Effect of high concentrations of folic acid in mineral metabolism and oxidative stress

Abstract

Folic acid (FA) has been prescribed in Brazil, at a concentration of 5 mg / day for patients with hemolytic anemias, for women who wish to become pregnant and also for women with a history of fetuses with defects of the neural tube (DFTNs). Furthermore, FA is also derived from the diet, including fortified foods. The possible consequences of high concentrations of FA in the metabolism of copper, zinc and selenium are not known, as well as whether or not FA interferes with oxidative stress of these individuals, also considering food consumption. Thus, the purpose of post-doctoral project is to assess the effect of FA on individuals who use 5 mg / day or more of FA as therapy in the metabolism of copper, zinc and selenium, analyzing the possible association with markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in two group in a case control study: 1- women with a history of recurrent miscarriage and not pregnant that used therapeutic doses of FA 2- nonpregnant , healthy women who do not use therapeutic doses of FA and paired with the aforementioned group (age , body mass index and declared skin color). It will also be assessed the effect of FA in a prospective study in which 30 healthy subjects ( 15 men and 15 women aged 20-35 years) will undergo daily intake of 5 mg of FA . In this study blood sample will be collected before the intervention and after every 30 days to a maximum period of six months. For this project, 50 mL of blood will be collected after fasting for 8 hours to determine the concentrations of : folate ( serum , whole blood and not metabolized ), ultrasensitive C-reactive protein , lactate dehydrogenase , holotranscobalamin , total homocysteine , copper, zinc , selenium and markers of oxidative stress. Food intake will be assessed by three 24-hour dietary recall and by food frequency questionnaire; data will be subsequently measured at NDSR program. (AU)