Evaluating the Association Between Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein (OxLDL) and Nitric Oxide Levels in Iraqi Atherosclerosis Patients

Abstract

Background: Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition where plaques composed of lipids build up in arterial walls, causing them to harden and narrow. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) plays a crucial role in this process by triggering inflammatory responses and contributing to plaque formation. Nitric oxide (NO) is essential for maintaining vascular health, but its bioavailability is often reduced in atherosclerosis, exacerbating the condition. Objective: Evaluation of levels of oxLDL as an indicator of oxidative stress and assessment its effect on nitric oxide levels. Methods: This study included determination of the levels of oxLDL and nitric oxide in sera samples from 100 atherosclerosis patients in comparison with age and sex matched healthy donors. Results: The results showed that there is a statistically significant increase (p<0.01) in oxLDL levels in atherosclerotic individuals as compared to control group, while a statistically significant reduction (p<0.01) was observed in nitric oxide levels in patients’ group. Conclusion: The data indicates that elevated levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) and reduced levels of nitric oxide (NO) are significant markers in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Oxidative stress acts as a critical trigger for the formation of OxLDL, which in turn amplifies pro-inflammatory responses within the vascular system. High OxLDL levels contribute to endothelial dysfunction and promote inflammation, exacerbating plaque formation. Concurrently, decreased NO levels impair vascular relaxation and increase oxidative stress, further aggravating the condition. This interplay between oxidative stress, high OxLDL, and decreased NO highlights the complex mechanisms driving atherosclerosis and underscores the potential for therapeutic interventions targeting these pathways.