Biochemical Assessment of Neurotransmitter-Related Metabolites, Antioxidant Capacity, and Essential Trace Elements in Relation to Cognitive Function among Adults in Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh
- Jul 17
- 2 min read
https://doi.org/10.66715/ijnn/2026.v2.i1.6979 | Original Research | 2026 | Volume 2 | Issue 1 | Page 69-79
Dr. Amit Thakur, Aadharshila Academy, Jogindernagar, Distt Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175015
Corresponding Author
Dr. Amit Thakur
Aadharshila Academy,
Jogindernagar, Distt Mandi,
Himachal Pradesh 175015
Abstract
Background: Cognitive function is influenced by a complex interplay of neurotransmitter metabolism, oxidative stress, and micronutrient status. Alterations in neurotransmitter-related metabolites, antioxidant defenses, and essential trace elements have been implicated in cognitive decline, memory impairment, and neurodegenerative disorders. However, community-based biochemical data correlating these biomarkers with cognitive performance remain limited, particularly in the Himalayan region of India.
Objective: To evaluate the association between neurotransmitter-related metabolites, antioxidant capacity, and essential trace elements with cognitive function among adults residing in Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 200 adults aged 20–65 years from urban and rural areas of Mandi District. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Blood samples were analyzed for neurotransmitter-related metabolites, including serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and homocysteine, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Antioxidant status was evaluated by measuring total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Essential trace elements (zinc, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, and selenium) were quantified using inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Statistical analyses included Pearson's correlation, multiple linear regression, and multivariate analysis with a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results: Participants with higher cognitive scores demonstrated significantly greater serum antioxidant enzyme activities and higher concentrations of zinc, magnesium, and selenium, whereas elevated homocysteine, glutamate, and MDA levels were associated with poorer cognitive performance. Positive correlations were observed between serotonin, dopamine, TAC, SOD, GPx, and MoCA scores (p < 0.05). Multivariate regression identified serum zinc, selenium, dopamine, and total antioxidant capacity as independent predictors of cognitive function after adjustment for age, sex, education, and body mass index.
Conclusion: Neurotransmitter-related metabolites, antioxidant defense mechanisms, and essential trace elements are significantly associated with cognitive performance among adults in Mandi District. These biochemical markers may serve as valuable indicators for the early identification of individuals at risk of cognitive decline and support the development of nutritional and preventive strategies aimed at promoting brain health.