Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a well-established biomarker of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, widely used to assess cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). As a reactive aldehyde formed during the degradation of polyunsaturated lipids, MDA can modify proteins and DNA, contributing to cellular dysfunction and disease progression. Accurate quantification of MDA in biological samples is crucial for investigating oxidative stress-related mechanisms in various pathological conditions such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Role of Malondialdehyde in Oxidative Stress

MDA is generated as a terminal product of lipid peroxidation, a process initiated by ROS attacking membrane lipids. Its accumulation reflects the extent of oxidative damage to cell membranes and is linked to ferroptosis, a regulated cell death pathway characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. Due to its reactivity, MDA forms adducts with amino and thiol groups on proteins and nucleic acids, leading to structural and functional alterations that exacerbate oxidative injury.

Applications

Applications of MDA assays include:

• Quantification of lipid peroxidation levels in oxidative stress research
• Monitoring ferroptosis and related cell death pathways
• Evaluating oxidative damage in disease models such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders
• Assessing antioxidant efficacy in therapeutic studies

Malondialdehyde assay kits are essential tools for measuring lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in biological research. The TBARS colorimetric method remains the most widely used due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, while ELISA-based assays provide enhanced specificity and sensitivity for detailed studies. These assays enable researchers to quantify oxidative damage, explore disease mechanisms, and evaluate antioxidant interventions, thereby advancing understanding of oxidative stress-related pathologies.