The Effect of Fullerenol C60(OH)36 on the Antioxidant Defense System in Erythrocytes

Abstract

Background: Fullerenols (water-soluble derivatives of fullerenes), such as C60(OH)36, are biocompatible molecules with a high ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), but the mechanism of their antioxidant action and cooperation with endogenous redox machinery remains unrecognized. Fullerenols rapidly distribute through blood cells; therefore, we investigated the effect of C60(OH)36 on the antioxidant defense system in erythrocytes during their prolonged incubation. Methods: Human erythrocytes were treated with fullerenol at concentrations of 50–150 µg/mL, incubated for 3 and 48 h at 37 °C, and then hemolyzed. The level of oxidative stress was determined by examining the level of thiol groups, the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione transferase), and by measuring erythrocyte microviscosity. Results: The level of thiol groups in stored erythrocytes decreased; however, in the presence of higher concentrations of C60(OH)36 (100 and 150 µg/mL), the level of -SH groups increased compared to the control. Extending the incubation to 48 h caused a decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity, but the addition of fullerenol, especially at higher concentrations (100–150 µg/mL), increased its activity. We observed that C60(OH)36 had no effect on the microviscosity of the interior of the erythrocytes. Conclusions: In conclusion, our results indicated that water-soluble C60(OH)36 has antioxidant potential and efficiently supports the enzymatic antioxidant system within the cell. These effects are probably related to the direct interaction of C60(OH)36 with the enzyme that causes its structural changes.

Influence of C60 Nanofilm on the Expression of Selected Markers of Mesenchymal–Epithelial Transition in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

“…The C 60 nanofilm increased the expression of catalase in peroxisomes, in particular in HepG2 cells. Grebowski et al [52] reported similar results: hydroxyfullerene C 60 (OH) 36 at a of 50-150 mg/L increased catalase expression by 24% in human erythrocytes incubated for 3 and 48 h and subjected to oxidative stress. The authors explained that the mechanism of action of the fullerene derivative involves a conformational change of catalase, which protects the -SH groups against ROS-induced oxidation.…”

Mechanochemical Synergism of Reactive Oxygen Species Influences on RBC Membrane

“…Analysis of the influence of ROS must also consider their wide range of influences on biological objects, in particular, the cell membrane. To study oxidative stress, RBCs are often used as a research model [ 34 , 35 ]. Moreover, such analyses must take into account that the most active ROS that influences lipids in RBC membranes is radical [ 36 ].…”

Alleviation of Photoreceptor Degeneration Based on Fullerenols in rd1 Mice by Reversing Mitochondrial Dysfunction via Modulation of Mitochondrial DNA Transcription and Leakage

“…Electron‐deficient carbon─carbon double bonds and hydroxyl groups can quench numerous electrophilic radicals; [ 13 ] this remarkable reaction to free radicals is the most important property of fullerenols. Moreover, they can enhance intrinsic enzymatic activity and regulate intracellular anti‐oxidative substances, [ 14 ] rendering them attractive antioxidants for various applications. Fullerenols produce radiation‐protective effects on mature human erythrocytes, [ 15 ] alleviate radiation‐induced dermatitis during radiotherapy, [ 16 ] mitigate radiation‐induced duodenal damage, [ 17 ] reduce joint destruction, suppress bone resorption, and stimulate osteogenesis in the bone marrow.…”