Oxidative stress and nitric oxide in sedentary older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Individuals with moderate-to-profound intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are characterized by significant cognitive deficits, abnormal muscle tone, poor posture and balance, and inactive lifestyle. Increased oxidative stress (OS) has been implicated in a variety of chronic diseases, inflammatory conditions, aging, and even following intense physical exercise. Nitric oxide (NO) is a highly reactive mediator that has been shown to play different roles in a variety of different biological process and in aging. The aim of the study was to investigate the serum levels of global OS and NO metabolites (NOx) in sedentary and non-sedentary older adults with IDD. Global OS was measured by CR 3000 instrument, FORM system, and NOx were measured by determination of serum nitrite levels. OS and NOx levels were significantly higher in sedentary IDD comparing non-sedentary controls. The increased of OS and NOx levels suggest their possible involvement in the phenomenon of ‘accelerated aging’ in IDD. Our findings can provide another aspect indicating both OS and NOx as possible biochemical markers and their potential application in minimizing their negative influence through future therapeutic strategies.