Objective: To assess the effects of topical sesame oil on systemic oxidative stress in rats.
Design: Oxidative stress was induced with lipopolysaccharide and assessed by determining serum lipid peroxidation, superoxide anion, and hydroxyl radical levels. The levels of 3 circulating antioxidants--superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione--also were determined.
Results: Topical sesame oil significantly reduced lipid peroxidation, superoxide anion, and hydroxyl radical levels after lipopolysaccharide administration. However, sesame oil did not affect the 3 circulating antioxidants. Further, sesame oil decreased the activity of xanthine oxidase and nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-treated rats.
Conclusion: Sesame oil given topically might attenuate oxidative stress by inhibiting the production of xanthine oxidase and nitric oxide in rats.