Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Prolidase is a member of the matrix metalloproteinase family. It plays a major role in collagen turnover, matrix remodeling and cell growth. Nitric oxide (NO) regulates many processes such as collagen synthesis and matrix remodeling. Thus, NO may augment angiogenesis, tumor invasion, and metastasis. The aim of this study was to investigate total antioxidant status (TAS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and NO levels in patients with bladder cancer and to determine their relationship with prolidase activity. DESIGN AND METHODS: Thirty-five patients with bladder cancer and 32 controls were enrolled. Serum TAS, MDA, prolidase activity and NO levels were determined. RESULTS: Serum prolidase activity, NO levels and MDA levels were significantly higher in bladder cancer than controls (all, P < 0.05), while TAS levels were significantly lower (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that increased prolidase seems to be associated with increased NO levels and oxidative stress along with decreased antioxidant levels in bladder cancer.