Cu/Zn ratios are associated with nutritional status, oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune abnormalities in patients on peritoneal dialysis

Objectives: We evaluated the relationship of the plasma copper/zinc (Cu/Zn) ratio with nutritional status, inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune function in peritoneal dialysis patients. Design and methods: Clinical and laboratory parameters were measured in patients (n = 45) and age- and sex-matched healthy individuals (n = 30). Results: There were significant negative correlations of the Cu/Zn ratio with nutrition-related parameters (body mass index [BMI], creatinine, hemoglobin, and albumin) and antioxidant (vitamin C and E) levels and positive correlations of the Cu/Zn ratio with the levels of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and oxidation products (malondialdehyde [MDA] and protein carbonyl). The Cu/Zn ratio was negatively correlated with the percentages of B- and T-lymphocyte subsets and the ratio of CD4/CD8 antigens. Conclusions: In peritoneal dialysis patients, elevated Cu/Zn ratios are associated with malnutrition, increased oxidative stress, inflammation, and disrupted immune status. (C) 2011 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.