Evaluation of Serum Level of Catalase Enzyme Activity in Patients with Beta-Thalassemia

Abstract

Beta-thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder associated with chronic anemia and oxidative stress due to frequent blood transfusions and iron overload. Although oxidative stress is known to contribute to disease complications, limited studies have evaluated specific antioxidant enzyme levels in thalassemia patients. This study aimed to assess the serum activity of catalase (CAT), a key antioxidant enzyme, in beta-thalassemia patients compared to healthy controls. Blood samples were collected from 25 beta-thalassemia patients and 25 age-matched healthy individuals. CAT activity was measured using a colorimetric assay based on hydrogen peroxide degradation. The results revealed a significant decrease in CAT activity in thalassemia patients (8.46 U/ml) compared to the control group (24.64 U/ml), indicating impaired antioxidant defense. These findings suggest that reduced catalase activity may serve as a useful biochemical marker for monitoring oxidative stress and managing complications in beta-thalassemia, with implications for antioxidant-based therapeutic interventions.