Reduced antioxidant capacity in children with iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Cardiovascular Health
• Nutritional Biochemistry

Background:

• Adolescent iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and iron deficiency (ID) are prevalent nutritional concerns.
• Reduced antioxidant capacity is implicated in the pathogenesis of various chronic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the association between antioxidant enzymes (paraoxonase-1, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase) and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in adolescents with ID and IDA.
• To investigate the impact of iron deficiency on atherosclerosis susceptibility.
• To assess the effect of iron therapy on antioxidant status and CIMT in IDA patients.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study comparing 25 IDA patients, 25 ID patients, and 21 healthy controls (aged 14-15 years).
• Measurements included serum paraoxonase (PON1), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GSH-R), and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT).
• Follow-up measurements after 3 months of oral iron therapy in the IDA group.

Main Results:

• Adolescents with ID and IDA exhibited significantly higher CIMT compared to controls.
• Significantly lower activities of PON1, GSH-Px, and GSH-R were observed in IDA patients versus controls.
• Serum PON1 activity was also significantly lower in ID patients compared to controls.
• Iron therapy normalized PON1, GSH-Px, and GSH-R activities in IDA patients.

Conclusions:

• Decreased antioxidant capacity in adolescents with ID and IDA contributes to atherosclerotic changes.
• Prompt treatment of iron deficiency is essential to mitigate cardiovascular risks and prevent the progression to IDA.