Exploring the relationship between serum LOX-1, Ox-LDL, and generalized anxiety disorder

This study aimed to explore the serum concentrations of lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL), alongside their associations with haematological parameters in individuals diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

The study included 40 drug naive patients diagnosed with GAD and 40 healthy controls similar in gender, age, and Body Mass Index (BMI). Laboratory values and Ox-LDL and LOX-1 levels were measured. The severity of GAD was evaluated using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS).

Serum Ox-LDL levels were significantly elevated in the GAD group compared to the control group (p = 0.005). However, no significant difference was observed in LOX-1 levels between the groups (p = 0.104). The neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) differed significantly (p = 0.027). A robust positive correlation emerged between Ox-LDL levels and HARS scores (r = 0.467, p = 0.002), and between Ox-LDL and LOX-1 (r = 0.345, p = 0.029).

This study suggests that serum Ox-LDL and NLR may have a potential role in the relationship between oxidative stress and inflammation in the pathophysiology of GAD. This is the first study investigating the interaction between Ox-LDL, LOX-1, haematological parameters and GAD and underlines the need for further research in this field.