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathophysiology of MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the activity of peroxide-regulating enzymes (GSH-Px and glutathione reductase (GSSG-Rd)) in leucocytes and erythrocytes of MS patients.
• To assess selenium levels in whole blood and beta-glucuronidase activity in serum of MS patients.

Main Methods:

• Assay of GSH-Px and GSSG-Rd activities in leucocytes and erythrocytes.
• Measurement of whole blood and serum selenium levels.
• Assay of serum beta-glucuronidase activity.

Main Results:

• GSH-Px activity was significantly decreased (35-50%) in lymphocytes and granulocytes of MS patients.
• Erythrocyte GSSG-Rd activity showed an insignificant decrease in MS patients.
• The erythrocyte GSH-Px:GSSG-Rd ratio was lower in MS patients (8.0) compared to controls (11.0).
• Whole blood and serum selenium levels were normal in Danish MS patients.
• Erythrocyte selenium levels were higher in Danish MS patients than in controls.

Conclusions:

• MS patients exhibit significantly reduced GSH-Px activity in white blood cells, suggesting impaired antioxidant defense.
• While blood and serum selenium levels are normal, erythrocyte selenium is elevated in MS patients, indicating potential alterations in selenium distribution or metabolism.
• These findings contribute to understanding the biochemical alterations associated with MS and highlight the role of antioxidant enzymes and selenium.