NADPH Oxidase–Driven Oxidative Stress and an Interplay of SOD and Vitamin C in Chronic Bronchitis.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive condition characterized by irreversible airflow limitation and an abnormal inflammatory response in the lungs. Extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzyme highly concentrated in lung tissue and lining fluids. COPD progression is believed to be driven by the release of free radicals and redox-sensitive proteases, leading to small airway inflammation, fibrosis, and alveolar wall destruction. EC-SOD plays a critical role in scavenging free radicals and modulating inflammation associated with COPD.

In this study, we investigated the role of EC-SOD in 100 healthy controls and 60 lung disease patients with COPD . Baseline clinical and biochemical parameters were assessed. The results showed a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (p < 0.001) and a significant decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and vitamin E levels (p < 0.001) in COPD patients compared to healthy controls. These findings suggest that reduced antioxidant defenses, particularly lower levels of SOD and vitamin E, contribute to increased oxidative stress, which may play a key role in the pathogenesis and progression of COPD.