Work

Malondialdehyde in cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Year: 2025

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a marker of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress, processes involved in neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated circulating MDA concentrations in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) compared to cognitively healthy controls. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to 18 July 2025 identified 36 studies (48 group comparators) including 2,132 patients and 2,169 controls. Pooled analysis revealed significantly higher MDA concentrations in cognitively impaired individuals (SMD = 1.46, 95% CI 1.10–1.83; p < 0.001), with consistent increases in both AD (SMD = 0.82) and MCI (SMD = 1.24). Subgroup analyses showed comparable results across serum and plasma samples and across different geographical regions, while the analytical method influenced the effect size. Trim-and-fill analysis confirmed the robustness of findings despite publication bias. Circulating MDA is elevated in cognitive impairment, supporting its potential as a biomarker of early neurodegeneration and oxidative stress. Future studies should standardize measurement approaches and assess the utility of MDA for prognosis and treatment response. • Circulating malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations are significantly higher in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) compared to healthy controls. • The increase in MDA is evident in both plasma and serum samples, supporting its role as a systemic marker of oxidative stress in cognitive decline. • Subgroup analyses confirm consistent elevations across diagnostic categories (AD and MCI) and geographical regions, with analytical method influencing effect size. • Despite substantial heterogeneity and publication bias, sensitivity and trim-and-fill analyses confirm the robustness of the association. • Findings highlight MDA as a potential biomarker for early neurodegeneration, underscoring the need for standardized measurement protocols and longitudinal studies.

Source: Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews

DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106531

Authors: Stefano Zoroddu, Stefania Sedda, Arduino A. Mangoni, Ciriaco Carru, Angelo Zinellu

Institutions: University of Sassari, Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Sassari

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,860