The changes of antioxidative enzyme activities in equine erythrocytes following exercise.

This research study explores the changes in the activities of certain antioxidant enzymes in horse red blood cells related to exercise, and scrutinizes if these changes can be influenced by administering a compound containing selenium and vitamin E.

Objective and Methodology

• The study aimed to examine the impact of exercise on the activities of three major antioxidant enzymes – superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHpx), and catalase – in equine erythrocytes (horse red blood cells).
• To gather data, blood samples were taken from eleven thoroughbred horses both prior to and after vigorous exercise.
• Special attention was paid to any variations in plasma lipid peroxide (Lpx) concentration, which increased due to the exercise.

Findings and Conclusion

• The study found that the GSHpx activity in the erythrocytes was significantly reduced post-exercise, while the activities of SOD and catalase remained unaffected.
• The researchers also delved into the potential effects of an antioxidative compound (containing selenium and vitamin E) on these antioxidant enzymes’ responses to exercise.
• Seven other horses were subjected to the same rigorous exercise routine, but also received an intramuscular injection of this selenium-vitamin E compound, referred to as Se-E.
• After the Se-E administration, the plasma Lpx levels before exercising were reduced. However, the activities of the SOD, GSHpx, and catalase enzymes did not change.
• The treatment with Se-E slightly prevented the depletion in GSHpx activity and the increase in plasma Lpx level post-exercise, but it did not affect the activities of SOD and catalase.
• Based on these findings, the authors concluded that changes in GSHpx activity in erythrocytes could indicate whether or not the body is successfully defending against lipid peroxidation caused by exercise.

Implications

• The findings of this research can contribute to a better understanding of the antioxidant mechanisms at play during strenuous physical activity in horses.
• It could further lend insight into the development of potential strategies or treatments to manage the effects of such physical stress on the body’s antioxidative defenses.