The effect of resistin on the redox state of breast cancer cells

Abstract

Purpose: Resistin is an inflammatory cytokine secreted mostly by adipocytes and immune cells that plays a role in the development of insulin resistance, diabetes, and cancer. We hypothesized that resistin's inflammatory activity influences the free radical and oxidative stress pathways.

Methods: We used human breast carcinogenic (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and non-carcinogenic (MCF-10A) cells in this investigation and correlated the absorbed resistin concentration with the change in oxidative stress (TBARS, carbonated proteins) and antioxidant activity (Antioxidant Capacity, SuperOxideDismutase, CATalase, Glutathione Peroxidase).

Results: Resistin was substantially more effective as a prooxidant at lower (12.5 ng/ml) concentrations, than at higher concentrations (25.0 ng/ml). Vitamin C did not appear to be an effective oxidative stress protector at antioxidant concentrations of 5.10^-4 M. Leptin, at 100 ng/ml, did not result in conclusive oxidative stress or antioxidant defence stimulation, as expected.

Conclusion: Taken together, the findings support resistin's role as a non-oxidative stress marker and a metabolic signaling molecule.

Keywords: Antioxidant activity; Breast cancer; Leptin; Oxidative stress; Resistin; Vitamin C.