Magnesium deficiency increases oxidative stress in rats

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nutritional Science
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Magnesium deficiency is linked to atherosclerosis and diabetic complications, conditions associated with oxidative stress.
• Oxidative stress plays a key role in the pathogenesis of various chronic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of magnesium deficiency on oxidative stress markers in rats.
• To correlate magnesium levels with antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation.
• To explore the role of magnesium in free radical-mediated diseases.

Main Methods:

• Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: one fed a low-magnesium diet (70 mg/kg) and a control group fed a standard diet (990 mg/kg) for six weeks.
• Plasma and red blood cell magnesium levels, malondialdehyde (MDA), total radical trapping antioxidant parameter (TRAP), plasma glucose, triglycerides, and HDL-cholesterol were measured.

Main Results:

• Low magnesium diet significantly reduced plasma and red blood cell magnesium levels.
• Increased plasma malondialdehyde and decreased TRAP were observed in the magnesium-deficient group, indicating elevated oxidative stress.
• Moderate increase in plasma glucose, hypertriglyceridemia, and decreased HDL-cholesterol were noted in the low magnesium group.

Conclusions:

• Magnesium deficiency is associated with increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation.
• Reduced plasma antioxidant capacity contributes to increased susceptibility to free radical injury.
• Magnesium plays a vital role in maintaining antioxidant balance and preventing oxidative stress-related diseases.