Assessment of Oxidative Stress in Hepatitis C Patients Receiving Interferon Therapy

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: Oxidative stress and antioxidative status caused by hepatitis C therapy plays a significant
role in aggravating the disease. A number of reactive oxygen species are responsible for the damaging of
cell machinery and ultimately disturbing the homeostasis of the cell.
Objectives: To assess enzymatic, non-enzymatic antioxidants and circulating biomarkers in HCV
patients receiving interferon therapy.
Methods: Study subjects were divided into two groups; patients and controls. The levels of the
Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS, as a marker of lipid peroxidation), superoxide dismutase
(SOD), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and lipid peroxidation product (MDA) in the serum were
estimated.
Results: There was statistically difference between patients and healthy controls in levels of CAT(p<
0.000**), SOD( p< 0.000**), GSH (p< 0.000**)and MDA(p< 0.000**). Similarly, the levels of ALT (p<
0.048*), AST (p< 0.005*) and ALP (p< 0.000**) were also statistically different between two groups.

1 Arif Malik
Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore.
2 Muhammad Saeed Qureshi
Department of Biochemistry, Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore.
3 Abdul Manan
Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore.
4 Saadia Saleem
Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore.
5 Mamoona Munir
Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore.
6 Atiya Fatima
Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore.
7 Mahwish Arooj
Center for Research in Molecular Medicine, University of Lahore.
8 Muhammad Husain Qazi
Center for Research in Molecular Medicine, University of Lahore.
Corresponding Author
Arif Malik

Conclusion: Imbalanced levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, MDA and serum
enzymes (e.g. ALT, AST, ALP) revealed that interferon itself play a crucial rule in disturbing oxidative vs.
antioxidative status which ultimately results in tissue damaging. Increased levels of MDA have a
significant correlation with disease development during the course of therapy.
KEY WORDS: ALT, AST ALP, Antioxidants, MDA (Malonyldialdehyde) Superoxide dismutase, Catalase,
Reduced Glutathione.