Trace Elements and Paraoxonase-1 Activity in Lower Extremity Artery Disease

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Environmental Health
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in age-related diseases and atherosclerosis.
• Metals exposure and reduced paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity are potential contributing factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate trace element levels and PON1 activity in patients with lower extremity artery disease (LEAD).
• To explore the relationship between trace elements, PON1 activity, and disease severity.

Main Methods:

• Inductively coupled mass spectrometry for trace element analysis.
• In-house methods for measuring PON1-related variables.
• Comparison of LEAD patients with matched healthy controls.

Main Results:

• LEAD patients had higher serum As, Ba, Cu, and Sr, and lower PON1 activity.
• Serum zinc (Zn) was uniquely associated with PON1 activity and ankle-brachial index.
• Serum Cu correlated with disease severity, while As, B, Ba, and Zn showed negative trends.

Conclusions:

• Zinc may exert protective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in non-coronary atherosclerosis via PON1 activity.
• Evaluation of serum trace elements and zinc supplementation could aid LEAD patient treatment.