Inhibition of selenium dependent glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in rats by diethyldithiocarbamate: Effect of pre-administration of <img src='/image/spc_char/alpha.gif'> -tocopherol

Abstract

Rats pre-administered with <img src='/image/spc_char/alpha.gif'>-tocopherol (10 mgs/day) for 7 days afforded a significant protection at the tissue level against the lowering of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, especially the selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase. The protective action of <img src='/image/spc_char/alpha.gif'>-tocopherol in the diethyldithiocarbamate treated rats may be attributed to its antioxidant/free radical scavenging action. It is concluded that selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase and <img src='/image/spc_char/alpha.gif'>-tocopherol act in a complementary fashion to block free radical formation.