Malondialdehyde (MDA) assay

Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a final product of lipid peroxidation , resulting from the degradation of polyunsaturated fatty acids under oxidative stress . It is one of the most widely used biomarkers for assessing oxidative damage in biological tissues, food products, or industrial products susceptible to oxidation.

In animals, MDA measurement is a reliable indicator of physiological state , particularly for assessing the impact of nutrition, rearing conditions or treatments on the oxidative balance of the organism.

Role and importance of MDA dosage

The measurement of malondialdehyde allows us to:

• Quantifying the level of lipid oxidation , a direct reflection of cell membrane degradation,
• Monitoring oxidative stress in biological matrices (plasma, liver, muscle, milk, etc.),
• To monitor the oxidative stability of food products and supplements,
• Evaluate the effectiveness of antioxidants in veterinary or nutritional formulations.

In animal health, MDA monitoring helps prevent metabolic disorders related to oxidative stress , such as decreased fertility, susceptibility to infections, or degradation of zootechnical performance.

Analytical methods used

At YesWeLab , MDA quantification relies on two main analytical approaches, chosen according to the nature of the matrix and the expected precision:

• TBARS (Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances) method – spectrophotometry :
  Classical method based on the reaction of MDA with thiobarbituric acid (TBA) to form a colored complex measurable at 532 nm . It is suitable for routine analyses and lipid-rich matrices (oils, meats, animal feed).
• HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) :
  The reference technique for the specific quantification of MDA , even at low concentrations. It allows for the differentiation of free MDA from other compounds reactive with TBA. This method is preferred for biological samples, complex extracts, and research studies .

These two approaches are standardized according to the ISO 6885 (fats) and AOAC 994.10 , guaranteeing the reliability and comparability of the results.

Applications of MDA dosage

The measurement of malondialdehyde has applications in various sectors:

• Animal health : monitoring of oxidative stress in livestock (ruminants, poultry, fish), evaluation of the effectiveness of dietary antioxidants, control of physiological state in veterinary research.
• Agri-food : measurement of the oxidative stability of oils, meats, dairy products or fortified foods , prevention of rancidity and loss of sensory quality.
• Nutritional supplements : assessment of the sustainability and purity of antioxidant formulas based on polyphenols, tocopherols or carotenoids.
• Research and development : monitoring oxidative mechanisms in animal or plant tissues, and validation of innovative antioxidant active ingredients.

Interpretation of results

MDA values ​​depend on the matrix , the sampling method , and the storage conditions . In general:

• An increase in MDA reflects an intensification of oxidative stress.
• A reduction after supplementation with antioxidants (vitamin E, selenium, flavonoids) indicates an improvement in cell protection.

These measures are therefore essential to correlate nutritional quality and physiological health in animal or food studies.

Affected matrices

• Animal serum and plasma
• Liver, muscle and biological tissues
• Vegetable or animal oils
• Food products and nutritional supplements
• Animal feed and enriched formulations

Recommended Related Analyses

For a complete assessment of oxidative stress, YesWeLab recommends combining MDA measurement with other complementary analyses:

• Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) assay : measurement of antioxidant enzyme activity,
• Selenium dosage : a key element of the antioxidant system,
• Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) assay : monitoring the antioxidant status of tissues and foods,
• Assay of polyunsaturated fatty acids : analysis of substrates sensitive to lipid oxidation.

Why entrust your analysis to YesWeLab?

Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting stakeholders in animal health, nutrition, and research in the quantification of oxidative stress and biochemical markers.
Through a network of accredited partner laboratories (ISO 17025 / COFRAC) , YesWeLab guarantees:

• Reliable, reproducible and interpretable results ,
• Methods adapted to each type of matrix ,
• Dedicated scientific support for the implementation and interpretation of analyses,
• Simplified management via a digital tracking and ordering platform.

Need to assess oxidative stress in your products or biological samples?
Contact YesWeLab now for a quick quote and analyses certified according to international standards.