Elevated superoxide dismutase in black alcoholics.

Superoxide dismutase concentrations in lysates of erythrocytes from black alcoholics were higher than those of white alcoholics and of nonalcoholics of both races. Higher concentrations of enzyme protein, as determined by competition radioimmunoassay, correspond to proportionately higher enzyme activity. Elevated superoxide dismutase levels were not related to any other clinical, historical, or demographic variables. Increased superoxide dismutase levels may delay or prevent some of the pathological sequelae of alcoholism and may be a useful biological marker for alcohol abuse.