Application of human plasma targeted lipidomics and analysis of toxic elements to capture the metabolic complexities of hypothyroidism
Background: Hypothyroidism (HT) affects millions worldwide and can lead to various lipid disorders. The metabolic complexity and the influence of toxic elements in autoimmune and non-autoimmune HT subtypes are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between plasma lipidome, toxic elements, and clinical classifications of HT in unexposed individuals. Methods: Samples were collected from 120 adults assigned to a study group with Hashimoto’s disease and non-autoimmune HT, and a healthy control group. Quantification of 145 pre-defined lipids was performed by using triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (TQ MS/MS) in multiple reactions monitoring (MRM) mode via positive electrospray ionization (ESI). Levels of toxic elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results: Significant associations between altered levels of several components of the plasma lipidome and Al, Cd, Ni, As, and Pb with HT were found. We show metabolic differences in lysophosphatidylcholines (LPC) and phosphatidylcholines (PC) between HT and controls, with distinct predicted activation patterns for lysolecithin acyltransferase and phospholipase A2. Conclusions: There are significant changes in the lipidome profiles of healthy subjects compared to euthyroid HT patients treated with L-thyroxine, which are related to the type of hypothyroidism and non-occupational exposure to toxic elements.
History
Publication
Molecules, 2024, 29, 5169Publisher
MDPIOther Funding information
This study was financially supported by the Medical University of Lublin (MUL), PL (grant:DS 53/ 2021–2023/Anna Błazewicz: “Investigation of endocrine disruptors, elemental and lipid ˙profiles in biological fluids and tissues in people with endocrine disorders”). MUL financed the purchase of chemical reagents and research materials and provided scientific equipment.Sustainable development goals
- (3) Good Health and Well-being
External identifier
Department or School
- Biological Sciences