Lipid Peroxidation in Erythrocyte Membranes of Sheep with Chronic Copper Poisoning.

Abstract

Corriedale ewes were exposed to ration and a pasture containing a high level of copper to study the relationship between peroxidation of lipid membrane and copper-induced hemolysis. We measured phospholipids, cholesterol, and protein from red blood cell (RBC) ghosts, and lipid peroxidation. A decrease in total phospholipids in the erythrocyte membranes and an increase in lipid peroxide levels of erythrocytes was observed in blood samples from animals that ingested large amount of copper. The cholesterol concentration was not altered in RBC. Additionally, depressed phospholipid/protein and phospholipid/ cholesterol ratios were found. These data suggest that elevated copper levels have a deleterious effect on membrane integrity through the peroxidation of lipids. It is reasonable to postulate that these alterations were a possible cause of hemolysis.

The Effect of Copper Overload on the Sheep Erythrocyte Membrane.

“…Elevated levels of Cu probably caused elevated levels of free radicals within erythrocytes, leading to oxidant injury and lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, in previous studies we found a diminished content of phospholipids in erythrocytes high in copper [5]. Changes in lipid composition seen in erythrocyte membranes give conflicting predictions about osmotic fragility [20] .…”

“…properties of the lipid phase of cell membranes [4], and a relationship between Cu-overload and lipid peroxidation has been reported in sheep [5]. Copperinduced lipid peroxidation as a possible cause of the destruction of erythrocytes has been reported in several studies [6,7].…”

“…During the formation of these bonds, free radicals are formed within human erythrocytes [11]. A decrease in total phospholipids in the erythrocyte membranes was observed in blood samples from animals that had ingested large amounts of copper [5]. It has been suggested that peroxidative damage can play an important role in the development of hemolysis [12].…”