Bacterial vaginosis and biomarkers of oxidative stress in amniotic fluid

Abstract

Objective: In this study we tried to determine if the activities of the primary antioxidant enzymes are detectable in amniotic fluid and if they can be used as early biomarkers of complications in pregnancy connected with bacterial vaginosis. Methods: This was a prospective study in which amniotic fluid was taken between 16 and 19 weeks of gestation. 161 pregnant women were divided into two groups: study group—patients with the treated local infection and control group—healthy pregnant women. Levels of reduced glutathione, and the activities of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transpherase, xanthine oxidase, superoxide dismutase and lipid peroxidation were determined spectrophotometrically in amniotic fluid samples. Results: Concentration of malonyldialdehide (product of lipid peroxidation) varied greatly between investigated groups. Xanthine oxidase and superoxide dismutase activities, though very low, were present in amniotic fluid samples. Also, enzymes of glutathione cycle and reduced glutathione concentrations were detectable and showed certain variations. Conclusion: Although, biomarkers of antioxidant activity are present in the amniotic fluid, they are not differrent between women with and without bacterial vaginosis.

Keywords::

• Bacterial vaginosis
• oxidative stress
• preterm delivery
• amniotic fluid
• antioxidant enzymes

Declaration of Interest: The work was supported by the grant of Ministry of Science and Technological Development, Republic of Serbia (grant number 172058).

Notice of correction:

This paper published online on 30th January 2012 contained an error in the title. The error has been corrected in this version of the paper. The authors and publisher would like to apologize for any inconvenience caused.