Correlation between glutathione peroxidase activity and anthropometrical parameters in adolescents with Down syndrome

Abstract

Since we have recently found that regular exercise increased erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activities such as glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in adolescents with Down syndrome, these programs may be recommended. This study was designed to assess the role of anthropometrical parameters as easy, economic and non-invasive biomarkers of GPX. Thirty-one adolescents with Down syndrome performed a 12-week training program. Three days after its ending, GPX activity and anthropometrical parameters were assessed. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed negative but significant association (r=0.49, p=0.022) between GPX activity and waist circumference (WC). Body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were not significant. We may conclude that anthropometrical parameters such as WC are easy to perform but not strongly associated to GPX activity. Further studies concerning other variables are needed.