Oxidative Stress And Antioxidant Dysfunction In Hypertension: Mechanisms And Clinical Insights

Abstract

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Oxidative stress, an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants defences, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of HTN. This study investigates the association between oxidative stress markers, anthropometric indices, lipid profiles, and HTN. 

Material and Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 120 hypertensive subjects and 120 normotensive subjects (ages 30–60) at Index Medical College, Indore. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure (BP), lipid profiles, and oxidative stress markers (CAT, SOD, GPx, and LPO) were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM-SPSS (p < 0.05).

Results: Hypertensive subjects exhibited significantly higher BMI, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and lipid profile parameters, including cholesterol and triglycerides (p < 0.001), compared to normotensive subjects. Oxidative stress markers showed significant differences: CAT, SOD, and GPx levels were lower, while LPO levels were elevated in hypertensive subjects (p < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed a positive association between BMI, WHR, lipid parameters, and BP, while antioxidant enzyme levels were negatively correlated with systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). 

Conclusion: The study highlights the significant role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of HTN. Reduced antioxidant activity and increased lipid peroxidation suggest redox imbalance. Additionally, the positive correlation between anthropometric indices, lipid profiles, and BP emphasizes the interplay of metabolic and oxidative factors in HTN. These findings underscore the potential of targeting oxidative stress and metabolic dysregulation for therapeutic interventions in hypertensive subjects.