Evaluation of oxidative stress activity and the levels of homocysteine, vitamin B12, and DNA methylation among women with breast cancer

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to identify the relationship between oxidative stress, vitamin B12, Homocysteine, and DNA methylation to evaluate their role in the progression of B.C. disease. Methodology: The 5mC global DNA methylation levels in 60 women diagnosed with breast cancer (age range 33–80 yrs.) and 30 age-matched healthy controls were assessed using Methyl Flash™ Methylated DNA Quantification Kit. Patients with B.C. were divided into two groups: group 1 consisted of stage II breast cancer women (Low level), and Group 2 consisted of patients in stage III and IV (High level). Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione peroxidase (GPX), Homocysteine (HCY) and Vitamin B12 levels in the studied subjects were detected by measuring using ELISA. Results: The results showed a significant increase of HCY and MDA in breast cancer patients compared to healthy control, with apparent increases in patients with breast cancer in an advanced stage. They were accompanied by significantly reduced levels of 5mC with a positive correlation between 5mC and different stages of B.C. Also, the results showed that patients in advanced settings and those with a poor prognosis were exposed to low levels of Vit. B12 and GPX (except the patient in stage IV showed increased GPX level). Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings suggest an involvement of Glutathione peroxidase and Homocysteine in the progression of breast cancer, with the potential of utilizing the differences in the levels of global DNA methylation at the different stages as a risk factor for developing the breast cancer.