The Biotransformation and Oxidative Stress Status (BOSS) research group is interested in research about the capabilities of the human liver to successfully detoxify all toxins the human body is exposed to. The research focus of the groups has been on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (a complex physical illness characterized by debilitating fatigue, post-exertional malaise, pain, cognitive problems, sleep dysfunction and an array of other immune, neurological and autonomic symptoms), but has more recently shifted to biotransformation imbalances and the connection with certain cancer types.
- Research objectives and technologies used
The BOSS research group at the NWU has been involved in the development of a metabolomics approach for the analysis of biotransformation biomarkers. In this approach, targeted analysis of specific biomarkers for biotransformation is used to determine whether abnormalities in these metabolic pathways occur, what the magnitude of these abnormalities are, whether this is associated with an increased risk to develop a certain disease (e.g. cancer), and if treatment in the specific case is viable. In collaboration with our colleagues from the molecular biology lab, we also investigate these abnormalities on a molecular level, by identifying any genetic modifications that may be causing these changes. The instrumentation which is used includes gas chromatography, high resolution liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, triple quadrupole mass spectrometry and UV detection. Method developing and targeted analysis of individual biomarkers research is done on the golden standard high resolution chromatography separation on an Agilent 1290 liquid chromatograph and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) analysis on an Agilent 6460 or 6470 Jet Stream tandem mass spectrometers.
- Current research activities/developments
Service Delivery:
The biotransformation status of clinically referred patients is currently monitored as part of a Biotransformation test package offered by the Centre for Human Metabolomics at the North-West University. The purpose of these tests is to monitor the liver’s reaction to a number of challenge substances. In doing this, Phase I (functionalization) and Phase II (conjugation) reactions response to these challenge substances are tested. At the same time any abnormalities in these reactions and their effects on free radical metabolism are recorded. These tests have now been done on a routine basis from 2008.
Furthermore, we have developed a method for comprehensive profiling of hormones and especially biotransformation products of hormones. An at home sample collection kit for urine collection can now also be requested by the public for analysis. The test gives urinary levels of all three parent estrogens, sulfate and glucuronide estrogens, hydroxyl and methoxyl estrogens, estrogen DNA adducts, and non-estrogen hormones and also an estimation of glutatione conjugation of the metabolites. For more information about tests and pricing, please contact Prof Lardus Erasmus or the laboratory directly:
E-mail: BOSSlab@nwu.ac.za
Tel.nr.: +27 18 299 2042/2342
Current research:
The aim of our current research is to investigate the influence of specific synthetic hormones on the biotransformation pathways and DNA adduct formation. Furthermore, we are investigating the role that estrogen biotransformation and oxidative stress play in the development of breast cancer.
Our research currently focuses on the following topics:
- Biotransformation Profiles and Oxidative Stress in Patients suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Biotransformation Profiles and Oxidative Stress in Premenopausal Women using Combined Oral Contraceptives
- The Exposome and Telomere length
- Polymorphisms associated with Biotransformation Metabolism.
- Estrogen biotransformation and oxidative stress analyses in South African women with breast cancer.