Understanding the Correlation of Cotinine on Early Vascular Function Decline via Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 Activation in Smokers

Introduction: Oxidative stress describes an imbalance of pro-oxidant and antioxidant levels in cells. This study aimed to investigate the significant correlation of Cotinine on Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 (MCP-1) and Nitric Oxide (NO) as an indicator of vascular function. Methods: The research, designed as a comprehensive cross-sectional study, included a sample of non-smokers (n=100) and smokers (n=100). The study utilised Cotinine, MCP-1 Human MCP-1 ELISA kit, and Nitric Oxide Colorimetric Assay kit, with data analysis conducted using Wrap Partial Least Square. Results: This study showed a significant effect between Cotinine with MCP-1 (p-value <0.001) and Cotinine with NO (p-value <0.029). The impact of MCP-1 on NO resulted in a p-value of <0.001. Indirectly, it can be known that the effect of Cotinine on NO through MCP-1 produces a p-value of <0.001. The study concluded a significant direct association between Cotinine and MCP-1, Cotinine and NO, and MCP-1 and NO. Meanwhile, the indirect relationship of Cotinine on NO through MCP-1 is paramount. Conclusion: These findings underscore Cotinine's direct and indirect results on vascular function decline, contributing significantly to our understanding of vascular inflammation and providing a new perspective on the impact of smoking on cardiovascular health.