INTRODUCTION:Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most common causes of morbidity and death globally, driven by ischemic heart disease and oxidative stress. Quisqualis indica (Q. indica), a plant traditionally used in Chinese medicine, is recognized for its therapeutic potential due to its rich phytochemical profile, which includes flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins. OBJECTIVES:The objective of this study is to evaluate the cardioprotective potential of the ethanolic extract of Quisqualis indica using established experimental models. The study aims to assess its effect on key biochemical, histopathological, and functional cardiac parameters. The phytochemical constituents responsible for these effects will be explored, with emphasis on quercetin and related flavonoids. Ultimately, the study intends to establish Q. indica as a potential natural therapeutic agent for cardiovascular disorders. METHODS:This study investigates the cardioprotective efficacy of an ethanolic extract of Q. indica (EQI) in an isoproterenol (ISO)-induced MI rat model. Experimental groups were pretreated with EQI, and the extract's effects on various biochemical markers were evaluated. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:Results indicated that EQI significantly reduced oxidative indicators by lowering malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and restoring antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and catalase. Histopathological analysis showed reduced myocardial necrosis, edema, and fibrosis in EQI-treated groups compared to the ISO control group, confirming the cardioprotective potential of Q. indica. CONCLUSION:These findings suggest that Q. indica may serve as a natural therapeutic agent against MI through its antioxidative properties, potentially paving the way for the development of novel, plant-based cardioprotective treatments.
INTRODUCTION:This study aims to explore novel clinical microbiome therapeutics for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), diabetes, and obesity. Specifically, this work seeks to elucidate the efficacy, underlying mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of microbiome-based interventions for various chronic diseases by identifying recent findings from microbiome research, clinical trials, and meta-analyses. METHODS:Literature data for the present study were collected through a structured narrative review using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and clinical trial registries. We searched for evidence published between 2013 and 2024, with a particular focus on randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses of microbiome approaches for IBD, diabetes, and obesity. RESULTS:Gut microbiome therapies with promising effects in IBD, diabetes, and obesity include probiotics, prebiotics, Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT), engineered bacterial therapies, and dietary interventions. These interventions have been shown to reduce inflammation, enhance insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, and promote metabolic health. These effects are mediated by modulation of the immune response, metabolic control via microbial metabolites, and restoration of microbial balance and homeostasis. DISCUSSION:Microbiome-based therapies show promise in modulating inflammation and metabolism in chronic diseases; however, variable efficacy, limited large-scale clinical evidence, and mechanistic heterogeneity necessitate cautious interpretation and further validation. CONCLUSION:Microbiome therapies, being effective and safe, pose a risk of completely overturning current treatment paradigms. Future applications need to focus on combination therapies, personalized medicine, and technological advances to realize the potential of microbiome-based interventions to promote good patient health and quality of life.
Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are more prevalent and have created an alarming situation worldwide. Nutraceuticals are a class of nutrients that include common foods and fruits for managing various diseases. This paper adopts a narrative review approach, focusing on recent advances in nutraceutical-based interventions and nanotechnology applications for cardiovascular diseases. Methods: Extensive literature research on bioactive nutraceuticals was conducted using databases, such as WOS, PubChem, and Scopus, suggesting their potential for target validation and disease identification. Different keywords were used for searching database: Cardiovascular diseases, Nutraceuticals, Antioxidants, Nanoformulations, Targeted drug delivery. Results: Nutraceuticals play a significant role in reducing cardiovascular risk through antioxidant and free-radical scavenging mechanisms. Regular adherence to medicinal foods, such as nutraceuticals, improves health and significantly reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Several free radicals are generated during physiological and pathological reactions in the body, which are responsible for the degradation of organs. Discussion: Nutraceuticals scavenge reactive oxygen species via antioxidant mechanisms. Various novel nanotechnology approaches have been employed to enhance the therapeutic potential of nutraceuticals. Furthermore, nanotechnology has opened new doors for improving the bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivery of nutraceutical compounds. Nanoformulations, such as liposomes, niosomes, and nanoparticles, are employed to address issues of bioavailability, penetration, solubility, and therapeutic efficacy. It offers researchers cost-effective treatment approaches to improve cardiovascular outcomes. Conclusion: Novel approaches in the field of nutraceuticals possess significant activity in the management of cardiovascular diseases by enhancing stability, bioavailability, solubility, and therapeutic efficacy. Future research should focus on well-designed clinical studies and standardized nanoformulation protocols to facilitate clinical translation.
INTRODUCTION:Antihypertensive treatments, including diuretics and beta/calcium channel blockers, are associated with a range of adverse effects. Naturally sourced ACE inhibitors may serve as viable alternatives to synthetic medications. Various peptides derived from plants have been assessed for their ACE inhibitory properties through both in vivo and in vitro studies. The objective of this research was to evaluate the ACE inhibitory activity of seed-protein (muskmelon, watermelon, and sunflower) hydrolysates generated using different proteases. METHODS:ACE was extracted from sheep lung tissue, while protein from the mentioned seeds was isolated and hydrolysed using pepsin, trypsin, and crude enzyme from the stem of Wrightia tinctoria. Tricine-SDS PAGE (16%) was conducted to observe the nature of hydrolysis. The method by Cushman and Cheung was used to examine ACE inhibition. The results were compared across different sources and enzymatic treatments. RESULTS:Muskmelon hydrolysate treated with W. tinctoria enzyme exhibited the highest ACE inhibition at 85.17% ± 0.39 after 3 h of incubation (p <0.001), resembling the inhibitory effects observed in the positive control, Lisinopril, at 86.55% ± 1.15. DISCUSSION:The enhanced ACE inhibitory activity observed in muskmelon seed hydrolysate suggests the generation of potent bioactive peptides through enzymatic hydrolysis. Differences in inhibitory potential among seed-derived hydrolysates may be attributed to variations in protein composition and peptide profiles resulting from the use of different proteases. CONCLUSION:Muskmelon seed protein hydrolysate generated using W. tinctoria demonstrated strong in vitro ACE inhibitory activity, which was comparable to that of Lisinopril, a standard drug for ACE inhibition. These findings highlight its potential as a natural source of bioactive peptides for the management of hypertension.
Hyperlipidemia-a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated levels of lipids such as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood-is a growing global public health concern. It encompasses hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, and altered high-density lipoprotein levels, and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), stroke, and metabolic syndrome. Atorvastatin, an FDA-approved HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, is widely used to manage dyslipidemia and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Despite its effectiveness, atorvastatin is occasionally associated with adverse effects, including hepatic dysfunction, muscle-related symptoms, cognitive impairment, and insulin resistance. This has encouraged interest in adjunctive therapies using natural dietary components that may enhance lipid-lowering efficacy and mitigate side effects. This narrative review explores the emerging evidence on plant-based dietary supplements-such as green tea polyphenols, grape seed extract, Fructus schisandrae, isabgol, Phoenix dactylifera, plant sterols, polyphenol extracts, Salvia officinalis, Zingiber officinale (ginger), and legumes like horse gram and groundnut-and their synergistic potential when co-administered with atorvastatin. These natural agents exhibit a range of beneficial properties, including hypolipidemic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective effects. Studies demonstrate that combining atorvastatin with these dietary agents can enhance lipid profile improvement, reduce oxidative stress, and alleviate drug-induced organ toxicity. Notably, legumes such as horse gram and groundnut show promise in modulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory markers. Clinical trials are necessary to establish standardized doses, treatment durations, and safety profiles for wider human benefit.
Introduction:: Thrombosis remains a major global health burden, necessitating safer and more effective antithrombotic strategies. Current therapies, including vitamin K antagonists, heparin derivatives, and direct oral anticoagulants, are limited by bleeding risks despite the availability of reversal agents. Factor XIa (FXIa), a serine protease in the intrinsic coagulation pathway, has emerged as a promising target due to its central role in thrombosis while having minimal impact on hemostasis. Previous studies identified Sulfated Pentagalloyl Glucopyranose (SPGG) as a potent, selective, but heterogeneous allosteric inhibitor of FXIa. The study aimed to design and synthesize a chemically homogeneous derivative of SPGG (inhibitor 2) and to evaluate its potency, selectivity, and effect on human plasma coagulation, to identify a potentially safer FXIa-targeted anticoagulant candidate. Methods:: To address the heterogeneity of SPGG, inhibitor 2, a per-sulfated, chemically homogeneous derivative, was designed and synthesized through a three-step synthetic route. The inhibitory activity of inhibitor 2 against FXIa was evaluated, along with its selectivity against thrombin and FXa. Furthermore, its effect on human plasma coagulation was assessed by measuring the Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT). Results:: Inhibitor 2 demonstrated potent inhibition of FXIa with an IC₂⁽ of 1.42 ± 0.10 μM and showed marked selectivity over thrombin and FXa. Treatment with inhibitor 2 significantly prolonged the APTT of human plasma, indicating effective modulation of the intrinsic coagulation pathway. Discussion:: Inhibitor 2 overcomes the chemical heterogeneity of SPGG while retaining strong selectivity for FXIa over thrombin and FXa. It effectively prolongs APTT with minimal effect on PT, indicating selective targeting of the intrinsic pathway. These results demonstrate that chemical homogeneity can be achieved without compromising functional selectivity. Conclusion:: Inhibitor 2 represents a chemically homogeneous, selective, and potent FXIa inhibitor. These findings support its potential as a lead candidate for the development of FXIatargeted anticoagulants with a potentially reduced bleeding risk.
The endothelium forms the inner vital lining of blood vessels and controls vascular tone, hemostasis, and inflammation, maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis. Endothelial dysfunction, characterized by abnormal vasodilation, increased oxidative stress, and decreased nitric oxide bioavailability, is a key pathophysiological mechanism underlying many cardiovascular diseases. The review examines current approaches for addressing endothelial dysfunction in various disease states, with a special emphasis on cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes mellitus. We performed a thorough review of the literature on studies that investigated interventions for endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes mellitus. Mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness, and novel strategies were the primary focus of data extraction. Well-established therapies such as statins, ACE inhibitors, and antihypertensive drugs show robust benefits in enhancing endothelial function through antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory actions. Novel therapies targeting molecular pathways such as the NLRP3 inflammasome, YAP/TAZ signaling, and microRNA modulation have shown promising results in preclinical and early-stage clinical trials. Emerging drugs such as resveratrol, astragaloside IV, and SGLT-2 inhibitors also demonstrate favorable effects on endothelial function via various mechanisms. Non-pharmacological lifestyle interventions, including exercise and caloric restriction, provide complementary benefits, especially when used alongside pharmacotherapy. Endothelial dysfunction is a critical modifiable target in many disease states. Although traditional cardiovascular medications remain the cornerstone of treatment, novel targeted therapies and combination strategies are promising approaches to enhance endothelial function and reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Personalized treatments based on individual patients' specific pathophysiological mechanisms underlying their endothelial dysfunction should be the research focus in the future.
Approximately 422 million individuals worldwide have been diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus (DM), a severe metabolic disorder, within the last 30 years. The chemical pharmacology of bexagliflozin, the most recent SGLT-2i, has been investigated as a possible treatment for diabetes associated with type 2 (T2DM). Gliflozin Dapagliflozin (DAPA), canagliflozin, and bexgliflozin act by blocking the SGLT-2 protein present in both kidneys and induce the excretion of glucose in the form of urine by decreasing its reabsorption. This potentially effective treatment approach for T2DM has additional benefits, such as weight loss and cardiovascular protection. Similar to canagliflozin or dapagliflozin, explicitly, bexagliflozin is very specific and powerful for SGLT-2 inhibition. In 2023, the FDA granted approval for this medication. The levels of glucose in the blood are significantly lowered as a result of blocking the kidney's proximal tubule from reabsorbing glucose. This study draws attention to the structural advantages of bexagliflozin. Notably, the aryl C-glycoside bond with D-glucopyranose makes this drug exhibit increased metabolic stability and distinguish itself from other gliflozins. It elaborates on advantageous A.D.M.E properties, further efficiency in lowering HbA1c levels, contributing towards weight loss, and improvement of cardiovascular and renal outcomes, mainly among patients suffering from type 2 diabetes and comorbid CKD or cardiovascular risks. It also reviews key clinical trials by focusing on its safety with manageable side effects such as urinary tract infections. Overall, a comprehensive analysis has underlined the potential of bexagliflozin as a preferred treatment in diabetes management.
INTRODUCTION:The objective of this study was to compare the prophylactic efficacy of enoxaparin, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban in ambulatory patients with cancer. METHODS:In this randomized trial, patients were assigned to three groups: Group 1 received subcutaneous enoxaparin 40 mg daily (n = 35), Group 2 received oral dabigatran 150 mg daily (n = 11), and Group 3 received oral rivaroxaban 10 mg daily (n = 11) for a duration of three months. The primary outcomes were the incidence of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) and bleeding events. RESULTS:The incidence of VTE was 2 (3.5%) in patients receiving enoxaparin and 1 (1.7%) in those receiving dabigatran (P > 0.05). No thromboembolic events were reported in patients administered rivaroxaban. One patient (1.7%) in the enoxaparin group experienced a major bleeding episode (P > 0.05), while no major bleeding events were observed in patients receiving dabigatran or rivaroxaban. DISCUSSION:Enoxaparin, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban are widely used for the prevention of VTE in patients with cancer. Although some previous studies have reported differences in bleeding and VTE risk, the present study did not demonstrate significant differences among enoxaparin, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban in VTE prevention. Notably, the risk of VTE is substantially influenced by the type of cancer, the modalities of anticancer treatment, and the patient's clinical status. CONCLUSION:The efficacy and safety of enoxaparin, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban for the prevention of VTE in patients with cancer appear to be comparable. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER:Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20200407046984N1).
Anaemia is the term for low red blood cell numbers or a deficiency of hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells. This results in a reduction of oxygen-carrying capacity of blood to various tissues in the body, & lead to symptoms like weakness and exhaustion. There are various forms of anaemia, and they all have unique reasons. The main purpose of the review is to outline the types of anaemia and highlight the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools in detection. There is high accuracy in identifying anaemia by using AI and ML tools that include analyzing the laboratory parameters and medical imaging. There are various Machine learning tools to identify anaemia in the past and treat anaemia by using AI tools. Promising approaches for effective anemia identification and treatment are offered by AI-assisted methods. By incorporating these advancements into clinical practice, the burden of undetected or improperly managed anemia could be lessened, and patient outcomes could be improved.
BACKGROUND:Sympathomimetic nasal decongestants such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, oxymetazoline, and xylometazoline are commonly used to relieve nasal blockage caused by allergic rhinitis, infections, or sinus inflammation. They work by activating α-adrenergic receptors, which promote vasoconstriction. However, overuse or inappropriate use of these medications has been linked to serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular side effects. OBJECTIVE:The purpose of this review is to compile the available clinical evidence on the misuse and overuse of sympathomimetic nasal decongestants and their association with detrimental cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes. It examines potential mechanisms, identifies risk factors, highlights diagnostic concerns, and outlines preventive measures. METHODS:A thorough literature search was conducted using databases such as Medline, Pub- Med, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The selection included case reports, observational studies, pharmacovigilance data, and clinical investigations published in English that evaluated the negative cardiovascular or cerebrovascular effects of sympathomimetic decongestants. Duplicate records were removed. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:Although rare, significant events such as myocardial infarction, stroke, hypertensive crises, and vasospasm have been documented with both oral and intranasal sympathomimetics, particularly when used excessively or in combination with other medications. Strong vasoconstriction, endothelial dysfunction, and elevated sympathetic activity are the primary mechanisms underlying these adverse effects. Nonspecific symptoms and underreporting of OTC drug use can delay diagnosis. Numerous reports suggest potentially serious or fatal outcomes, and most clinical evidence comes from case reports rather than high-level studies. CONCLUSION:Sympathomimetic nasal decongestants are generally safe when used as directed. However, excessive or inappropriate use may lead to potentially fatal cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events. Healthcare professionals should thoroughly review patients' medication histories and provide clear instructions on proper use. Educating patients on the correct administration of sympathomimetic nasal decongestants and encouraging safer alternatives such as intranasal corticosteroids or saline sprays, when appropriate, is essential. Preventive measures, regulatory oversight, and interprofessional collaboration are crucial to ensuring safe use and reducing adverse outcomes.
INTRODUCTION:Heart failure (HF) is prevalent and debilitating, particularly among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study compared outcomes associated with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) versus the combination of furosemide and metformin in patients with HF and T2DM. METHODS:We used TriNetX, a global federated network of de-identified electronic health records from 98 healthcare organizations. Adults (≥18 years) with HF and T2DM were assigned to cohorts based on medication exposure. Propensity score matching (1:1) was performed to balance baseline characteristics. Outcomes were assessed using Cox models and Kaplan-Meier curves. RESULTS:Among 208,761 eligible patients (SGLT2i = 4,847; furosemide and metformin = 203,914), 4,824 patients per group remained after matching. In the matched cohorts, SGLT2i use was associated with lower all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.077 for furosemide and metformin vs. SGLT2i; p < 0.001) and reduced hospitalization risk (e.g., HR/RR estimates summarized in Tables 2 and 4; see figure caption for Cox HRs). At the end of the observed follow- up (median follow-up detailed in Table 3), Kaplan-Meier survival probability remained higher in the SGLT2i group (82.84%) compared with the furosemide and metformin group (21.33%). Given the magnitude of this absolute difference relative to randomized trials, residual confounding is likely despite matching. CONCLUSION:In this real-world analysis, SGLT2i use was associated with lower mortality and fewer hospitalizations compared with furosemide and metformin in patients with HF and T2DM. These findings should be interpreted as associations rather than causal effects due to the observational design and potential residual confounding. The results are hypothesis-generating and directionally consistent with prior randomized evidence.
Hypertension, a prevalent cardiovascular condition, increases the risk of strokes and myocardial infarctions by inducing elevated blood pressure. Its prevalence has risen, particularly in low- and middle-income nations. The incidence of hypertension in adults is higher in low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income nations. One significant class of antihypertensive drugs is α1-adrenoceptor antagonists, which inhibit α1-adrenergic receptors and promote vasodilation. Terazosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, and alfuzosin are examples of α1-adrenoceptor antagonists that have antihypertensive properties; however, they are linked to considerable side effects, including headaches, dizziness, reproductive problems, and postural hypotension. In the last several years, a number of novel α1-adrenergic antagonists have been synthesised by modifications of various pharmacophores such as Isochroman-4-one, Quinazolines, Piperazine, and Quinazoline-triazole, etc. The present review highlights recently synthesized α1-adrenoceptor antagonists for the management of hypertension, and emphasizes their structure-activity relationship and subtype selectivity.
BACKGROUND:Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a significant contributor to cardiac mortality in Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients. Inflammatory processes and oxidative stress play pivotal roles in the advancement of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). The Monocyte-to-High-- Density-Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio (MHR), a newly identified biomarker indicative of inflammatory and oxidative stress, has not been extensively researched in the context of pulmonary hypertension, especially within the scope of dilated cardiomyopathy. OBJECTIVE:Given the reason mentioned above, our research explores the correlation between the MHR and the severity of PH in patients suffering from DCM. METHODS:In this study, we conducted a retrospective review of medical data from 107 individuals diagnosed with non-ischemic DCM, evaluating their clinical profiles, biochemical indicators, MHR, and echocardiographic parameters. We analyzed the relationships between Pulmonary Arterial Systolic Pressure (PASP) and the Ejection Fraction of the Left Ventricle (LVEF). Utilizing logistic regression analysis, we determined the predictors of PH. RESULTS:Findings indicated that the DCM-PH group exhibited a significantly larger male population and elevated New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification scores (both with p-values <0.001 and 0.01, respectively) compared to the DCM-only group. A positive association was observed between the PASP and parameters, such as the Dimensions of the Left Atrium (LAD) and Left Ventricle in Systole (LVDs), Monocyte (M) levels, Direct Bilirubin (DB), and MHR. Conversely, an inverse relationship was noted with serum lipid profiles, including Total Cholesterol (TC), HDL Cholesterol (HDL-c), and apolipoprotein A1. LVEF demonstrated positive linkage with the same lipid profiles and the Left Ventricular Posterior Wall Thickness (LVPWT) yet showed negative correlations with the NYHA classification, Red Blood Cell Distribution Width Standard Deviation (RDW-SD), Total Bilirubin (TB), Direct Bilirubin (DB), and dimensions of the left ventricle in diastole and systole, as well as MHR. Through logistic regression analysis, several factors were recognized as significant predictors for the severity of PH within the DCM cohort, with weight (OR1.20, CI 1.022-1.409, p=0.026), RDW-SD (OR1.988, CI 1.015-3.895, p=0.045), LVPW (OR3.577, CI 1.307-9.792, p=0.013), LVDd (OR1.333, CI 1.058-1.680, p=0.015), MHR (OR3.575, CI 1.502-8.506, p=0.032), and TB (OR1.416, CI 1.014-1.979, p=0.041) showing positive associations, while apoB (OR0.001 CI0.001-0.824, p=0.045) exhibiting negative associations, all with p-values <0.05. CONCLUSION:Higher MHR and LVD correlate with increased PASP and reduced LVEF in DCMPH patients. MHR and LVPW are independent predictors of PH severity, indicating their potential as novel severity markers in DCM-related PH.
INTRODUCTION:Coriandrum sativum (C. sativum), widely known as coriander, is a herb of global significance, valued for its flavor and therapeutic properties. Originating from the Mediterranean, it has acclimatized to various continents, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. METHOD:This review article was compiled from the data obtained from Google Scholar, Pub- Med/Medline, ScienceDirect, Hinari, and EBSCO. RESULTS:The herb thrives in areas with favorable agricultural climates, such as India, China, and parts of Europe. The plant's phytochemical spectrum is notably rich, featuring essential oils, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and fatty acids. The seed oil is predominantly composed of linalool, complemented by γ-terpinene, decanal, and geranyl acetate. Both leaves and seeds are rich in nutrients, including tocopherols, carotenoids, chlorophylls, sugars, ascorbic acid, phenolics, and anthocyanins. C. sativum has shown beneficial effects in easing anxiety, depression, and convulsions, protecting neural health, combating bacteria and fungi, repelling insects, and supporting cardiovascular and diabetic health. DISCUSSION:These benefits are mainly due to the combined action of its phytochemicals. The toxicity study of this plant revealed that it is safe when administered in single or multiple doses. The essential oils of the herb have also been explored for their repellent and fumigant capabilities. Various clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate its different pharmacological safety profiles and assess its therapeutic potential. CONCLUSION:This review aimed to discuss the botanical features, chemical constituents, pharmacological properties, toxicity studies, and clinical trials. Further study is needed related to embryonic and other toxicities.
INTRODUCTION:Hypertension is associated with oxidative disturbances and often coexists with metabolic disorders like hyperlipidemia. Some antihypertensive drugs, particularly angiotensin- converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, offer benefits beyond lowering blood pressure by addressing related conditions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ACE inhibitors on oxidative stress and dyslipidemia induced by L-NAME hypertension in rats. METHODS:Fifteen male Wistar rats (150-170 g) were divided into three groups. Group 1 received 10 mL/kg distilled water (control), while Groups 2 and 3 were orally administered 60 mg/kg of L-NAME (L-NAME60) for eight weeks to induce hypertension. After this period, Group 2 continued to receive L-NAME60 plus distilled water (HYP), and Group 3 received L-NAME60 plus ramipril (10 mg/kg) (RMHYP) for an additional five weeks. Blood pressure was measured using the tail-cuff method. Serum oxidative stress markers and lipid profiles were analyzed by spectrophotometry. RESULTS:The blood pressure significantly decreased in RMHYP compared to HYP. Malondialdehyde concentration significantly decreased, and antioxidant enzyme levels significantly increased in RMHYP compared to HYP. Serum lipid profiles showed a significant decrease in total cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as atherogenic indices, but a significant increase in highdensity lipoprotein cholesterol levels in RMHYP compared to HYP. DISCUSSION:This research shows that ramipril not only lowers blood pressure but also significantly reduces oxidative stress and dyslipidemia in L-NAME hypertensive rats, indicating its potential as an effective treatment for metabolic syndrome. CONCLUSION:The findings of this study demonstrate that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ramipril) have the ability to act as both an antioxidant and an anti-dyslipidemic agent in hypertensive conditions.
Cardiovascular disease remains a leading global cause of mortality, with dyslipidemia as a major risk factor. While conventional lipid-lowering therapies are effective, they may have adverse effects, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. With its rich biodiversity and long-standing traditional medicine practices, Sri Lanka offers a natural alternative through medicinal plants with antilipidemic properties. Many of these plants are commonly used in Sri Lankan cuisine, not only enhancing flavor but also providing bioactive compounds that regulate lipid levels. This review explores the role of Murraya koenigii, Garcinia quesita, Garcinia zeylanica, Moringa oleifera, Tamarindus indica, Piper nigrum, and Trigonella foenum-graecum in managing dyslipidemia. These plants have demonstrated lipid-lowering effects by reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol, enhancing fat metabolism, and exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The review also promotes the integration of these herbs into daily meals for cardiovascular disease management, offering a natural remedy and prevention method. By integrating traditional knowledge with scientific research, Sri Lanka can enhance its healthcare system and improve cardiovascular health outcomes.
INTRODUCTION:The consumption of tea and coffee as beverages is prevalent worldwide, with each having potential health implications. The study investigated the effect of black tea (BT), green tea (GT), and coffee on blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and blood glucose level (BGL) in healthy females. METHODS:Forty (40) participants aged 18 to 26 were randomly assigned to four groups: control (250 mL warm water), GT (2 g GT dissolved in 250 mL of hot water), coffee (2 g coffee dissolved in 250 mL of hot water), and BT (2 g BT dissolved in 250 mL of hot water) groups with 10 subjects each. Each group was given its designated drink once a day for three consecutive days. Baseline measurements of BP, HR, and BGL were taken after a 15-minute rest before the consumption of the beverages. Follow-up measurements were taken at 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes after consumption for cardiovascular indices, and 30 and 60 minutes for BGL. This procedure was repeated for three days. RESULTS:The results showed no significant changes in BP, HR, and BGL in all the experimental groups compared to the control group. DISCUSSION:Coffee and tea are popular beverages enjoyed worldwide, recognized for their numerous health benefits largely due to their bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols and caffeine. The different concentrations of polyphenols and caffeine in these drinks can affect various physiological functions in distinct ways. The results of the present study showed no significant changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or blood glucose level among healthy young female participants who consumed green tea, coffee, and black tea, respectively. Although some previous studies have indicated that these beverages can significantly impact these health metrics, other research has shown no notable changes. The lack of significant findings in this study may be attributed to its short duration; a more extended study could potentially uncover significant changes. CONCLUSION:The findings of this study revealed that green tea, black tea, and coffee have no acute effect on blood pressure, heart rate, and blood glucose levels in healthy female individuals. It can therefore be concluded that green tea, black tea, and coffee have a neutral effect on these physiological parameters, but a more elaborate study is highly recommended.
BACKGROUND:Myocardial infarction (MI) is a disease characterised by myocardial necrosis due to acute and prolonged ischaemic hypoxia in the coronary arteries. MOTS-c is a mitochondrial- derived peptide that has been reported to have protective effects on cardiac tissue. Although this peptide is thought to be decreased in various diseases and can serve as a potential biomarker, current studies remain limited. OBJECTIVES:This study aimed to evaluate how the post-treatment process affects circulating MOTS- c peptide levels in myocardial infarction patients. METHODS:For this purpose, patients without obstructive coronary lesions on angiography were included in the control group, while those with significant obstructive coronary lesions on angiography were included in the infarction group. Routine biochemistry tests were performed using an autoanalyzer. Besides, serum MOTS-c levels were measured using ELISA. RESULTS:Our findings showed CRP, ESR, and troponin I levels to be higher in the MI group compared to the control group. Also, there was no significant change in MOTS-c levels between the control and the MI group, while time-dependent changes (day 0, day 3, and day 30) occurred within the MI group. However, a negative correlation was found between MOTS-c and platelet levels in the MI group at day 0 (r: -0.4417, p =0.0450). Similarly, MOTS-c was found to be negatively correlated with troponin I in the MI group at day 3 (r: -0.4571, p =0.0372). CONCLUSION:The negative correlation of MOTS-c level with both platelet and troponin I has shown that this peptide may contribute to the diagnostic and therapeutic evaluation of the MI process along with other parameters.
