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Analytical Techniques for Assaying Nitric Oxide Bioactivity
Published on: June 18, 2012
Reference values for serum nitric oxide metabolites in pediatrics
Asghar Ghasemi1, Saleh Zahediasl, Fereidoun Azizi
1Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Nitric Oxide : Biology and Chemistry
|July 30, 2010
Summary
This study establishes crucial reference ranges for serum nitric oxide metabolites (NO(x)) in children and adolescents. These findings are vital for assessing cardiovascular disease risk factors in pediatric populations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Serum nitric oxide metabolites (NO(x)) are linked to cardiovascular disease risk factors in children.
- Establishing pediatric-specific reference ranges for NO(x) is essential for accurate health assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine sex- and age-specific reference ranges for serum NO(x) concentrations in a pediatric cohort.
- To investigate potential differences in NO(x) levels related to weight status in children and adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Serum NO(x) levels were measured using the Griess method in 401 healthy children and adolescents (ages 4-19).
- Reference values were determined following International Federation of Clinical Chemistry guidelines, employing a robust method for sample size considerations.
- Subjects were drawn from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study cohort.
Main Results:
- Established 95% reference ranges for serum NO(x): 13.6-69.2 μmol/L (boys), 11.4-66.0 μmol/L (girls), and 12.2-69.4 μmol/L (total).
- Overweight/obese boys showed a 28% lower upper limit of NO(x) compared to normal-weight boys.
- Overweight/obese girls exhibited a 6% higher upper limit of NO(x) compared to normal-weight girls.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first reported reference values for serum NO(x) in healthy pediatric populations.
- Sex and weight status appear to influence serum NO(x) levels in children and adolescents.
- These reference ranges can aid in the early identification of cardiovascular disease risk in pediatrics.
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