Taurine: A double-edged sword in reducing atherosclerotic plaque formation

Abstract Purpose The role of taurine in the development of atherosclerosis remains controversial. Taurine supplementation may attenuate atherosclerosis by reducing lipid levels, while energy drinks containing taurine have been shown to increase blood pressure, a key risk factor for atherosclerosis. The aim of this study is to measure the levels of taurine in the plasma of patients with acute coronary syndrome and investigate the effect of taurine on the susceptibility of atherosclerotic plaques to rupture. Methods A 1,2-13C2-taurine-labeled quantification method by UPLC-QQQ-MS/MS was used to measure the plasma levels of taurine in 105 patients with coronary heart disease. A carotid artery cannula mouse model was used to assess the effect of taurine on plaque formation. Results The level of taurine was significantly higher in the plasma of patients with coronary heart disease (4.04 µg/mL ± 0.24 µg/mL) compared to healthy controls (3.52 µg/mL ± 0.22 µg/mL). Taurine administration was found to decrease plaque area in carotid artery cannula ApoE−/− mice, but also increased the susceptibility of plaque to rupture, as indicated by Masson's Trichrome staining and α-SMA/CD68. Conclusion While taurine supplementation may reduce the size of atherosclerotic plaques, it may also increase the risk of plaque rupture. Therefore, the use of dietary supplements containing taurine should be done with caution.