Shan MA, Ishtiaq W, Kanwal S, Khan MU, Iftikhar A, Khan S. Cell-free DNA as a potential diagnostic biomarker in academic stress: A case-control study in young adults.
Saudi J Biol Sci 2024;
31:103933. [PMID:
38304540 PMCID:
PMC10831250 DOI:
10.1016/j.sjbs.2024.103933]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background
Stress is a pervasive issue in modern life, affecting both physical and mental health. Identifying biomarkers like cell-free DNA (cfDNA) could provide insights into stress response and help detect individuals at risk for stress-related disorders.
Objective
The aim of this study is to investigate the potential use of cfDNA as a diagnostic biomarker in individuals experiencing stress.
Methodology
A case-control analysis was conducted using convenient sampling on university participants (N = 285 cases, N = 500 controls) aged 18-24. The study assessed haematological and lipid profile parameters using the Sysmex XP-300TM automated analyzer and an automated biochemistry analyzer, and cfDNA was extracted using a standardized in house developed Phenol-Chloroform protocol and estimated using Agarose Gel Electrophoresis and Nanodrop. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS ver. 21.0.
Results
The results indicated a significant difference between stressed individuals and healthy controls in demographic, haematological and biochemical parameters. Specifically, stressed cases had significantly higher levels of cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, VLDL cholesterol, and lower levels of HDL compared to healthy controls. Stressed cases also showed significantly elevated levels of circulating cfDNA relative to healthy controls.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that cfDNA may have potential as a diagnostic biomarker for stress.
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