Oxidative burden and antioxidant defense system in polymorphonuclear leukocytes of human lung diseases

Abstract

Superoxide anion (O2.^-) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) production was significantly higher in blood neutrophils (PMNs) of patients with lung cancer and non-malignant lung diseases when compared to the controls (<i>p</i><0.001). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significantly decreased in PMNs of patients with lung cancer (<i>p</i><0.00l). Similarly, catalase

and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were lower in PMNs of lung cancer patients as compared to non-malignant lung diseases and controls. There was an increase in HMP shunt activity as measured by rate of formation of ¹⁴CO₂ from [1-¹⁴C]-glucose in PMNs of lung cancer patients. Modifications in the antioxidant defense system in PMNs of malignant and non-malignant lung diseases, the changes being more in the malignancy are indicated.