The identification of salicylates as normal constituents of serum: a link between diet and health?
OBJECTIVE
To examine sera for the presence of salicylic acid and 2,3- and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acids (2,3- and 2,5-DHBA), in individuals not taking salicylate drugs.


METHODS
Extracts of acidified serum samples were analysed by high performance liquid chromatography with electro-chemical detection. The chromatographic conditions were altered, and the retention times of the unknown compounds compared against authentic salicylic acid, 2,3-DHBA, and 2,5-DHBA. Serum samples (some spiked with salicylic acid) were incubated with salicylate hydroxylase and analyses undertaken. An extract of acidified serum was derivatised using N-methyl-N-trimethylsilyltrifluoroacetamide and the salicylic acid derivative identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.


RESULTS
Salicylic acid, 2,3-DHBA, and 2,5-DHBA were identified as being normal constituents of serum.


CONCLUSIONS
Salicylic acid, 2,3-DHBA, and 2,5-DHBA possess anti-inflammatory properties. The finding that these compounds are present as normal constituents of serum, possibly arising from diet, raises important questions as to their role in the promotion of health.
Paterson
J R
JR
Department of Biochemistry, Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, UK.
Blacklock
C
C
Campbell
G
G
Wiles
D
D
Lawrence
J R
JR
D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; D004032:Diet; D008401:Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; D005841:Gentisates; D006801:Humans; D062385:Hydroxybenzoates / Q000097:blood; D012459:Salicylates / Q000097:blood*; D020156:Salicylic Acid / Q000097:blood
D005841:Gentisates; D062385:Hydroxybenzoates; D012459:Salicylates; C009135:2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid; D020156:Salicylic Acid; C010925:2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid