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Plasma lysosomal glycohydrolases in a general population
1Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Milan, Italy.
Summary
Plasma lysosomal enzyme levels vary with sex, body mass, and alcohol consumption. Establishing a correlated reference population is crucial for accurate diagnostic interpretation of these enzyme changes.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Chemistry
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Lysosomal glycohydrolases are crucial enzymes with potential diagnostic utility.
- Understanding variations in enzyme levels within a general population is essential for accurate interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate plasma levels of key lysosomal glycohydrolases in a general population.
- To assess the influence of age, sex, body mass, smoking, and alcohol consumption on these enzyme levels.
Main Methods:
- Fluorimetric techniques with 4-methylumbelliferyl-glycosides were used to assay enzyme activities.
- Strict protocols for blood sampling and sample preservation were employed to minimize variability.
- A population of 417 subjects was analyzed for enzyme levels and lifestyle factors.
Main Results:
- Beta-glucuronidase levels showed significant variation with sex and body mass.
- Beta-D-galactosidase levels were notably affected by alcohol consumption but not by age, sex, body mass, or smoking.
- Other lysosomal enzymes evaluated included N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, alpha-D-galactosidase, alpha-L-fucosidase, and alpha-D-mannosidase.
Conclusions:
- Plasma lysosomal enzyme levels are influenced by demographic and lifestyle factors.
- Accurate clinical interpretation requires a rigorously correlated reference population.
- Repetitive measurements within individuals may offer better clinical trend insights.