Nitric oxide and trace metals in relation to haemoglobin F concentration in Nigerian sickle cell disease patients

Abstract

Aim: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited haemoglobin (Hb) disorder associated with vaso-occlusive events, oxidative stress, high energy demand, and endothelial dysfunction. The endothelium plays a central role in the regulation of vascular homeostasis by releasing nitric oxide (NO) among other factors. Therefore, the objective of this study was to measure plasma levels of NO, trace metals, and HbF in SCD patients. Materials and methods: Plasma levels of NO, Zn, Mg, Mn, Se, Cu, Fe, Haemoglobin F (HbF) were measured in 59 steady state SCD patients referred to the Department of Haematology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria and 35 age/sex matched controls using Griess reagents and spectrophotometry. Results: Mean levels of HbF, NO, and Zn were significantly elevated while the levels of Fe, Cr, and Se were significantly reduced in SCD patients compared with the controls. In SCD patients, HbF showed significant negative correlations with Fe, Mn, Cr, and Se. Also in SCD patients, HbF showed significant positive correlation with NO. Conclusion: Nutritional supplements that will increase certain essential trace metals but will reduce NO and oxidants may be tested in the management of SCD patients. © Tübi̇tak.