The role of antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase in the etiopathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease

Background & Objectives: Chronic alcohol consumption has long been associated with progressive liver disease from steatosis to inflammation, development of hepatic cirrhosis, and the subsequent increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. The present study focusses on alcohol induced oxidative stress associated with imbalance between oxidants and anti-oxidant defense system leading to molecular damage. Materials & Methods: In this case-control study, clinically diagnosed patients of Alcoholic liver disease (n=50) and age matched healthy controls (n=50) were enrolled.The levels of AST, ALT, AST/ALT ratio, ALP, serum protein, Malondialdehyde, Superoxide dismutase and Glutathione Peroxidase were estimated in both the groups and compared using Independent student’s t-test. Results: The levels of AST, ALT, AST/ALT ratio, ALP, Malondialdehyde, Superoxide dismutase, Glutathione Peroxidase were significantly higher in cases as compared to controls whereas the levels of serum total proteins were significantly lower in cases as compared to controls. Interpretation & Conclusion: The study suggests that oxidative stress may be one of the contributing factor in the pathogenesis of ALD as indicated by increase in level of oxidants and decrease in level of antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, antioxidant supplement should be a part of the management of ALD as it would help in lowering the oxidative stress and the resulting peroxidation.