Evaluation of the role of some non-enzymatic antioxidants among Iraqi patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

TL;DR

This study explores how antioxidant levels differ in Iraqi patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease compared to healthy individuals.

Contribution

The study reveals novel associations between low non-enzymatic antioxidant levels and liver injury in NAFLD patients.

Findings

NAFLD patients had significantly lower levels of coenzyme Q10, vitamins E and C compared to healthy controls.

Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels were observed in NAFLD patients, indicating liver injury.

Strong correlations were found between antioxidant levels and liver parameters in NAFLD patients.

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by hepatic fat accumulation in individuals consuming little or no alcohol, has become highly prevalent globally. Oxidative stress plays a central role in instigating inflammation and cell death pathways driving NAFLD progression. This case–control study aimed to elucidate the association between circulating levels of the pivotal non-enzymatic antioxidants – coenzyme Q10 and vitamins E and C – and liver injury parameters among 60 Iraqi NAFLD patients versus 30 healthy controls. NAFLD diagnosis entailed over 5% hepatic steatosis on ultrasound excluding other etiologies. Patients spanned three age groups: 20–29, 30–39, and 40–49. Substantially diminished antioxidant levels concurrent with elevated alkaline phosphatase enzyme were unveiled in NAFLD patients relative to controls (all p < 0.001). Age-based analysis reinforced widespread antioxidant depletion and liver enzyme augmentation across NAFLD patients. Significant correlations also emerged between antioxidants and liver parameters. Our novel observations confirm an antioxidant inadequacy likely perpetuating pathogenic oxidative reactions in NAFLD. Restoring such deficits through lifestyle or therapeutic interventions may confer preventative and disease-modifying value.

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