Oxidative Biomarker Profiles in Pediatric Populations: Implications for Early Cardiometabolic Risk Stratification

Abstract

Oxidative stress is considered a key factor in the early development of cardiometabolic disorders; however, its diagnostic significance in pediatric practice remains insufficiently defined. The aim of this study was to examine the profile of oxidative biomarkers in children with varying degrees of cardiometabolic risk and to evaluate their potential utility for early patient stratification. The study involved children who underwent a comprehensive assessment of anthropometric parameters, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism markers, and blood pressure, alongside measurements of lipid peroxidation products, carbonylated proteins, antioxidant enzyme activity, and total serum antioxidant capacity. An integral oxidative stress index was calculated based on the ratio of pro-oxidant to antioxidant markers. Children with excess body weight and signs of metabolic disorders exhibited significantly higher levels of oxidative modification products and lower antioxidant defense activity compared to children with normal metabolic parameters. Correlations were identified between the severity of oxidative stress and markers of insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and elevated blood pressure. The integral index proved to be the most informative measure, demonstrating high sensitivity to early signs of cardiometabolic dysfunction. Differences in the nature of the oxidative response were observed based on gender. These results indicate that assessing the oxidative biomarker profile can serve as an additional tool for the early stratification of cardiometabolic risk in children, justifying its inclusion in preventive monitoring programs.