Biomarkers of antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in elderly patients with hypertension.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to examine selected parameters of the blood redox system in elderly patients with hypertension.examine selected parameters of the blood redox system in elderly patients with hypertension.

METHODS: We analyzed differences in redox-associated molecules and enzymes among elderly hypertensive subjects (age above 65 years, n = 49) and two groups of normotensive subjects (<65 years old - Control group I; n = 27, and >65 - Control group II; n = 30).

RESULTS: Decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes, increased lipid peroxidation and reduced production of nitric oxide were observed in hypertensive subjects, compared to healthy younger controls, or those of the same age. In healthy controls, an age-related decrease in the production of nitric oxide and the activities of SOD-1 and GPx-1 was also evident. The pathology of hypertension was characterised by further, significant decreases in the values of these parameters. When the subgroups of females and males were compared to their respective controls, a compromised redox balance was observed that was more evident in female hypertensives.

DISCUSSION: Hypertension in elderly patients is accompanied by changes in biomarkers of antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation status, which significantly differ from those observed in healthy ageing subjects. Our study also suggests that the relationship of gender and changes in redox balance with regard to hypertension should be further explored.