Effect of Aluminium on Superoxide Dismutase

1. The effect of Al³⁺ on superoxide dismutase in vitro was studied, since in uraemia there is excessive superoxide production and frequently an elevated serum Al³⁺ level. Thus, the protective role of superoxide dismutase is particularly important.

2. Al³⁺ in concentrations similar to those found in the serum of uraemic patients inhibits superoxide dismutase activity. The degree of inhibition is directly proportional to the Al³⁺ level.

3. The combination of excessive oxygen free radical production with an increased Al³⁺ level may contribute to a variety of complications, including aluminium dementia or initiation and promotion of carcinogenic processes, which are known to be more common in uraemic patients.