Plasma aluminum is a risk factor for oxidative stress and inflammation status in hemodialysis patients

Objectives

The association between aluminum (Al), essential trace metals, oxidative stress, and inflammation status was evaluated in hemodialysis patients.

Design and methods

Biochemical parameters in blood were determined in long-term hemodialysis patients (n = 69) and age- and sex-matched healthy individuals (n = 30).

Results

Compared with healthy subjects, patients had significantly higher concentrations of plasma Al. Elevated Al was negatively associated with the essential metals zinc, selenium, and iron. Al concentrations were strongly and positively correlated with contents of the oxidation products malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl. Inverse relationships were observed between Al concentrations and reduced concentrations of glutathione, β-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Patients were also observed to have significantly increased production values of plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-5.

Conclusion

An increased plasma Al concentration is associated with disturbed concentrations of essential metals, increased oxidative stress, and increased inflammation status in hemodialysis patients.