Glutathione Enzymes in Oesophageal Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Levy R D, Oosthuizen M M J, Degiannis E, Greyling D, Hatzitheofilou C
Primary Institution: Masonic Research Fund [MRF] Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand Medical School
Hypothesis
Are the levels of GSH-replenishing, GSH antioxidant, and GSH-depleting enzymes inadequate in cancer cells to protect against oxyradical-induced mutations?
Conclusion
The study found that while GSH-peroxidase activity was significantly elevated in cancer tissue, the levels of GSSG-reductase and GSH-s-transferase P1-isoenzyme were significantly reduced.
Supporting Evidence
- GSH-peroxidase activity was elevated twofold in cancer tissue compared to normal tissue.
- GSSG-reductase activity was significantly reduced by 23% in cancer tissue.
- GSH-s-transferase P1-isoenzyme levels were significantly reduced by 33% in cancer tissue.
- Lipid peroxidation was elevated sixfold in oesophageal cancer.
Takeaway
In oesophageal cancer, some enzymes that help protect cells from damage are not working properly, which might make the cancer worse.
Methodology
Biopsies and blood from 31 patients with oesophageal cancer and 29 non-cancer patients were assessed for enzyme activity.
Participant Demographics
Patients included 31 with oesophageal cancer and 29 non-cancer patients, primarily South African Blacks.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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