Assessment of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers (MDA, TAC, SOD) in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients and their Correlation with HbA1c Levels

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is closely linked with increased oxidative stress due to chronic hyperglycaemia, which disrupts the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defences. This study assesses key oxidative stress biomarkers—malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)—in patients with T2DM and examines their correlation with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving T2DM patients and age-matched healthy controls. Blood samples were analysed using standard biochemical methods to quantify oxidative stress markers and glycaemic control parameters. Results showed significantly elevated MDA levels in T2DM patients, reflecting increased lipid peroxidation and oxidative damage. Conversely, TAC and SOD activities were markedly reduced compared to the control group, indicating compromised antioxidant defence systems. Correlation analysis demonstrated a strong positive association between MDA and HbA1c, while TAC and SOD showed significant negative correlations with HbA1c. These findings suggest that poor glycaemic control exacerbates oxidative stress, contributing to diabetes-related complications. Monitoring oxidative stress biomarkers alongside HbA1c may enhance early identification of metabolic imbalance and support targeted therapeutic strategies. The study highlights the importance of antioxidant-focused interventions to improve clinical outcomes in T2DM patients