Serum cholinesterase activity in population samples from Iraq

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Human Physiology
• Clinical Chemistry

Background:

• Serum cholinesterase (SChE) is a critical enzyme involved in neurotransmission and detoxification.
• Understanding SChE activity in diverse populations is essential for establishing reference ranges and identifying potential health disparities.
• Previous studies have reported varying SChE levels across different ethnic groups and geographical locations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the normal range of serum cholinesterase activity in a healthy Iraqi population.
• To investigate potential correlations between SChE levels and demographic factors such as sex, age, and blood group.
• To compare findings with previously reported SChE values from other populations.

Main Methods:

• Enzyme activity was quantified using spectrophotometric assays.
• A cohort of healthy adult Iraqi subjects was recruited for the study.
• Statistical analyses were performed to assess differences and relationships between SChE levels and demographic variables.

Main Results:

• Serum cholinesterase activity exhibited a broad distribution within the studied Iraqi population.
• A statistically significant difference in enzyme activity was observed between male and female subjects.
• The measured SChE levels were notably higher compared to those reported in international literature.
• No significant association was found between SChE activity and age or ABO blood groups in either sex.

Conclusions:

• The study establishes baseline serum cholinesterase levels for the Iraqi population, highlighting sex-based differences.
• Elevated SChE activity in this cohort warrants further investigation into potential genetic or environmental factors.
• The lack of correlation with age and blood group suggests these factors are not primary determinants of SChE levels in this population.