Effects of a Low Molecular Weight Superoxide Dismutase Mimic, 4-hydroxy-tempo on the Lipid Peroxidation in Burned Rats

The purpose of the experiment was to check the prevention from ongoing lipid peroxidation by 4-hydroxytempo (Tempol) treatment in the burned rat. The burn disease rat model was used for the estimation of Tempol ability to scavenge increased amounts of free radicals and prevent spreading of lipid peroxidation process. Four groups of male Wistar rats were used in the experiment. Saline or Tempol were administered to scalded and healthy rats. Malonyldialdehyde and 4-hydroxynonenal levels were estimated in plasma, lungs and kidneys as markers of lipid peroxidation. The total antioxidant plasma capacity was assessed with ferric reducing ability of plasma. Intraperitoneal injection of Tempol decreased the level of lipid peroxidation products in plasma and tissues in scalded animals. The results of this study suggest that membrane-permeable radical scavengers, such as Tempol, exert beneficial effects in experimental burn and may, hence, minimise tissue injury due to free radicals.