| Abstract: | The fructosamine assay measures the degree of nonenzymatic protein glycation by virtue of the reducing properties of such proteins in alkaline conditions. We report the marked inhibitory effect of superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1) on the reducing activity both of protein glycated in vitro and of diabetic sera, indicating superoxide intermediacy in the fructosamine reaction. The free-radical intermediates may be of analytical significance when pathological and physiological changes in serum anti-oxidant activity occur. They may also be of pathological significance in diabetic microangiopathy and protein browning. |
