The Redox Status in Paraneoplastic Disorders and the Impact of Antioxidant Therapy

Abstract

This paraneoplastic alterations of the redox-status in cancer-bearing laboratory mice and effects of α-tocopherol as a potential treatment strategy have been studied in cancer-bearing mice with the use of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR). Results of investigation indicate a disruption of iron metabolism, with an accumulation of harmful Fe²⁺ species and oxidative stress markers, such as Met-Hb and Mn²⁺. The detection of NO and its derivatives indicate ongoing lipid peroxidation and cellular damage, further exacerbated by altered antioxidant enzyme function. Treatment with α-tocopherol provided considerable restoration of redox balance, offering potential therapeutic benefits in reducing oxidative stress during malignancy. The study showed that α-tocopherol increases antioxidant system activity, enhances electron transport at the NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase locus, improves mitochondrial respiration, decreases lipid peroxidation and stabilizes membrane structures. Conclusion: The findings suggest that α-tocopherol could serve as a potential therapeutic agent to diminish oxidative damage, restore redox balance, and improve microhemocirculation. Further research is needed to explore the implications of these findings for the management of paraneoplastic syndromes and the overall treatment of cancer.