Modulation of free radical stress in human red blood cell membrane by forskolin and the prospects for treatment of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

This study has examined the effect of oxidants and elevated levels of glucose on membrane lipid peroxidation of human red blood calls (RBC). Washed RBC incubated with varying concentrations of glucose at 37 degrees C for 24 hrs. showed a significant increased membrane lipid peroxidation when compared with control RBC. Addition of ferrous sulphate and ascorbic acid which are known oxidants caused greater rise in lipid peroxides compared to elevated level of glucose alone. Pre-treatment of RBC with varying doses of forskolin (4-70 microg) was associated with significantly smaller rise in lipid peroxides in a dose dependent manner. Forskolin effect was comparable with the antioxidant effect of other drugs such as vitamin E, trimetazidine, ginkocer, probucol. It is possible that forskolin at higher concentrations may have a greater antioxidant effect than other antioxidant drug. However more studies, especially animal experiments, and trials in human would be necessary to confirm our findings.