Expression of catalase and glutathione peroxidase in renal insufficiency.

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is associated with oxidative stress, the precise mechanism of which is yet to be elucidated. The present study was undertaken to investigate in renal insufficiency the expression of catalase and glutathione peroxidase, which play a critical role in antioxidant defense system by catalyzing detoxification of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and organic hydroperoxides. Rats were randomly assigned to the CRF (5/6 nephrectomized) and sham-operated control groups and observed for 6 weeks.