Elena Albu 1, Cristina Filip 2, Nina Zamosteanu 2, Irina M. Jaba 1, Nastasia Gheorghita 2, Luminita Jerca 2, O. C. Mungiu 2
1 Department of Pharmacology – Algesiology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iaşi
2 Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iaşi
Abstract
Nowadays it is generally accepted that in the aging processes an important role is played by stress. The main mechanism through which stress is involved in the aging processes seems to be the reactive species’ generation. On the other hand, it is also known that hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor in cardiovascular diseases, as it disturbs the normal endothelium functions and generates thrombosis. The mechanism through which homocysteine triggers these eff ects is not yet clarified, but it is believed that a possible explanation is the reactive species’ involvement. In our work we have studied the influence of experimentally induced stress on homocysteine levels, in rats. Experimental stress was induced by reversing the normal day/night cycle (18oo – 6oo light). Th e activities of intracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were measured in order to establish if stress by itself generates reactive species. Th e plasmatic concentrations of homocysteine were also measured. Our data show an increase in SOD activity, simultaneously with the decrease in GPx activity. The total antioxidant status and homocysteine levels have registered no significant changes. In conclusion, subacute stress activated the antioxidant defense systems, but did not influence the total antioxidant capacity and homocysteine levels, in rats.