[Role of Zn, Cu--trace elements and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in oxidative stress progression in chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)].

INTRODUCTION

Ions of trace elements, zinc and copper, play a key role in a number of vital signs and metabolic processes occurring in human organism. In venous vessels, Cu and Zn ions contribute to formation of free oxygen radicals (catalysts for Habera-Weisa reaction) and may result in development of changes leading to chronic venous disease (CVD), also known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). These elements lead to changes occurring in cells by contributing to lipid peroxidation process. As enzyme activators, Zn and Cu ions maintain proper cell membranes functioning. In addition, these ions create the catalytic center of one of the most important enzymes of the antioxidant defence system, superoxide dismutase (SOD). THE AIM OF THE PRESENT STUDY: The aim of the present study was determination of copper and zinc ions in sufficient and insufficient vessels lyophilized and varicose veins lyophilized from patients with CVD. Further, a comparison of SOD activity in homogenates of above-mentioned tissues was done.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study material consisted of tissues lyophilized and homogenates. This material contained: - Insufficient vessels originating from area of saphenous vein ostium (VSM, vena saphe magna), where venous insufficiency with massive venous reflux was observed during ultrasonography (USG); - Sufficient vessels which fulfilled criteria of sufficient vessels during USG examination; - Varicose veins. The study group consisted of 31 patients (23 females and 8 males) and the average age was 49.9 +/- 12.5. These patients were diagnosed with the 2nd and 3rd degree of CVD according to CEAP and they underwent surgery at II Department of General Surgery UJ CM, Poland (November, 2007-March 2008). Concentration of trace elements was determined by Proton Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) method. Activity of superoxide dismutase was determined according to method reported by Spitz and Oberley.

RESULTS

Concentration of Zn and Cu ions was significantly higher in varicose veins in the area of insufficient valves compared to sufficient vessels. Activity of superoxide dismutase both in homogenates of varicose veins and insufficient veins was significantly higher than in homogenates of sufficient veins.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical changes occurring during CVD were linearly dependant on SOD activity and concentration of Zn and Cu ions, which suggested the participation of free radicals in CVD