Changes in glutathione and its associated enzymes during carrageenan-induced acute inflammation in mice

Abstract

Six-day-old air pouch of mice was used as a bioassay model for the studies of changes in the glutathione levels during carrageenan-induced acute inflammation. The exudate fluid and exudate leucocytes were both assayed for the presence of reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as oxidized glutathione (GSSG). The activities of glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were also determined. Results obtained were compared to saline-injected controls. The amount of GSH and leucocytes present in the inflammatory air pouches were significantly increased. The activity of GR but not the GPx, was also enhanced. The presence of elevated levels of GSSG implies a possible antioxidant role for GSH during inflammation.