Liposome-mediated augmentation of brain SOD and catalase inhibits CNS O2 toxicity.

Enzymes specific for O-2 and H2O2 metabolism [superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase] can be delivered to the rat brain following entrapment in liposomes and intravenous injection and will protect against hyperbaric O2-induced convulsions in rats. Liposome-mediated superoxide dismutase and catalase augmentation of brain enzyme activity was 2.7-fold and 1.9-fold, respectively, 15 min after intravenous injection of superoxide dismutase plus catalase-entrapped liposomes. Rats treated with liposomes containing superoxide dismutase plus catalase 2 h before 6 ATA 100% O2 exposure had the time to convulsion extended three times that of controls. This protective effect was dose-dependent and was primarily due to augmentation of catalase activity. These findings show O-2 and H2O2 are important mediators of hyperbaric O2-induced central nervous system toxicity and that liposome-mediated augmentation of brain antioxidant enzymes has a biological effect.