Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic and an autoimmune disease of the joints and is widely distributed worldwide. It is characterized by alterations of the antioxidant defense system and increased free radical formation and pro-inflammatory cytokine. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of vitamin C supplementation on oxidative stress biomarkers and caspase 9 level in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This study included 30 RA patients and 30 healthy subjects. Plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), caspase 9 and 8-hydroxy-2′deoxyguanosine (8 OHdG) were assayed as well as blood vitamin C level. These parameters were reevaluated in RA patients after vitamin C supplementation for one month. Increased MDA and 8 OHdG levels and reduced TAC, caspase 9 and vitamin C. Levels were demonstrated in RA patients. After vitamin C supplementation, RA patients showed significant increase in TAC and vitamin C level and significant decrease in MDA and 8 OHdG levels, plasma caspase 9 level was not significantly affected after vitamin C supplementation. Increased oxidative stress and decreased apoptosis may have an important role in the pathogenesis of RA. The administration of vitamin C supplementation may help to relieve oxidative stress and enhance the antioxidant defense in these patients.

No abstract

Leptin plays an important role in the pathogenesis of NASH through its metabolic, fibrogenic and angiogenic effects. It may also have a role in the development of complications.