Abstract
This review focuses on racial differences in systemic levels of lipid peroxidation markers F(2)-isoprostanes as metabolic characteristics predisposing to obesity and type 2 diabetes. Elevated levels F(2)-isoprostanes were found in obesity, type 2 diabetes and their comorbidities. It was hypothesized that increased F(2)-isoprostane levels reflect the obesity-induced oxidative stress that promotes the development of type 2 diabetes. However, African Americans have lower levels of systemic F(2)-isoprostane levels despite their predisposition to obesity and type 2 diabetes. The review summarizes new findings from epidemiological studies and a novel interpretation of metabolic determinants of systemic F(2)-isoprostane levels as a favorable phenotype. Multiple observations indicate that systemic F(2)-isoprostane levels reflect intensity of oxidative metabolism, a major endogenous source of reactive oxygen species, and specifically, the intensity of fat utilization. Evidence from multiple human studies proposes that targeting fat metabolism can be a productive race-specific strategy to address the existing racial health disparities. Urinary F(2)-isoprostanes may provide the basis for targeted interventions to prevent obesity and type 2 diabetes among populations of African descent.