Assessment of Na+/K+ ATPase and Certain Metal Ions Resulting from the Impact of Deferoxamine in Beta-Thalassemia Patients

Background: Thalassemia is a genetic disease that is autosomal in nature. The condition is marked by an impaired capacity for the synthesis of polypeptides. The presence of chains of normal hemoglobin has been observed to result in the development of anemia. This phenomenon persists as a significant health concern. The Mediterranean region is characterized by a distinct culinary tradition, with a variety of dishes influenced by the region's geographical and historical context. Aim of Study: This study was designed to evaluate the activity of sodium potassium ATPase in the red blood cell membrane of thalassemia patients as well as some metal ions (sodium, potassium, magnesium, total iron) as a result of the effect of deferoxamine treatment. Methods: A total of 130 individuals were involved in this case-control study:70Patients with beta thalassemia aged (1±25years ), 60 healthy controls aged (2±25yaers). The initial group was carefully selected based on the patients' clinical symptoms. Evaluation of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and iron levels was completed by spectrophotometry. Enzyme activity was expressed as micrograms of phosphate concentration per gram of total protein concentration in red blood cells. Results: The average enzyme activity was significantly (P<0.001) higher in beta thalassemia patients (1000 ±248) µg Pi/mg protein. min compared to healthy individuals (481±160) µg Pi/mg protein. min. Also, sodium levels were significantly(P<0.001) higher in thalassemia patients compared to the control group. We also noticed that iron levels were higher compared to the control group, while noting that there was no significant(P<0.05) change in magnesium and potassium levels in patients compared to healthy individuals. Conclusions: Elevated sodium potassium phosphate (ATPase) levels result from changes in the cell membrane and the breakdown of red blood cells, which increases sodium permeability and increases the activity of this enzyme. Elevated sodium levels are often caused by kidney disorders due to iron overload, a condition caused by repeated blood transfusions. The body lacks an effective mechanism for disposing of excess iron, leading to its accumulation in the blood and organs (iron overload). In thalassemia, the body also increases iron absorption from the intestine due to false signals from hemoglobin deficiency, which exacerbates the condition. It was also noted that there was no change in potassium and magnesium levels in thalassemia patients, due to the fact that these elements are not affected by increased iron levels except in very advanced cases of organ failure