Impact of acute inflammation on Band 3 protein anion exchange capability in human erythrocytes.

The impact of acute inflammation, revealed by C-reactive protein (CRP) plasma levels, has been studied on the erythrocytes anion exchanger Band 3 protein. Anion exchange capability through Band 3 protein, lipid peroxidation, -SH membrane groups and intracellular GSH levels have been measured on erythrocytes from patients with CRP >8mg/L. Under acute inflammation, a significant increase in anion exchange capability, increased lipid peroxidation, decreased-SH groups and GSH content were observed. Serum CRP levels recovery (after one week) was associated to -SH groups and GSH recovery, but not to anion exchange capability restoration. After 2months, a total recovery of all parameters was observed. Band 3 protein anion exchange capability is affected by acute inflammation; the accelerated rate of anion exchange may be mainly due to lipid peroxidation, rather than to -SH groups oxidation; erythrocytes renewal could be needed to have a total recover of their function.