Oxidative stress-related parameters and antioxidant status in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients

Abstract

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a denomination that encompasses clinical and pathological spectrums, ranging from simple steatosis to Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis and cirrhosis. Considering the importance of obesity as a risk factor of this disease and oxidative stress, as an effective factor in pathogenesis, coupled with inflamation and its progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, this study was conducted to investigate the rate of overweight and obesity and oxidative stress status in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, 50 NAFLD patients and 48 healthy controls were enrolled. Antropometric measurements were taken, according to standard protocol. Serum hepatic enzymes, lipid profile and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined by the auto analyzer and Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) was measured by the feluorimetry method. Data was analyzed by SPSS (version 11.5), and statistical tests such as T-test and Chi-square were used. Correlations were performed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: Mean BMI was significantly higher in NAFLD patients, compared to controls. There was no significant difference between the two groups in relation to mean serum levels of MDA (p=0.1). In contrast, the mean serum levels of TAC was significantly lower in patients than in controls (p=0.02). Conclusion: Based on this study, combating overweight and obesity seems to be a preventive strategy for healthy people, thereby forestalling the progression of this disease. Furthermore, considering the lower level of TAC in NAFLD patients, the use of antioxidant-rich foods and supplements can be therapeutically valuable.