Serum prolidase activity and oxidative status in Helicobacter pylori infection

Objectives: During the course of Helicobacter pylori infection, increased oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of gastroduodenal mucosal inflammation, which can cause gastric mucosal atrophy that characterized by the replacement of the gastric mucosal glands by collagen fibers. In the present study, we aimed to determine serum prolidase activity and oxidative status, and to find out if there is any association between serum prolidase activity and oxidative status in H. pylori infection. Design and methods: Forty H. pylori-positive and 32 H. pylori-negative subjects were enrolled. Serum prolidase activity was measured spectrophotometrically. Oxidative status was determined using total antioxidant capacity and total oxidant status measurement and calculation of oxidative stress index. Results: Total antioxidant capacity level was lower in H. pylori-positive group than H. pylori-negative group (p < 0.001), whereas total oxidant status, oxidative stress index and prolidase activity were higher (all p < 0.05). Significant correlation was observed between serum prolidase activity, and total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant status and oxidative stress index (p < 0.01, r=-0.367; p=0.05, r=0.283; p < 0.01, r=0.379; respectively) in H. pylori-positive subjects. Conclusion: H. pylori infection may be associated with increased oxidative stress and increased serum prolidase activity. Increased oxidative stress seems to be associated with increased serum prolidase activity and this association may help to provide a better understanding about the pathogenesis of H. pylori infection. (c) 2006 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. All rights reserved.