[Soluble leukocyte adhesion molecules in vegetarians of various ages].

Objectives: Upregulation of leukocyte adhesion molecules under atherogenic conditions is accompanied by the release of soluble forms of adhesion molecules into the bloodstream. Vegetarians have a favorable cardiovascular risk profile. The aim of the present study was to assess the levels of circulating E-selectin (cE-selectin), circulating intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (cICAM-1), and circulating vascular adhesion molecule-1 (cVCAM-1) in both vegetarians and subjects of the average population and furthermore to evaluate the age dependence of cell adhesion molecules.

Methods: 24 male and 59 female vegetarians (mainly members of the German Society of Vegetarians) and 124 male and 179 female control subjects (volunteers, of the ILSE study Leipzig = Interdisciplinary Long Time Study of Health Adult Age and the Lipid-Study Leipzig), 18-89 years old were included in the study. The serum levels of circulating cell adhesion molecules were determined using monoclonal antibody-based ELISA assays (R & D Systems, Abingdon, Europe Ltd.).

Results: Vegetarians were characterized by a favorable lipid profile and a low prevalence of common risk factors for atherosclerosis. This group showed a tendency towards lower cICAM-1 levels in comparison with control subjects. Furthermore, significantly lower cE-selectin levels were found in the group of vegetarians. An age-dependent increase of cVCAM-1 and cICAM-1 levels was found both in the group of vegetarians and control subjects. No significant differences were noted regarding the gender of the subjects included in the study.

Conclusion: Low cE-selectin levels of vegetarians may reflect the favorable cardiovascular risk profile of this group. Furthermore, the present data indicate that cVCAM-1 and cICAM-1 are age-dependent parameters independent of risk for atherosclerosis.