Effect of ethephon on oxidative stress in Kunming mice

The effect of ethephon on oxidative stress in mice was investigated. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and the contents of maleic dialdehyde(MDA) in blood and spleen were determined. The results showed that the SOD and GSH-Px activity was significantly lower than those in the control group (PP P<0.01), which increased 12.08% and 28.43%, respectively, at 134 and 268 mg/kg bw dose levels in the blood; and increased 11.64%, 27.85%, respectively,at 268 and 536 mg/kg bw dose levels in the spleen. The results suggested that ethephon might injure the balance of oxidization and antioxidation system, and cause oxidative stress in mice.