The role of bioelements ‒ components of free radical oxidation ‒ in the genesis of childhood obesity

Abstract

Currently, there is no common understanding of the bioelement status of obese children and adolescents. In this regard, we have summarized the available data on open access and presented information on the role and content of bioelements involved in the regulation of free radical homeostasis in the genesis of childhood obesity. The literature review revealed modern ideas about obesity as a metabolic pathology. The multifactorial nature of the development of oxidative stress in obesity, including in children and adolescents, is considered, the role of bioelements in the regulation of free radical homeostasis is revealed and it is shown that they can act as cofactors of antioxidant enzymes and/or be initiators of oxidative reactions. The most significant bioelements involved in the regulation of free radical processes are copper, zinc, manganese, selenium and iron. The analysis of the literature shows that children and adolescents with obesity experience changes in the metabolism of the main bioelements involved in the regulation of redox homeostasis. The content of copper, zinc, selenium, manganese and iron may vary depending on the gender and age of the subjects, as well as the type of biomaterial being studied.

Keywords

• bioelements
• microelements
• free radical oxidation
• oxidative stress
• obesity
• children
• adolescents