Along
with the afore mentioned estradiol-induced reduction in
peroxide production and mitochondrial DNA damage,
there is an increase in mitochondrial glutathione levels that
is coupled with significant increases in expression of glutathione
peroxidase and manganese superoxide dismutase
RNA and protein [18]. Thus through modulation of antioxidant
enzyme expression and activity, estradiol can prevent
the mitochondrial spiral, by blocking further
increases in reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial
damage.