Ewa Birkner

Publications of Ewa Birkner

• Short-term exposure to 50 Hz ELF-EMF alters the cisplatin-induced oxidative response in AT478 murine squamous cell carcinoma cells.

  Authors: Rafał Jakub Bułdak, Renata Polaniak, Lukasz Bułdak, Krystyna Zwirska-Korczala, Magdalena Skonieczna, Aleksandra Monsiol, Michał Kukla, Anna Duława-Bułdak, Ewa Birkner

  Bioelectromagnetics. 04/2012;

  The aim of this study was to assess the influence of cisplatin and an extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) on antioxidant enzyme activity and the lipid peroxidation ratio, as wellThe aim of this study was to assess the influence of cisplatin and an extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) on antioxidant enzyme activity and the lipid peroxidation ratio, as well as the level of DNA damage and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in AT478 carcinoma cells. Cells were cultured for 24 and 72 h in culture medium with cisplatin. Additionally, the cells were irradiated with 50 Hz/1 mT ELF-EMF for 16 min using a solenoid as a source of the ELF-EMF. The amount of ROS, superoxide dismutase (SOD) isoenzyme activity, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity, DNA damage, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were assessed. Cells that were exposed to cisplatin exhibited a significant increase in ROS and antioxidant enzyme activity. The addition of ELF-EMF exposure to cisplatin treatment resulted in decreased ROS levels and antioxidant enzyme activity. A significant reduction in MDA concentrations was observed in all of the study groups, with the greatest decrease associated with treatment by both cisplatin and ELF-EMF. Cisplatin induced the most severe DNA damage; however, when cells were also irradiated with ELF-EMF, less DNA damage occurred. Exposure to ELF-EMF alone resulted in an increase in DNA damage compared to control cells. ELF-EMF lessened the effects of oxidative stress and DNA damage that were induced by cisplatin; however, ELF-EMF alone was a mild oxidative stressor and DNA damage inducer. We speculate that ELF-EMF exerts differential effects depending on the exogenous conditions. This information may be of value for appraising the pathophysiologic consequences of exposure to ELF-EMF. Bioelectromagnetics. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

• The influence of vitamin E and methionine on the activity of enzymes and the morphological picture of liver of rats intoxicated with sodium fluoride.

  Authors: Barbara Stawiarska-Pięta, Beata Bielec, Katarzyna Birkner, Ewa Birkner

  Food and chemical toxicology : an international journal published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association. 01/2012; 50(3-4):972-978.

  The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of vitamin E and methionine on the activity of enzymes regulating carbohydrate metabolism and enzymes associated with glutathione as well as toThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of vitamin E and methionine on the activity of enzymes regulating carbohydrate metabolism and enzymes associated with glutathione as well as to examine the morphology of the liver in rats exposed to sodium fluoride. The study was conducted in 18 male rats of Wistar strain. The rats were divided into three groups: a control group, which received distilled water and two experimental groups, which received sodium fluoride (10mg/kg of body mass/24h) in water solution. Animals in the second experimental group received 3mg of vitamin E/rat/24h and 2mg methionine/rat/24h. The experiment lasted 35days. In supernatants obtained after homogenization of rat liver slices, the activity of the following enzymes was assayed: fructose-1,6-biphosphate aldolase (ALD) malate dehydrogenase (MDH), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione transferase (GST) and glutathione reductase (GR). Pathomorphological evaluation was conducted on preparations made by standard paraffin method, followed by staining with hematoxylin and eosin. The administration of antioxidants counteracted changes in the activity of the enzymes and the morphological abnormalities of the liver induced by NaF. Antioxidants may be important in preventing toxicity of fluoride compounds.

• Influence of Methionine and Vitamin E on Fluoride Concentration in Bones and Teeth of Rats Exposed to Sodium Fluoride in Drinking Water.

  Authors: Iwona Błaszczyk, Ewa Birkner, Izabela Gutowska, Ewa Romuk, Dariusz Chlubek

  Biological trace element research. 11/2011;

  Increased exposure to fluorine-containing compounds leads to accumulation of fluorides in hard tissues of bones and teeth, which may result in numerous skeletal and dental disorders. This studyIncreased exposure to fluorine-containing compounds leads to accumulation of fluorides in hard tissues of bones and teeth, which may result in numerous skeletal and dental disorders. This study evaluates the influence of methionine and vitamin E on fluoride concentration in bones and teeth of rats subjected to long-term exposure to sodium fluoride in drinking water. The study was conducted in 30 3-month-old female Wistar FL rats. The animals were divided into five groups, six rats per group. The control group consisted of rats receiving only distilled water as drinking water. All other groups received NaF in the amount of 10 mg/kg of body mass/day in their drinking water. In addition, respective animal groups received: NaF + Met group-10 mg of methionine/kg of body mass/day, NaF + Met + E group-10 mg of methionine/kg of body mass/day and 3 mg of vitamin E (tocopheroli acetas)/rat/day and NaF + E group-3 mg of vitamin E/rat/day. Femoral bones and incisor teeth were collected for the study, and the fluoride concentration was determined using a fluoride ion-selective electrode. Fluoride concentration in both bones and teeth was found to be higher in the NaF and NaF + Met groups compared to the control group. In groups NaF + Met + E and NaF + E, the study material contained much lower fluoride concentration compared to the NaF group, while the effect was more prominent in the NaF + E group. The results of the studies indicate that methionine and vitamin E have opposite effects on accumulation of fluorides in hard tissue in rats. By stimulating fluoride accumulation, methionine reduces the adverse effect of fluorides on soft tissue, while vitamin E, which prevents excessive accumulation of fluorides in bones and teeth, protects these tissues from fluorosis. Therefore, it seems that combined application of both compounds would be optimal for the prevention of the adverse effects of chronic fluoride intoxication.

• Effects of oxidized cooking oil and α-lipoic acid on blood antioxidants: enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation in rats fed a high-fat diet.

  Authors: Jolanta Zalejska-Fiolka, Tomasz Wielkoszyński, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Aleksandra Kasperczyk, Ewa Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 09/2011; 145(2):217-21.

  The effects of administration of oxidized rapeseed oil and α-lipoic acid on activities of blood antioxidant enzymes and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were studied in laboratory rats fed aThe effects of administration of oxidized rapeseed oil and α-lipoic acid on activities of blood antioxidant enzymes and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were studied in laboratory rats fed a high-fat diet. Addition of oxidized oil resulted in increased production of oxygen radicals, evidenced by elevated plasma MDA production. Such effect was counteracted by administration of α-lipoic acid. There was an increase of the activities of superoxide dismutase (total and Cu/Zn-SOD) and catalase in rats fed a high-fat diet to which 10% oxidized oil was added. Administration of α-lipoic acid resulted in a decrease of the activities of these enzymes.

• The assessment of lipid peroxidation products and the activity of superoxide dismutase in patients with heart failure.

  Authors: Ewa Romuk, Wojciech Jacheć, Bronisława Skrzep-Poloczek, Celina Wojciechowska, Kamil Kurza, Agnieszka Wróblewska, Marta Cwieczek, Ewa Birkner

  Wiadomości lekarskie (Warsaw, Poland : 1960). 01/2011; 64(2):75-8.

  The study concerns determination of disturbances of the oxidative-antioxidative balance in patients with heart failure. The study group consisted of 37 patients, having the average age of 42.3 +/-The study concerns determination of disturbances of the oxidative-antioxidative balance in patients with heart failure. The study group consisted of 37 patients, having the average age of 42.3 +/- 12.3 years, suffering from idiopathic or inflammatory heart failure. The patients have been qualified as degree II/III in accordance with NYHA scale. A statistically significant increase of anty-oxLDL level (254.28 +/- 80.79 vs 196.64 +/- 83.11 mU/ml; p<0.01) and malondialdehyde level (4.86 +/- 1.74 vs 3.71 +/- 1.19 micromol/l; p<0.05) has been demonstrated after 6-month observation. No statistically significant differences have been found for the activity of total superoxide dismutase (SOD) and its isoenzymes--(SOD-Mn) and (SOD-ZnCu). The results of the study indicate that no changes in SOD activity and increase in lipid peroxidation products level may lead to generation of oxidative stress may play an important role in the pathogenesis of heart failure.

• Level of DNA damage in lead-exposed workers.

  Authors: Elżbieta Olewińska, Aleksandra Kasperczyk, Lucyna Kapka, Agnieszka Kozłowska, Natalia Pawlas, Michał Dobrakowski, Ewa Birkner, Sławomir Kasperczyk

  Annals of agricultural and environmental medicine : AAEM. 12/2010; 17(2):231-6.

  Lead plays a significant role in modern industry. This metal is related to a broad range of physiological, biochemical and behavioural dysfunctions. The genotoxic effects of lead have been studiedLead plays a significant role in modern industry. This metal is related to a broad range of physiological, biochemical and behavioural dysfunctions. The genotoxic effects of lead have been studied both in animals and humans in in vitro systems but results were contradictory. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between DNA damage and occupational exposure to lead in workers. The study population consisted of 62 employees of metalworks exposed to lead in the southern region of Poland. The control group consisted of 26 office workers with no history of occupational exposure to lead. The concentration of lead (PbB) and zincprotoporphyrin (ZPP) in blood samples were measured. The DNA damage was analyzed in blood lymphocytes using alkaline comet assay. The level of DNA damage was determined as the percentage of DNA in the tail, tail length and tail moment. The lead exposure indicators were significantly higher in lead exposed group: PbB about 8.5 times and ZPP 3.3 times. Also, the percentage of DNA in the tail (60.3 ± 14 vs. 37.1 ± 17.6), comet tail length (86.9 ± 15.49 vs. 73.8 ± 19.12) and TM (57.8 ± 17.82 vs. 33.2 ± 19.13) were significantly higher in the study group when compared with the controls; however, the difference between the subgroups was only 5-10%. Years of lead exposure positively correlated with all comet assay parameters (R = 0.21-0.41). Both mean and current PbB and ZPP were correlated with tail DNA % and TM (R = 0.32; R = 0.33; R = 0.24; R = 0.26 and R = 0.34; R = 0.33; R = 0.28 and R = 0.28, respectively). This study shows that occupational exposure to lead is associated with DNA damage and confirmed that comet assay is a rapid, sensitive method suitable for biomonitoring studies.

• Decrease in antioxidant status of plasma and erythrocytes from patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

  Authors: Agata Stanek, Grzegorz Cieślar, Ewa Romuk, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Karolina Sieroń-Stołtny, Ewa Birkner, Aleksander Sieroń

  Clinical biochemistry. 04/2010; 43(6):566-70.

  The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant status in plasma and erythrocytes from patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). 16 patients with AS and 16 healthy volunteers were involved inThe aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant status in plasma and erythrocytes from patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). 16 patients with AS and 16 healthy volunteers were involved in this study. Activities of antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and its isoenzymes - (SOD-Mn) and (SOD-ZnCu), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione transferase (GST), as well as the total antioxidant status (TAS) and concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma and/or erythrocytes, respectively were determined. In patients with AS, a statistically significant decrease in plasma activity of SOD, SOD-CuZn and TAS, significant drop in activity of SOD, GPx, GST and GR in erythrocytes, as well as increased concentration of MDA in comparison with control group of healthy volunteers was observed. Decrease in antioxidant status leading to generation of oxidative stress may play an important role in the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis.

• Influence of methionine on toxicity of fluoride in the liver of rats.

  Authors: Iwona Błaszczyk, Ewa Birkner, Sławomir Kasperczyk

  Biological trace element research. 03/2010; 139(3):325-31.

  Oxidative stress is a common mechanism by which chemical toxicity can occur in the liver. The aim of the studies conducted has been to determine what influence the administration of methionine duringOxidative stress is a common mechanism by which chemical toxicity can occur in the liver. The aim of the studies conducted has been to determine what influence the administration of methionine during intoxication with sodium fluoride may have upon the selected enzymes of the antioxidative system in rat liver. The experiment was carried out on Wistar FL rats (adult females) that, for 35 days, were administered distilled water, NaF, or NaF with methionine (doses: 10 mg NaF/kg bw/day, 10 mg Met/kg bw/day). The influence of administered NaF and Met was examined by analyzing the activity of the antioxidative enzymes: superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione transferase in the liver. The results suggest that fluoride reduces the efficiency of the enzymatic antioxidative system in the liver. Administration of methionine during intoxication with sodium fluoride does not have an advantageous influence upon the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, reductase, and glutathione transferase in the liver. The slight increase of the activity of glutathione peroxidase after administration of methionine may indicate its protective influence upon that enzyme.

• Effects of oxidized cooking oil and α-lipoic acid on liver antioxidants: enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation in rats fed a high fat diet.

  Authors: Jolanta Zalejska-Fiolka, Tomasz Wielkoszyński, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Aleksandra Kasperczyk, Ewa Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 02/2010; 138(1-3):272-81.

  The effects of administration of oxidized rapeseed oil and α-lipoic acid on activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation were studied in laboratory rats. There was an increase ofThe effects of administration of oxidized rapeseed oil and α-lipoic acid on activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation were studied in laboratory rats. There was an increase of the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in rats fed a high fat diet to which 10% oxidized oil was added. Administration of α-lipoic acid resulted in a decrease of the activities of these enzymes. Addition of oxidized oil also resulted in increased production of oxygen radicals, evidenced by elevated malondialdehyde production. Such effect was counteracted by administration of α-lipoic acid.

• Influence of Methionine upon the Activity of Antioxidative Enzymes in The Kidney of Rats Exposed to Sodium Fluoride.

  Authors: Iwona Błaszczyk, Ewa Grucka-Mamczar, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Ewa Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 07/2009;

  The intensified or uncontrolled formation of reactive oxygen species leads to disturbances of numerous biochemical processes. Among the factors inducing intensified free radical processes, fluorideThe intensified or uncontrolled formation of reactive oxygen species leads to disturbances of numerous biochemical processes. Among the factors inducing intensified free radical processes, fluoride ions are listed, among others. One of the organs most exposed to the toxic activity of fluorides is the kidney. In the study presented here, the influence of fluorine upon the activity of selected antioxidant enzymes in rat kidney has been examined, as well as antioxidant properties of methionine during intoxication with sodium fluoride. The experiment was carried out on Wistar FL rats (adult females) that for 35 days were administered water, NaF, NaF with methionine (doses: 10 mg NaF/kg bw/day, 10 mg Met/kg bw/day) . The influence of administered NaF and Met upon the antioxidative system in kidney was examined by analyzing the activity of the most important antioxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPX, GR, GST). The studies carried out confirmed the disadvantageous effect of NaF upon the antioxidative system in rats (decrease in activity of antioxidative enzymes). Methionine increased the activity of antioxidative enzymes, most efficiently that of GPX, GR, and GST.

• The Role of the Antioxidant Enzymes in Erythrocytes in the Development of Arterial Hypertension among Humans Exposed to Lead.

  Authors: Sławomir Kasperczyk, Janusz Kasperczyk, Alina Ostałowska, Jolanta Zalejska-Fiolka, Tomasz Wielkoszyński, Elżbieta Swiętochowska, Ewa Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 02/2009;

  The study population included employees of metal works, with significant exposure to lead (Pb) for about 20 years (mean blood lead level PbB = 43 mug/dl), divided into four groups: normotensiveThe study population included employees of metal works, with significant exposure to lead (Pb) for about 20 years (mean blood lead level PbB = 43 mug/dl), divided into four groups: normotensive (Pb-normotensive), high-normotensive, first (HT-1), and second degree (HT-2) of hypertension. The control group comprised of 30 office workers with normal blood pressure and no history of occupational exposure to lead. In erythrocytes, the activity of antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation (measured as concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA)) was estimated. MDA concentration, glutathione peroxide (GPx), and superoxide dimutase (SOD) activities were significantly higher in Pb-normotensive group when compared to the normotensive control. Body mass index, age, duration of exposure to lead, and PbB were higher in both hypertensive groups than in Pb-normotensive or high-normotensive groups. MDA increased in HT-1 group by 48% and in HT-2 by 72%, and the activity of GPx decreased significantly in HT-1 group, by 30% and in HT-2 by 43%. No significant differences were observed in their activity of SOD, catalase, and glutathione reductase in erythrocytes. Arterial blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic) positively correlated with body mass index (BMI), age, lead exposure duration, PbB, MDA, and negatively correlated with GPx. There was no significant correlation between BMI and MDA, BMI and GPx, age and MDA, AND age and GPx. In conclusion: (1) lead increases erythrocyte MDA concentration and the activity of GPx as well as SOD in normotensive subjects. (2) Among individuals exposed to lead, with arterial hypertension diagnosed, higher body mass index, age, values of blood lead level, and prolonged exposure to lead have been noticed, accompanied by intensified oxidative stress and the decrease in the activity of glutathione peroxidase in erythrocytes. The reasons for increase of blood pressure in lead exposure remain unrecognized.

• [Activity of antioxidative enzymes and concentration of malondialdehyde as oxidative status markers in women with non-autoimmunological subclinical hyperthyroidism.]

  Authors: Barbara Rybus-Kalinowska, Krystyna Zwirska-Korczala, Mariusz Kalinowski, Michał Kukla, Ewa Birkner, Jerzy Jochem

  Endokrynologia Polska. 02/2009; 60(3):199-202.

  Introduction: The recent investigations point out the significant role of oxidative stress in the development of thyroid gland disease. The present study was designed to investigate the variation ofIntroduction: The recent investigations point out the significant role of oxidative stress in the development of thyroid gland disease. The present study was designed to investigate the variation of oxidative stae in women with non-autoimmunological subclinical hyperthyroidism. Material and methods: The study was conducted on 20 females with non-autoimmunological subclinical hyperthyroidism and 15 healthy women. Manganase-containing superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) and extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) plasma activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) plasma concentration were measured. Results: EC-SOD plasma activity was significantly higher in women with subclinical hyperthyroidism when compared with the control group (13.3 +/- 2.1 vs. 10.9 +/- 1.4 NU/ml; p < 0.05), unlike Mn-SOD (4.2 +/- 0.5 vs. 4.0 +/- 1.0 NU/ml). MDA plasma concentration increased significantly in women with subclinical hyperthyroidism (3.5 +/- 1.2 vs. 2.0 +/- 0.6 mumol/l; p < 0.05). Conclusions: The increased EC-SOD plasma activity may reflect disturbances of oxidative state in subclinical hyperthyroidism. Parallel increase of MDA plasma concentration may indicate enhancement of lipid peroxidationin in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism.

• Influence of Methionine upon the Concentration of Malondialdehyde in the Tissues and Blood of Rats Exposed to Sodium Fluoride.

  Authors: Iwona Błaszczyk, Ewa Grucka-Mamczar, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Ewa Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 02/2009;

  The aim of the study has been to determine the influence upon the kidney, liver, and the blood prooxidative system, exercised by administration of methionine (Met), under conditions of oxidativeThe aim of the study has been to determine the influence upon the kidney, liver, and the blood prooxidative system, exercised by administration of methionine (Met), under conditions of oxidative stress induced by sodium fluoride (NaF).The experiment was carried out on Wistar FL rats (adult females) that, for 35 days, were administered distelled water, NaF or NaF with methionine (doses: 10 mg NaF/kg bw/day, 10 mg Met/kg bw/day). The influence of administered NaF and Met was examined by analyzing the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in kidney, liver, erythrocytes, and blood plasma.The study confirmed the disadvantageous effect of NaF upon the antixodative system in rats (an increase in the concentration of MDA).The administration od methionine reduced the process of lipid peroxidation (a decreased in the concentration of MDA). The best antioxidative properties have been demonstrated by methionine in rat liver.

• The Influence of Rich-in-Cholesterol Diet and Fluoride Ions Contained in Potable Water Upon the Concentration of Malondialdehyde and the Activity of Selected Antioxidative Enzymes in Rabbit Liver.

  Authors: Ewa Birkner, Ewa Grucka-Mamczar, Barbara Stawiarska-Pięta, Katarzyna Birkner, Jolanta Zalejska-Fiolka, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Aleksandra Kasperczyk

  Biological trace element research. 02/2009;

  Two experiments have been carried out, each on 18 (male) rabbits of the New Zealand breed. In each of them, animals were divided into three groups of six: control group, cholesterol group (CH), andTwo experiments have been carried out, each on 18 (male) rabbits of the New Zealand breed. In each of them, animals were divided into three groups of six: control group, cholesterol group (CH), and cholesterol + fluoride group (CH+F). Experimental hypercholesterolemia has been induced in the animals with the diet enriched with 0.5 and 2 g% of cholesterol/100 g of fodder/24 h. The rabbits from CH+F groups have also been administered fluoride ions contained in drinking water (3 mg F(-)/kg of body mass/24 h). The influence of fluoride ions upon the concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and activity of antioxidative enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), mitochondrial enzyme (MnSOD), cytoplasmatic enzyme (ZnCuSOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), has been examined in liver of rabbits. An increase (in comparison with cholesterol groups) in the concentration of MDA in both (CH+F) groups in rabbit liver has been noted. Moreover, a decrease (statistically significant) of SOD and MnSOD has been found in cholesterol groups, as well as in groups (CH+F) in comparison with control group. Furthermore, a decrease in the activity of SOD under the influence of F(-) together with increased activity of MnSOD (statistically significant in comparison with cholesterol groups) have been observed. The activity of ZnCuSOD increased in statistically significant manner in (CH) groups vs control group and decreased (statistically significantly in relation to cholesterol groups) under the influence of F(-).

• The Influence of Fluoride Ions upon Selected Enzymes of Protein Metabolism in Blood Plasma of Rabbits with Hypercholesterolemia.

  Authors: Ewa Birkner, Ewa Grucka-Mamczar, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Aleksandra Kasperczyk, Barbara Stawiarska-Pięta, Jolanta Zalejska-Fiolka, Beata Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 06/2008;

  Three-month studies were performed on 18 adult rabbits of New Zealand breed divided into three groups, with six animals in each: a control group on standard diet, a cholesterol group receiving 500 mgThree-month studies were performed on 18 adult rabbits of New Zealand breed divided into three groups, with six animals in each: a control group on standard diet, a cholesterol group receiving 500 mg of cholesterol/100 g of feed per rabbit per 24 h (CH group), and a cholesterol + fluorine group (CH + F group) receiving 500 mg of cholesterol/100 g of feed per rabbit per 24 h and 3 mg of F(-)/kg of body weight per 24 h. The conducted studies proved that cholesterol in the applied dosage (500 mg cholesterol per rabbit per 24 h) has an atherogenic action. Fluoride ions administered together with a 500-mg cholesterol atherogenic diet inhibit the atheromatosic changes in the aorta. The concentration of plasma cholesterol was elevated in both study groups when compared to the control group but decreased in the CH + F group when compare to the CH group. The influence of fluoride ions has been examined upon the activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) in the plasma in the liver of rabbits in the course of experimental hypercholesterolemia. Increase in the activity of study enzymes has been observed in the blood plasma, which may be due to damage occurring to hepatocytes of the animals examined (a statistically significant increase in the activity of GLDH in the plasma). In the liver, the inhibition of activity for all examined enzymes has been observed in the group of rabbits with hypercholesterolemia, which testifies the disturbances in protein metabolism in examined animals. The addition of sodium fluoride to the diet rich in cholesterol results in "removing the block" on those activities, which increase. We suppose that the permeability of the hepatocyte membrane was elevated, so the activities of examined enzymes increased in the plasma ("escape" to plasma). On the one hand, fluoride ions result in probable lesion of hepatocytes membranes; on the other hand, they inhibit the atheromatosic changes in the aorta.

• Assessment of semen function and lipid peroxidation among lead exposed men.

  Authors: Aleksandra Kasperczyk, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Stanisław Horak, Alina Ostałowska, Ewa Grucka-Mamczar, Ewa Romuk, Anita Olejek, Ewa Birkner

  Toxicology and applied pharmacology. 06/2008; 228(3):378-84.

  The study population included healthy, fertile men, employees of Zinc and Lead Metalworks (n=63). Workers exposed to lead were divided into two groups: a group with moderate exposure to lead (ME) -The study population included healthy, fertile men, employees of Zinc and Lead Metalworks (n=63). Workers exposed to lead were divided into two groups: a group with moderate exposure to lead (ME) - blood lead level (PbB) 25-40 microg/dl and a group with high exposure to lead (HE) PbB=40-81 microg/dl. The control group consisted of office workers with no history of occupational exposure to lead. Evaluation of lead, cadmium and zinc level in blood and seminal plasma, zinc protoporphyrin in blood (ZPP), 5-aminolevulinic acid in urine (ALA), malondialdehyde (MDA) in seminal plasma and sperm analysis were performed. No differences were noted in the concentration of cadmium and zinc in blood and seminal plasma in the study population. Lipid peroxidation in seminal plasma, represented as MDA concentration, significantly increased by about 56% in the HE group and the percentage of motile sperm cells after 1 h decreased by about 34% in comparison to the control group. No statistically significant correlation between other parameters of sperm analysis and lead exposure parameters nor between lead, cadmium and zinc concentration in blood and seminal plasma were found. A positive association between lead intoxication parameters (PbB, ZPP, lead seminal plasma) and MDA concentration in sperm plasma and inverse correlation with sperm cells motility (PbB, ZPP) was found. An increased concentration of MDA was accompanied by a drop in sperm cells motility. In conclusion, we report that high exposure to lead causes a decrease of sperm motility in men most likely as a result of increased lipid peroxidation, especially if the level in the blood surpasses the concentration of 40 microg/dl.

• Influence of fluoride on rat kidney antioxidant system: effects of methionine and vitamin E.

  Authors: Iwona Błaszczyk, Ewa Grucka-Mamczar, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Ewa Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 02/2008; 121(1):51-9.

  The aim of the study has been to determine and compare the influence upon the kidney antioxidative system, exercised by administration of vitamin E, and vitamin E in combination with methionine,The aim of the study has been to determine and compare the influence upon the kidney antioxidative system, exercised by administration of vitamin E, and vitamin E in combination with methionine, under conditions of oxidative stress induced by sodium fluoride. The experiment was carried out on Wistar FL rats (adult males) that, for 35 days, were administered water, NaF, NaF with vitamin E, or vitamin E with methionine (doses: 10 mg NaF/kg of body mass/24 h, 3 mg vitamin E per 10 microl per rat for 24 h, 2 mg methionine per rat for 24 h). The influence of administered sodium fluoride and antioxidants upon the antioxidative system in kidney was examined by analyzing the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of the most important antioxidative enzymes (SOD, total and both its isoenzymes, GPX, GST, GR, and CAT). The studies carried out confirmed the disadvantageous effect of the administered dose of NaF upon the antixodiative system in rats (increase in the concentration MDA, decrease activity of all antioxidative enzymes). The administration of vitamin E increased the activity of studied enzymes with the exception of glutathione reductase GR; it also reduced the processes of lipid peroxidation. It has been found that combined doses of vitamin E and methionine were most effective in inhibiting lipid peroxidation processes. The results confirmed the antioxidative properties of methionine.

• Oxidant and anti-oxidant systems of synovial fluid from patients with knee post-traumatic arthritis.

  Authors: Alina Ostałowska, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Aleksandra Kasperczyk, Ludmiła Słowińska, Marek Marzec, Tomasz Stołtny, Bogdan Koczy, Ewa Birkner

  Journal of orthopaedic research : official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society. 07/2007; 25(6):804-12.

  It has been suggested that patients with knee post-traumatic arthritis (PA), associated or not to haemarthrosis (HA), display altered oxidant and anti-oxidant systems in their synovial fluid. ThisIt has been suggested that patients with knee post-traumatic arthritis (PA), associated or not to haemarthrosis (HA), display altered oxidant and anti-oxidant systems in their synovial fluid. This study aimed to establish whether this is really the case. Synovial fluid samples were obtained by transdermal arthrocentesis from 69 patients with PA (36 of them had HA) and 22 control subjects. The activities of synovial fluid zinc-copper superoxide dismutase (ZnCuSOD) and manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) isoenzymes, catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) enzymes, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and synovial fluid viscosity were measured in the study groups. Patients with PA had significantly increased activities of all antioxidant enzymes, except CAT, and MDA concentration than did the controls. However, synovial fluid viscosity was found to be decreased in the study group, mainly in the HA subgroup. Results suggest that excessive free radicals production may exist in synovial fluid of PA patients and may contribute to knee joint destruction.

• Markers of antioxidant defence system and lipid peroxidation in peripheral blood of female patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria.

  Authors: Alicja Kasperska-Zajac, Zenon Brzoza, Renata Polaniak, Barbara Rogala, Ewa Birkner

  Archives of dermatological research. 04/2007; 298(10):499-503.

  Oxidative stress is an important event in lesional skin of patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). In the present study, we assessed blood oxidant/antioxidant status of patients sufferingOxidative stress is an important event in lesional skin of patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). In the present study, we assessed blood oxidant/antioxidant status of patients suffering from CIU with positive response to autologous serum skin test (ASST) and with negative ASST, to improve our understanding of biological processes and the part of oxidative stress in this disease. Activities of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/ZnSOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and catalase (CAT) as indices of enzymatic antioxidant capacity, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) level as a maker of lipid peroxidation were measured in plasma and erythrocytes from 14 CIU female patients showing positive ASST, 31 CIU female patients with negative ASST and in 19 sex- and age-matched healthy subjects. The antioxidant enzyme activity in plasma and in erythrocytes did not differ significantly among the three groups. Also, the plasma and erythrocytes MDA levels were similar in the three groups. Based on our results, it seems that systemic activity of the enzymatic antioxidants (CuZn/SOD, MnSOD, GSH-Px, and CAT) as well as level of lipid peroxidation determined by MDA may not be increased in the course of immune-inflammatory processes associated with CIU. We also suggest that the systemic oxidant/antioxidant status of CIU patients, showing positive response to ASST, may not be different from that of CIU patients with negative ASST.

• The influence of methionine, selenomethionine, and vitamin E on liver metabolic pathways and steatosis in high-cholesterol fed rabbits.

  Authors: Ewa Birkner, Jolanta Zalejska-Fiolka, Aleksandra Kasperczyk, Sławomir Kasperczyk, Ewa Grucka-Mamczar, Barbara Stawiarska-Pieta, Katarzyna Birkner

  Biological trace element research. 02/2007; 120(1-3):179-94.

  Significant disorders of liver metabolic pathways enzymes after high-cholesterol diet could give information on liver steatosis development. This process could probably also be inhibited by someSignificant disorders of liver metabolic pathways enzymes after high-cholesterol diet could give information on liver steatosis development. This process could probably also be inhibited by some compounds, as examined in rabbits. Forty-two male rabbits were served a high-cholesterol diet (2 g%) (0.67 g/kg b.m./24 h) with addition of d,l-methionine (70 mg/kg b.m./24 h) or seleno-d,l-methionine (12.5 microg/kg b.m./24 h) or alpha-tocopherol (10 mg/kg b.m./24 h) for 3 months to compare the protection effect of used compounds on liver metabolism and steatosis. At the beginning and every month, blood was taken. After the experiment was completed, livers were dissected for histological examinations. The concentration of total cholesterol (t-CH), triacylglycerol (TG), and the activities of aldolase (ALD), sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were determined. Plasma t-CH and TG concentrations were significantly higher in all experimental groups vs control group. Blood serum AST and ALT activities did not undergo change but there were observed not significant increase in the CH group vs control group. Activities of SDH, GLDH, and LDH increased in blood serum and decreased in the liver in all experimental groups. Activities of LDH and SDH increased in the liver in the CH+Met group vs CH group. ALD activity decreased in the liver only in the CH and CH+Se groups. This data support a lipotoxic model of cholesterol-mediated hepatic steatosis. Prolonged administration of high-cholesterol diet not only disturbs the structure of cell membranes, which is expressed by decreased activity of enzymes in the liver and the migration of those enzymes to plasma but as well leads to steatosis of the liver, which has been confirmed by histological examinations. The applied compounds appear to have a varying influence upon the activity of enzymes determined in serum and liver. Obtained results showed a beneficial influence of methionine and vitamin E supplementation on liver steatosis development.