Myotonic dystrophy type 1 and oxidative imbalance: evaluation of ischemia-modified albumin and oxidant stress

Abstract Objectives Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals accumulate at high levels in the body, affecting biological molecules. Some studies have focused on the multisystemic involvement, signs of premature aging, and the potential role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). We aimed to evaluate the levels of oxidative stress markers in patients diagnosed with DM1. Methods In a cross-sectional study, 27 clinically and genetically confirmed DM1 patients and 34 healthy individuals matched for age and gender were included. Oxidative stress markers, including ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) levels, ischemia-modified albumin to albumin ratio (IMAR), and oxidative stress index (OSI) were examined. Results TOS (p=0.001), IMA levels (p=0.001), IMAR (p=0.004), and OSI (p<0.001) in the patient group were significantly higher than in the healthy group, while TAS (p<0.001) was lower in the patient group. Conclusions The elevation of oxidative stress markers suggests the potential effect on the pathogenesis of DM1. Thus, antioxidant therapy approaches could be crucial to reducing oxidative stress in patients with DM1.