Abstract

Background: In the forthcoming decades, there will be a tremendous increase in the elderly population in India. According to free radical theory, aging is a result of cumulative damage incurred by free radical reactions (reactive oxygen species [ROS]). Antioxidant system (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, etc.) performs the function of neutralizing of these ROS activities. Free radicals cause peroxidation of membrane lipids and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) can be used as a biomarker to assess the overall lipid peroxidation level. Lipid peroxidation will alter the membrane permeability to electrolytes/other ions and may lead to alteration in the electrolyte or mineral levels.

Aims and Objectives: This study aims to compare the serum levels of calcium and magnesium in different age groups and to find out its correlation with serum MDA level.

Materials and Methods: A total of 150 healthy subjects (20–90 years) were recruited and divided into three groups of 50 each; as young (20–30 years), middle aged (40–59 years), and the elderly (60–90 years). Serum MDA, calcium, and magnesium levels were determined and compared. The correlation between serum MDA and with calcium and magnesium levels was analyzed with appropriate statistical tests.

Results: The present study revealed a significant fall in serum calcium and magnesium levels in the elderly. A negative correlation between serum MDA with calcium and magnesium was observed.

Conclusion: It is evident that lipid peroxidation plays a role in alteration in the serum calcium and magnesium levels with aging.

Key words: Lipid Peroxidation; Aging; Calcium; Magnesium; Malondialdehyde; Antioxidants