Frontiers in Nutrition (Apr 2022)

The Role of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in X-Link Adrenoleukodystrophy

  • Jiayu Yu,
  • Jiayu Yu,
  • Ting Chen,
  • Ting Chen,
  • Xin Guo,
  • Mohammad Ishraq Zafar,
  • Huiqing Li,
  • Huiqing Li,
  • Zhihua Wang,
  • Zhihua Wang,
  • Juan Zheng,
  • Juan Zheng

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.864358
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9

Abstract

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X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is an inherited disease caused by a mutation in the ABCD1 gene encoding a peroxisomal transmembrane protein. It is characterized by the accumulation of very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) in body fluids and tissues, leading to progressive demyelination and adrenal insufficiency. ALD has various phenotypes, among which the most common and severe is childhood cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (CCALD). The pathophysiological mechanisms of ALD remain unclear, but some in vitro/in vivo research showed that VLCFA could induce oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to damage. In addition, the evidence that oxidative stress and inflammation are increased in patients with X-ALD also proves that it is a potential mechanism of brain and adrenal damage. Therefore, normalizing the redox balance becomes a critical therapeutic target. This study focuses on the possible predictors of the severity and progression of X-ALD, the potential mechanisms of pathogenesis, and the promising targeted drugs involved in oxidative stress and inflammation.

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