The antioxidative effect of the bacteria Dienococcus radiophilus against LDL lipid peroxidation

Lipid peroxidation is an important process in the development of atherosclerosis. Thus agents with antioxidant properties may play an important role in the inhibition of atherosclerosis. In this study we aimed to show that the lipid extract of the bacteria Deinococcus radiophilus (leDR) has antioxidant properties against LDL oxidation. This antioxidant effect was shown in both transition metal ion and free radical generating systems. We also showed that leDR can protect LDL from UV light-induced oxidative damage. The antioxidative capacity of leDR is partly due to copper ion chelation. We conclude that some specific bacteria constituent has the ability to inhibit LDL oxidation and, thus, to attenuate atherogenesis.