Mechanisms of Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions associated with the risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Metabolic syndrome is closely related to obesity. Increased adiposity promotes inflammation and oxidative stress, which are precursors of various complications involving metabolic syndrome components, namely insulin resistance, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. An increasing number of studies confirm the importance of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the etiology of metabolic syndrome. However, few studies have reviewed the mechanisms underlying the role of oxidative stress in contributing to metabolic syndrome. In this review, we highlight mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase mitochondrial dysfunction, protein damage, lipid peroxidation, and impair antioxidant function in metabolic syndrome. Biomarkers of oxidative stress can be used in disease diagnosis and evaluation of severity.

Automated summary

Metabolic syndrome is a collection of conditions that increase the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Obesity is closely linked to metabolic syndrome, as it promotes inflammation and oxidative stress, which are precursors of complications relating to metabolic syndrome components such as insulin resistance, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. While oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are known to play a significant role in the development of metabolic syndrome, there has been limited research on the mechanisms underlying the contribution of oxidative stress. This review highlights the mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction, protein damage, lipid peroxidation, and impaired antioxidant function in metabolic syndrome. Biomarkers of oxidative stress can be utilized for disease diagnosis and severity evaluation.