Study of the Association between Thiols and Oxidative Stress Markers in Children with Obesity

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pediatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Obesity is a global epidemic and a major public health challenge.
• Oxidative stress, an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, is implicated in metabolic diseases.
• Reactive oxygen species contribute to inflammation, insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate serum levels of specific amino acids and oxidative stress markers in children with obesity.
• To explore the relationship between obesity, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress markers.
• To identify potential therapeutic strategies for managing obesity-related complications.

Main Methods:

• Serum levels of cysteine (Cys), cysteinyl-glycine (Cys-Gly), homocysteine (Hcy), and glutathione (GSH) were measured.
• Markers of oxidative stress including thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (T-BARS), 8-isoprostane, and protein carbonyl were analyzed.
• Total antioxidant status was determined, and correlations with Body Mass Index (BMI) and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were assessed.

Main Results:

• Children with obesity exhibited lower GSH and Cys-Gly levels, and higher Hcy and oxidative stress markers.
• Positive correlations were observed between BMI, Cys, GSH, Hcy, and insulin levels.
• BMI was positively correlated with HOMA-IR and 8-isoprostane levels, while age correlated with GSH and Cys levels.

Conclusions:

• Children with obesity show evidence of increased oxidative stress and altered amino acid profiles.
• Glutathione deficiency may play a role in obesity and its complications.
• Dietary supplementation with glutathione precursors offers a potential strategy to mitigate oxidative stress and manage obesity.