Level of advanced oxidation protein products is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundOxidative stress is an important factor in the pathomechanism of atherosclerosis. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) are considered markers of oxidative stress. Thickening of the carotid intima-media layers indicates subclinical atherosclerosis and can be detected by carotid ultrasound.ObjectiveOur aim was to examine the association between carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and the level of AOPPs.MethodsCarotid duplex scans and measurements of AOPPs were performed on 476 participants of a cardiovascular population study. The presence of conventional cardiovascular risk factors was investigated with a questionnaire, physical examination, and laboratory tests.ResultsThere was a positive correlation between maximum CIMT and the level of AOPPs only in the male population (r = 0.219,p = 0.033). Multivariate analysis has revealed that the association between AOPPs and mean or maximum CIMT was independent of cardiovascular risk factors (OR = 1.458,p = 0.004, and OR = 2.038,p < 0.001).ConclusionsAmong males, the elevated level of AOPPs as a marker of oxidative stress may signal the existence of early atherosclerotic alterations.