Evaluation of Antioxidant Parameters in Rats Treated with Sevoflurane

Summary Background and objectives Sevoflurane is a halogenated fluorinated ether that undergoes hepatic biotransformation through cytochrome P4502E1. Halogenated ethers undergoing biotransformation by P4502E1 can produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), weakening the antioxidant defense mechanism. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between the activity of erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes and sevoflurane. Methods Animals were divided in four groups: Group 1 – control: 100% oxygen (1 L.min -1 for 60 min during five consecutive days); Group 2 – 4.0% sevoflurane in 100% oxygen (1 L.min -1 for 60 minutes during five consecutive days); Group 3 – isoniazid (i.p.), 50 mg.kg -1 /day for four consecutive days, followed by 100% oxygen (1 L.min -1 for 60 minutes during four consecutive days); Group 4 – intraperitoneal isoniazid, 50 mg.kg -1 daily for four days, followed by 4.0% sevoflurane in 100% oxygen (1 L.min -1 for 60 minutes during five days). Twelve hours after the last exposure to sevoflurane, animals were sacrificed and their blood was collected through the portal vein for analysis of antioxidant enzymes. Results An increase in the activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and a decrease in the activity of catalase were observed, especially in the group of animals pre-treated with isoniazid. Changes in the activity of glutathione peroxidase were not observed. Conclusions The interaction between sevoflurane and cytochrome P450 2E1 with enzymatic inducers can lead to oxidative stress with prolonged and repetitive exposure.