Evaluation of the Relationship Between Trace Element Levels and Cellular Adhesion Molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1) in Hemodialysis Patients

<b>Background</b>: Both chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the haemodialysis procedure can contribute to disturbances in mineral homeostasis, which can potentially result in cellular pathologies. Our study aims to investigate trace element levels in haemodialysis patients and evaluate their potential impact on cellular adhesion molecules. This will clarify the clinical significance of trace element imbalances in this population. <b>Methods</b>: The study included 84 haemodialysis patients and 42 healthy controls. Trace element levels in blood (Zn, Cu, Mn, Mo, V, Sb and Cr) were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and cellular adhesion markers ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 were analysed by ELISA. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 20.00, with significance set at <i>p</i> < 0.005. <b>Results</b>: Manganese (Mn) levels were significantly higher in haemodialysis patients (<i>p</i> = 0.019). Copper (Cu), Molybdenum (Mo), Vanadium (V), Antimony (Sb) and Chromium (Cr) levels were higher in the control group. Zinc (Zn) and Cr levels differed significantly between the control group (<i>p</i> = 0.018; <i>p</i> = 0.007). Cu levels were lower in hypertensive patients (<i>p</i> = 0.011), while Zn and Mn levels were higher in diabetic patients (<i>p</i> = 0.048 and <i>p</i> = 0.004, respectively). Dialysis duration, however, correlated with Sb (r = 0.295; <i>p</i> = 0.01), and Kt/V correlated with Mn, Sb and Cr (r = 0.256, r = 0.272 and r = 0.259, respectively; <i>p</i> = 0.05). Mo levels showed a positive correlation with both pre-dialysis (r = 0.230) and post-dialysis (r = 0.281) creatinine levels, and a negative correlation with post-dialysis GFR (r = -0.294). ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels were significantly elevated in dialysis patients (<i>p</i> = 0.001 for both); however, it was not found to be related to variables in the vascular access route. <b>Conclusions</b>: The levels of trace elements and adhesion molecules were examined in haemodialysis patients. High Mn levels indicate a risk of accumulation, while low Cu, Mo, V, Sb and Cr levels may require monitoring for deficiency. ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 levels in haemodialysis patients are associated with some trace elements (Mn and Zn); however, this relationship requires further evidence. In conclusion, the levels of trace elements and adhesion molecules in haemodialysis patients indicate the need for regular monitoring and show that the relationships between creatinine and GFR can be applied to larger patient groups.