Sapporo Medical Journal

Abstract : Background: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) show a key role in the expansion of tumors. The enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant guarding systems of the cell avoid oxidant harm to various biomolecules by neutralizing produce of free radicals. Glutathione (GSH) and glutathione dependent enzymes [glutathione reductase (GR) glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) are the crucial bases of cellular response to oxidative stress. Glutathione acts an essential part in detoxification of carcinogens. Objectives: To assess the role of antioxidant defense an accomplished by glutathione dependent enzymes with their cofactors and comparative investigation activities of the glutathione-dependent enzymes in the blood serum and saliva in the patients with breast cancer. Materials and Methods: Serum and salivary GSH and glutathione dependent enzymes such as GPx, GST, and GR levels were assessed in 40 healthy controls and 48 females with breast cancer utilizing a spectrophotometer. Serum and salivary trace elements (zinc and selenium) were estimated by utilizing the atom absorption photometry. Results: Serum and saliva analysis displayed significantly diminished (P<0.0001) of GSH, GST, GR and GPx activities in breast cancer patients compared to control group. The mean levels of serum and salivary trace elements (zinc and selenium) were significantly reduced (<0.001) in breast cancer patients as compared to levels of healthy controls. Conclusion: Serum and salivary an