AbstractThe aim of the present study is to evaluate the status of serum nitric oxide and arginase activity in oral cancerous condition. The study consisted of 80 individuals. The subjects were divided into normal individuals and individuals with oral cancer. Blood sample was collected from each subject and serum separated. Nitric oxide concentration was measured as total nitrates and nitrites by the Griess reaction method and arginase activity was estimated by diacetylmonoxime method.The results of this study showed significantly increased levels of nitric oxide and arginase activity in oral cancerous condition when compared to normal individuals. From the study it can be concluded that during carcinogenesis and tumor progression, the level of nitric oxide and arginase activity increases. This could result from a generalized increased nitric oxide synthesis throughout the body of the cancer patient or reflect increased nitric oxide degradation promoted by oxidative stress.
Role of nitric oxide and antioxidant enzymes in the pathogenesis of oral cancer
