Glutathione S-Transferases (GST) are considered one of the most important enzymes in the Phase II detoxification
process. GST enzymes aid in the breakdown of several xenobiotics and can catalyze a variety of reactions
such as the conjugation of reduced glutathione to toxic electrophilic compounds [9].
Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) enzymes are a class of important antioxidant enzymes that catalyze the dismutation
of superoxide into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide, thus protecting the cell from oxidative damage. SOD
decreases Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation and lowers oxidative stress [10].
Catalase (CAT) catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, a potent reactive oxygen species, into water
and oxygen. It is equally as important and is present in all organisms. Just a single molecule of CAT can decompose
millions of hydrogen peroxide molecules every second [11].
Walnuts and peanuts have been known to have several beneficial health protectants; from their high doses of
the “good” fat, monounsaturated fat, to many minerals and other bioactive compounds. The medicinal benefits
of these nuts are constantly being discovered. They have been known to aid in the prevention of heart disease [2],
reduce risk of diabetes [12], and reduce the rate of inflammation [1]. There are several beneficial health properties
of walnuts and peanuts due to the phytochemicals, as well as important dietary fat and fiber. However, some
more studies show that the important nutrients found in nuts are consumed inadequately in the average American
diet [1].
The aim of this study was to determine the chemopreventive potential of walnuts and peanuts (5% and 10%)
on AOM induced Aberrant Crypt Foci (ACF) and to determine their effect on selected detoxification and antioxidant
enzymes.