Determining the presence of an oxidative stress marker such as glutathione, cysteine, and/or a derivative of a reactive oxidative metabolite
Inventors
Dudley, Jr., Samuel C. • Jones, Dean P.
Assignees
Emory University • US Department of Veterans Affairs
Publication Number
US-7550299-B2
Publication Date
2009-06-23
Expiration Date
2027-08-03
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Abstract
A method for predicting onset or risk of atrial fibrillation in a subject includes determining the presence of an oxidative stress marker, such as glutathione, cysteine, and/or a derivative of a reactive oxidative metabolite (DROM).
Core Innovation
The invention provides a method for predicting the onset or risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in a subject by determining the presence of an oxidative stress marker such as glutathione, cysteine, and/or a derivative of a reactive oxidative metabolite (DROM). This method also includes determining an elevated blood level of oxidative stress markers and recommending antioxidant therapy if the levels exceed predetermined normal values.
The problem being solved is that atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia with increasing incidence and serious complications, yet its pathogenesis is not fully understood. Although inflammation has been linked, the relative importance of oxidative stress and which markers are most associated with AF remain unclear. This invention addresses the need for improved diagnostic methods to predict AF risk using oxidative stress markers, which have stronger associations with AF than inflammatory markers.
Claims Coverage
The claims include four independent claims focused on methods for predicting atrial fibrillation by detecting oxidative stress markers and for treating subjects suspected of having atrial fibrillation based on these markers. There are five main inventive features identified in these claims.
Method of predicting atrial fibrillation by detecting oxidative stress markers
Determining the presence of an oxidative stress marker in a biological sample from a subject, where the presence of this marker predicts onset or risk of atrial fibrillation.
Use of abnormal thiol ratios of glutathione and cysteine as markers
Identifying abnormal thiol ratios representing higher than predetermined oxidized state values for glutathione, cysteine, or their combination to indicate oxidative stress associated with atrial fibrillation risk.
Use of oxidative state of derivatives of reactive oxidative metabolites (DROMs) as markers
Assessing abnormal oxidized states of DROMs, specifically higher than predetermined normal oxidized state values measured in Carr units, as indicators of oxidative stress predicting atrial fibrillation risk.
Method for treating subjects suspected of atrial fibrillation based on oxidative stress markers
A method involving determining elevated blood levels of oxidative stress markers, comparing to normal values, deciding onset or risk of atrial fibrillation, and recommending antioxidant therapy if risk is indicated.
Biological sample specified as human blood
The biological sample used for detecting oxidative stress markers in the prediction and treatment methods comprises human blood.
The claims collectively cover methods of predicting and treating atrial fibrillation by detecting specific oxidative stress markers including thiol ratios of glutathione and cysteine, and derivatives of reactive oxidative metabolites in human blood, with treatment involving antioxidant therapy guided by marker levels.
Stated Advantages
Oxidative stress markers have a stronger association with atrial fibrillation than inflammatory markers.
Detection of oxidative stress markers can predict onset or risk of atrial fibrillation in subjects.
Use of statins, known antioxidants, is associated with reduced oxidative stress and lower incidence of atrial fibrillation.
The method allows guidance of appropriate antioxidant therapy for treatment or prevention of atrial fibrillation.
Documented Applications
Medical diagnostic methods for predicting onset or risk of atrial fibrillation in subjects.
Therapeutic methods for treating subjects suspected of atrial fibrillation by recommending antioxidant therapy based on oxidative stress marker levels.
Scientific research applications involving evaluation of oxidative stress in relation to atrial fibrillation pathogenesis and associated risk factors.
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