In vitro effects of gentamicin, ampicillin, and cefobid on energy supply and antioxidant protection systems of venous blood erythrocytes in newborns.

We studied the effects of antibiotics of different classes on reserve capacities of the energy supply and antioxidant protection systems in newborns. Erythrocyte catalase activity was high in children with perinatal asphyxia. Penicillin antibiotics, aminoglycosides, and cephalosporins decreased enzyme activity of the glutathione-associated antioxidant system. Ampicillin most significantly inhibited ATP synthesis in erythrocytes under conditions of hypoxia. Gentamicin was least potent in this respect. Impairment of ATP synthesis in erythrocytes was associated with inhibition of antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione reductase. Ampicillin increased glutathione peroxidase activity in response to addition of H2O2. None of the antibiotics modulated activity of cytosolic superoxide dismutase in blood erythrocytes from healthy newborns and newborns with perinatal asphyxia.