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Study of the chromium binding in plasma of patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

F Borguet1, R Cornelis, J Delanghe

  • 1Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, University of Gent, Belgium.

Insights

Chromium distribution in plasma proteins of dialysis patients shows it primarily binds to transferrin. A shift to a low molecular weight complex occurs over time, with unidentified chromium species found in dialysis fluid.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Nephrology
  • Radiochemistry

Background:

  • Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) involves fluid exchange, potentially altering trace element distribution.
  • Understanding chromium (Cr) protein binding is crucial for patients undergoing dialysis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distribution of chromium (Cr) among plasma proteins in CAPD patients.
  • To track the kinetics of newly introduced Cr using radiolabeling.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized in vitro and in vivo 51Cr-labeled plasma from three CAPD patients.
  • Separated plasma proteins using ion exchange fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC).
  • Characterized proteins via isoelectric focusing and quantified albumin and transferrin using nephelometry.

Main Results:

  • 51Cr distribution among plasma proteins was consistent across the three patients.
  • 51Cr primarily bound to transferrin, with initial binding also observed on albumin.
  • A time-dependent shift of 51Cr from albumin to an unidentified low molar mass complex (approx. 5000 Da) was noted.
  • Two unidentified 51Cr species were detected in the drained dialysate.

Conclusions:

  • Chromium exhibits specific protein binding patterns in CAPD patients, predominantly to transferrin.
  • The formation of a low molecular weight Cr complex and its presence in dialysate warrant further investigation.
  • Further research is needed to identify the low molecular weight Cr complex and dialysate species.

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