Analytical aspects of protein carbonyl group in oxidized canine serum.

Abstract

Oxidative stress (OS) is an imbalance between oxidants and anti-oxidants and plays an important role
in the aetiology and/or the progression of several diseases. Protein carbonyl (PCO) groups are so far
used as biomarkers of OS in humans (Colombo et al, 2015).
The aim of our study was to investigate whether PCOs are present in canine serum and if they can be
measured spectrophotometrically using a method not yet validated in dogs.
The presence of PCO was investigated by Western blotting after separation by SDS-PAGE of serum at
different dilutions (either before or after oxidation with 10% cigarette smoke extract). Protein labelling
with 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH, Brady's reagent) was followed by a two-steps incubation with
primary anti-dinitrophenyl-KLH antibodies (rabbit IgG fraction) and secondary goat anti-rabbit IgG, HRP
conjugate. Signal was developed with Enhanced Chemiolumionescence (ECL).
Serum PCO were quantified using a commercially available assay (Protein Carbonyl Content Assay Kit -
Abcam, UK), based on derivatization of proteins with 1,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) and
subsequent formation of protein-conjugated dinitrophenylhydrazones (DNPs) with a peak absorbance
at 366 nm.
Western blot showed an evident band of apparent MW of 69 kDa, consistent with carbonylated dog
serum albumin. The spectrophotometric assay failed to demonstrate any signal at 366 nm using the
manufacturer’s instructions or modified protocols.
This study demonstrated that PCO are present in oxidized canine serum. However, the
spectrophotometric assay employed in this study is not enough sensitive to detect PCOs. Further
studies are needed to assess whether this depends on the poor re-solubilisation of DNPs, or on the low
concentration of PCOs in dogs.