Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a simple organic compound that is a byproduct of lipid peroxidation, a process where fats in the body are damaged by free radicals. It is often used as a marker to assess oxidative stress, which can indicate cellular damage and various health conditions. In biological research, elevated levels of malondialdehyde are associated with several diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Measuring MDA levels can help scientists understand the extent of oxidative damage and its potential role in disease progression.