Oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency

Abstract

Cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency (CBSD) is the most prevalent inherited disorder of homocysteine metabolism in the transsulphuration pathway. Research have suggested oxidative stress and inflammation as candidate pathogenic mechanisms in CBSD. This study aims to evaluate mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress biomarkers in cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency (CBSD) patients, which may aid in understanding the pathogenesis of CBSD and improving treatment. The study group comprised 23 patients with a diagnosis of CBSD and healthy controls. We analysed serum levels of NAD⁺ and NADH by fluorometric assay, FGF-21 and GDF-15 by ELISA, mitochondrial DAMPs by real time qRT-PCR, total homocysteine levels in plasma by enzymatic test and compared the results in CBSD group with healthy controls. In patient group, a positive correlation was found between the total homocysteine level and both GDF-15 and NAD⁺/NADH levels. Furthermore, there was a negative correlation between total homocysteine levels and both total NAD⁺+NADH and NADH levels. The alterations in NAD⁺, FGF-21, GDF-15 levels, and NAD⁺/NADH ratio in patients suggest that oxidative damage coexists with mitochondrial dysfunction in CBSD. Assessment of oxidative damage and addition of anti-oxidant therapy together with mitochondrial support may have additional benefits in reducing long-term morbidity in CBSD patients.

Keywords: Cystathionine beta synthase deficiency; Fibroblast growth factor 21; Growth differentiation factor 15; Mitochondria; Oxidative stress.