Comparative effects of captopril and l-carnitine on blood pressure and antioxidant enzyme gene expression in the heart of spontaneously hypertensive rats

Biochar leachate reduces primary nitrogen assimilation by inhibiting nitrogen fixation and microbial nitrate assimilation

Biochar contains biotoxic aromatic compounds, and their influence on nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria, the critical nitrogen fixer in paddy soil, has never been tested. Here, the physiological, metabolomic, and transcriptomic analyses of Nostoc sp. PCC7120 in response to biochar leachate were performed. The results suggested that biochar leachate inhibited the efficiency of photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, and nitrate assimilation activities of nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria. Biochar leachate containing aromatic compounds and odd- and long-chain saturated fatty acids impaired the membrane structure and antenna pigments, damaged the D1 protein of the oxygen evolution complex, and eventually decreased the electron transfer chain activity of photosystem II. Moreover, the nitrogen fixation and nitrate assimilation abilities of nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria were inhibited by a decrease in photosynthetic productivity. A decrease in iron absorption was another factor limiting nitrogen fixation efficiency. Our study highlights that biochar with relatively high contents of dissolved organic matter poses a risk to primary nitrogen assimilation reduction and ecosystem nitrogen loss. Further evidence of the potential negative effects of biochar leachates on the fixation and assimilation capacity of nitrogen by soil microbes is needed to evaluate the impact of biochar on soil multifunctionality prior to large-scale application.

Parboiled Germinated Brown Rice Improves Cardiac Structure and Gene Expression in Hypertensive Rats

Hypertension leads to oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. The suppression of these indicators may be one treatment approach. Parboiled germinated brown rice (PGBR), obtained by steaming germinated Jasmine rice, reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in vivo. PGBR contains more bioactive compounds than brown rice (BR) and white rice (WR). Anti-hypertensive benefits of PGBR have been predicted, but research is lacking. The anti-hypertensive effects of PGBR were investigated in the downstream gene network of hypertension pathogenesis, including the renin-angiotensin system, fibrosis, oxidative stress production, and antioxidant enzymes in N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats. To strengthen our findings, the cardiac structure was also studied. PGBR-exposed rats showed significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to the hypertensive group. WR did not reduce SBP because of the loss of bioactive compounds during intensive milling. PGBR also reduced the expression of the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX4), which contribute to the renin-angiotensin system, fibrosis, and oxidative stress production, respectively. Losartan (Los, an anti-hypertensive drug)-treated rats also exhibited similar gene expression, implying that PGBR may reduce hypertension using the same downstream target as Los. Our data also indicated that PGBR reduced cardiac lesions, such as the cardiomyopathy induced by L-NAME. This is the first report on the anti-hypertensive effects of PGBR in vivo by the suppression of the renin response, fibrosis, and improved cardiac structure.

Experimental and Molecular Modeling Studies on the Complexation of Chromium(III) with the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Captopril

Captopril (CPT) is an inhibitor of angiotensin I converting enzyme, used as a medication for the treatment of people with high blood pressure, renal insufficiency, and cardiovascular diseases. It inhibits the angiogenesis process, vasoconstriction, and tumor metastasis. Some metal-captopril complexes exhibit antimicrobial activities. In the current work, the formation of the Cr^III-CPT complex was studied spectrophotometrically and potentiometrically in aqueous solution. Kinetics of Cr^III-CPT complex formation was spectrophotometrically studied over the pH range 3.20-4.20, at an ionic strength of 0.3 M at 30-50 °C. Cr^III-CPT complex formation was potentiometrically studied at 25 °C, where ligand protonation constants and complexes' overall stability constants were calculated. UV-vis absorption spectra were executed to confirm the complex formation. Density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulation were performed to search the geometries of the Cr^III-CPT complex. Atoms in molecules and interaction region indicator calculations are used to investigate intermolecular interactions for the formation of Cr^III-CPT complex. The antimicrobial activity of the CPT ligand and Cr^III-CPT complex on the prevention and control of environmental pathogenic bacteria, as tested on both Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) via agar disc diffusion method, assess the ability to use as an antimicrobial agent. CPT had shown good antimicrobial activity against both types of bacteria, which had increased slightly the zone of inhibition in Cr-CPT that indicates the increased efficacy due to Cr(III) antimicrobial activity via its oxidative damage to the bacterial cell wall. No previous study tested the CPT antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive ones such as S. aureus.

L-Carnitine reduces reactive oxygen species/endoplasmic reticulum stress and maintains mitochondrial function during autophagy-mediated cell apoptosis in perfluorooctanesulfonate-treated renal tubular cells

We previously reported that perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) causes autophagy-induced apoptosis in renal tubular cells (RTCs) through a mechanism dependent on reactive oxygen species (ROS)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase. This study extended our findings and determined the therapeutic potency of l-Carnitine in PFOS-treated RTCs. l-Carnitine (10 mM) reversed the effects of PFOS (100 µM) on autophagy induction and impaired autophagy flux. Furthermore, it downregulated the protein level of p47Phox, which is partly related to PFOS-induced increased cytosolic ROS in RTCs. Moreover, l-Carnitine reduced ROS production in mitochondria and restored PFOS-impeded mitochondrial function, leading to sustained normal adenosine triphosphate synthesis and oxygen consumption and reduced proton leakage in a Seahorse XF stress test. The increased inositol-requiring enzyme 1α expression by PFOS, which indicated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress activation, was associated with PFOS-mediated autophagy activation that could be attenuated through 4-phenylbutyrate (5 mM, an ER stress inhibitor) and l-Carnitine pretreatment. Therefore, by reducing the level of IRE1α, l-Carnitine reduced the levels of Beclin and LC3BII, consequently reducing the level of apoptotic biomarkers including Bax and cleaving PARP and caspase 3. Collectively, these results indicate that through the elimination of oxidative stress, extracellular signal–regulated kinase activation, and ER stress, l-Carnitine reduced cell autophagy/apoptosis and concomitantly increased cell viability in RTCs. This study clarified the potential mechanism of PFOS-mediated RTC apoptosis and provided a new strategy for using l-Carnitine to prevent and treat PFOS-induced RTC apoptosis.

Antihypertensive effect of rapeseed peptides and their potential in improving the effectiveness of captopril

BACKGROUND

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and antihypertensive activity of rapeseed peptides and to investigate their potential synergy with captopril.

RESULTS

The peptides were nontoxic with the maximum tolerated dose exceeding 25 g kg^-1 BW d^-1 for mice and they had angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ value of 1.27 mg mL^-1 . Rapeseed peptides did not have a synergistic effect with captopril on inhibiting ACE activity in simulated digestion tests in vitro. But in vivo they could synergistically augment the amplitude range of lowering blood pressure with captopril by approximately 9% and prolong the antihypertensive effect duration time by over 20% in antihypertension tests of spontaneously hypertensive rats. In addition, the inhibiting effect of rapeseed peptides on ACE activity was noticeable in some rat organs in vivo. Nevertheless, when compared to captopril group, the potential synergy of rapeseed peptides with captopril did not cause a further decrease in ACE activity in the organs but their synergy further improved levels of NO (12.7%) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (74.1%) in rat serum. Further studies of some peptides identified from rapeseed peptides showed that some of the rapeseed peptides (Cys-Leu, Val-Ala-Pro) could markedly increase contents of NO and endothelial nitric oxide synthase.

CONCLUSIONS

Rapeseed peptides have antihypertensive activity and they showed potential synergy with captopril in antihypertensive performance in vivo. The synergy was not from ACE inhibition but from other pathways, like improvement in endogenous vasodilator contents. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Antihypertensive Effects of the Vitex cienkowskii (Verbenaceae) Stem-Bark Extract on L-NAME-Induced Hypertensive Rats

Vitex cienkowskii stem-bark is used in Cameroonian traditional medicine to treat cardiovascular diseases including hypertension. In previous studies, the methanol/methylene chloride stem-bark extract of Vitex cienkowskii (MMVC) showed a preventive activity in L-NAME-induced hypertension and improved blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats. The present study investigated the curative effects in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats (LNHR). Hypertension was induced in rats by oral administration of L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day) for 28 days. The animals were divided into 2 groups: one group of 5 rats receiving distilled water (10 ml/kg) and another 20 rats receiving L-NAME. At the end of 4 weeks of administration of L-NAME, the animals were divided into 4 groups of 5 rats each: one group of hypertensive rats receiving distilled water, another one receiving captopril (25 mg/kg), and two groups of hypertensive rats receiving MMVC at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Body weight, food, and water intake were measured weekly. At the end of the treatment, blood pressure and heart rate were recorded by invasive method. Whole heart, left ventricle, kidneys, and liver were weighed. The effects of plant extract on lipid profile and oxidative stress markers, as well as markers of hepatic and renal functions were assessed spectrophotometrically according to well described protocols. Results show that L-NAME significantly increases the mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), atherogenic index, lipid profile, and creatinine and transaminase activities of normotensive rats. MMVC significantly reduced the blood pressure in LNHR. Body weight, food and water intake, left ventricular hypertrophy, antioxidant level, renal and hepatic markers, and lipid profile were improved by the treatment with MMVC. The curative effect of MMVC on L-NAME-induced hypertension is probably related to its antihypertensive, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant properties. These results confirmed the use of Vitex cienkowskii for the treatment of hypertension in traditional medicine.

Effect of Aqueous Extract of Adansonia digitata Stem Bark on the Development of Hypertension in L-NAME-Induced Hypertensive Rat Model

BACKGROUND

Adansonia digitata is a plant used against cardiovascular disorders in African folk medicine. We assessed the effects of the aqueous extract of its stem bark on the development of hypertension in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats.

METHODS

The animals were administered L-NAME once daily for 3 weeks (25 mg/kg, i.p.), concomitantly with aqueous extract of A. digitata stem bark (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) or captopril (20 mg/kg, p.o.). Then, hemodynamic and electrocardiographic parameters, oxidative stress markers, and the lipid profile were assessed in the blood and heart, aorta, and kidney homogenates, and histopathological analyses were performed.

RESULTS

L-NAME-induced hypertensive control animals, but not the animals concomitantly treated with A. digitata extract, displayed increases in the mean arterial blood pressure (21.64% difference, p < 0.001, vs. dose 200 mg/kg), systolic arterial blood pressure (21.33%, p < 0.001), and the diastolic arterial blood pressure (21.84%, p < 0.001). In addition, hypertensive control animals displayed (i) increases in serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, and creatinine levels, malondialdehyde and transaminase activities, and atherogenic index; (ii) decreases in serum HDL, catalase, reduced glutathione, and nitric oxide; and (iii) aorta wall thickening, inflammatory cell infiltration, and cell loss in the cardiac muscle and renal tissues. As captopril, the extract prevented hypertension-like changes in lipid profile, cardiac, hepatic, and renal affection indicators, and oxidative stress markers.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the extract of A. digitata has antihypertensive and antioxidant effects in L-NAME-induced hypertension rat models. These effects partly justify the traditional medicine use against cardiovascular disorders.

Tangeretin mitigates l-NAME-induced ventricular dysfunction and remodeling through the AT1R/pERK1/2/pJNK signaling pathway in rats

Tangeretin alleviates ventricular alterations in l-NAME hypertensive rats.

The milk macromolecular peptide: preparation and evaluation of antihypertensive activity in rats

In order to avoid the discomfort of digesting milk protein and make full use of the gastrointestinal digestive function, a milk macromolecular peptide was prepared with ACE inhibitory activity after gastrointestinal digestion as the index.

Where Metabolism Meets Senescence: Focus on Endothelial Cells

Despite the decline in their proliferative potential, senescent cells display a high metabolic activity. Senescent cells have been shown to acquire a more glycolytic state even in presence of high oxygen levels, in a way similar to cancer cells. The diversion of pyruvate, the final product of glycolysis, away from oxidative phosphorylation results in an altered bioenergetic state and may occur as a response to the enhanced oxidative stress caused by the accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria. This metabolic shift leads to increased AMP/ATP and ADP/ATP ratios, to the subsequent AMPK activation, and ultimately to p53-mediated growth arrest. Mounting evidences suggest that metabolic reprogramming is critical to direct considerable amounts of energy toward specific activities related to the senescent state, including the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and the modulation of immune responses within senescent cell tissue microenvironment. Interestingly, despite the relative abundance of oxygen in the vascular compartment, healthy endothelial cells (ECs) produce most of their ATP content from the anaerobic conversion of glucose to lactate. Their high glycolytic rate further increases during senescence. Alterations in EC metabolism have been identified in age-related diseases (ARDs) associated with a dysfunctional vasculature, including atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. In particular, higher production of reactive oxygen species deriving from a variety of enzymatic sources, including uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase and the electron transport chain, causes DNA damage and activates the NAD+-consuming enzymes polyADP-ribose polymerase 1 (PARP1). These non-physiological mechanisms drive the impairment of the glycolytic flux and the diversion of glycolytic intermediates into many pathological pathways. Of note, accumulation of senescent ECs has been reported in the context of ARDs. Through their pro-oxidant, pro-inflammatory, vasoconstrictor, and prothrombotic activities, they negatively impact on vascular physiology, promoting both the onset and development of ARDs. Here, we review the current knowledge on the cellular senescence-related metabolic changes and their contribution to the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of ARDs, with a particular focus on ECs. Moreover, current and potential interventions aimed at modulating EC metabolism, in order to prevent or delay ARD onset, will be discussed.

The effect of L-carnitine on inflammatory mediators: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

AIM AND BACKGROUND

Reducing inflammation by nutritional supplements may help to reduce the risk of many chronic diseases. Our aim in this meta-analysis was to determine the effect of L-carnitine on inflammatory mediators including C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6).

METHODS

Our systematic search to find relevant randomized clinical trials (RCTs) was performed up to October 2018 using ISI Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed/Medline, and SCOPUS. In this meta-analysis, the weighted mean differences (WMD) with standard errors (SE) were used to pool the data. WMD was calculated by subtracting change-from-baseline mean values in the control group from change-from-baseline mean values in the intervention group in each study. To identify heterogeneity among studies, the I² statistic was employed. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (No. CRD42019116695).

RESULTS

Thirteen articles were included in our systematic review and meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that L-carnitine supplementation was significantly associated with lower levels of CRP in comparison to controls (WMD = -1.23 mg/L; 95% CI: -1.73, -0.72 mg/dL; P < 0.0001). Also, a slight but statistically significant decrease was observed in IL-6 and TNF-α levels (WMD = -0.85 pg/dL; 95% CI: -1.38, -0.32 pg/dL; P = 0.002 and WMD = -0.37 pg/dL; 95% CI: -0.68, -0.06 pg/dL; P = 0.018, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that L-carnitine reduced inflammatory mediators, especially in studies with a duration of more than 12 weeks. Further studies with different doses and intervention durations and separately in men and women are necessary.

Dysregulation of the Renin-Angiotensin System and the Vasopressinergic System Interactions in Cardiovascular Disorders

Purpose of Review

In many instances, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and the vasopressinergic system (VPS) are jointly activated by the same stimuli and engaged in the regulation of the same processes.

Recent Findings

Angiotensin II (Ang II) and arginine vasopressin (AVP), which are the main active compounds of the RAS and the VPS, interact at several levels. Firstly, Ang II, acting on AT1 receptors (AT1R), plays a significant role in the release of AVP from vasopressinergic neurons and AVP, stimulating V1a receptors (V1aR), regulates the release of renin in the kidney. Secondly, Ang II and AVP, acting on AT1R and V1aR, respectively, exert vasoconstriction, increase cardiac contractility, stimulate the sympathoadrenal system, and elevate blood pressure. At the same time, they act antagonistically in the regulation of blood pressure by baroreflex. Thirdly, the cooperative action of Ang II acting on AT1R and AVP stimulating both V1aR and V2 receptors in the kidney is necessary for the appropriate regulation of renal blood flow and the efficient resorption of sodium and water. Furthermore, both peptides enhance the release of aldosterone and potentiate its action in the renal tubules.

Summary

In this review, we (1) point attention to the role of the cooperative action of Ang II and AVP for the regulation of blood pressure and the water-electrolyte balance under physiological conditions, (2) present the subcellular mechanisms underlying interactions of these two peptides, and (3) provide evidence that dysregulation of the cooperative action of Ang II and AVP significantly contributes to the development of disturbances in the regulation of blood pressure and the water-electrolyte balance in cardiovascular diseases.

Systemic Evaluation of Vascular Dysfunction by High-Resolution Sonography in an Nω -Nitro-l-Arginine Methyl Ester Hydrochloride-Induced Mouse Model of Preeclampsia-Like Symptoms

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate vascular function, including arterial resistance and endothelial function, by high-resolution sonography in an N_ω -nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (l-NAME)-induced mouse model of preeclampsia-like symptoms.

METHODS

Pregnant mice were subcutaneously injected with a saline solution (control; n = 10) or l-NAME (n = 10) between the 7th and 18th days of gestation. The resistive index and pulsatility index (RI and PI, indicators of arterial resistance) of the uteroplacental, umbilical, femoral, and common carotid arteries and the flow-mediated dilatation (index of endothelial function) of the femoral artery were measured by high-frequency sonography in both groups.

RESULTS

We noted significant increases in the RI and PI of the uteroplacental and umbilical arteries and a decrease in the flow-mediated dilatation of the femoral artery in the l-NAME group compared with the control group. We also found that the RI and PI of the uteroplacental and umbilical arteries were negatively correlated with fetal weight and crown-rump length. The results of the multivariate analysis using a logistic regression model indicated that the flow-mediated dilatation at 120 seconds was an independent diagnostic criterion for the l-NAME-induced preeclampsia-like model. A receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that flow-mediated dilatation at 120 seconds had the greatest area under the curve of 0.934, with an optimal cutoff point of 11.1%, yielding sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 84.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

The PI and RI of the fetomaternal vasculature can identify fetuses in "high-risk" pregnancies, and flow-mediated dilatation is a reliable indicator for predicting preeclampsia. Assessment of vascular function by high-resolution sonography provides a useful platform for preeclampsia-related basic research with high reproducibility.

Protective effects of tannic acid on pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and underlying mechanisms in rats

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the cardioprotective effects and latent mechanism of tannic acid (TA) on cardiac hypertrophy.

Methods

Abdominal aortic banding (AAB) was used to induce pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy in male Wistar rats, sham-operated rats served as controls. AAB rats were treated with TA (20 and 40 mg/kg) or captoril.

Key findings

Abdominal aortic banding rats that received TA showed ameliorated pathological changes in cardiac morphology and coefficients, decreased cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, a reduction in over expressions of angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R), angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R), phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) mRNA, and modified expression of matrix metal proteinase-9 (MMP-9) mRNA in AAB rat hearts. Furthermore, TA treatment contributed to a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) activities and content, while it caused an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), nitric oxide (NO) and endothelial NO synthase (e-NOS). Furthermore, TA downregulated expression of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), bax, caspase-3 and upregulated expression of bcl-2.

Conclusions

Tannic acid displayed obvious suppression of AAB-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rats. The cardioprotective effects of TA may be attributed to multitargeted inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis and apoptosis in addition to an increase in NO levels, decrease in ET-1 levels, and downregulation of angiotensin receptors and the phosphorylation of ERK1/2.

The potential of stimulating nitric oxide formation in the treatment of hypertension

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A major pathophysiological factor contributing to hypertension is reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Strategies to address this pathophysiological mechanism could offer significant advantages. Areas covered: In this review we aimed at examining a variety of drugs (statins, beta-adrenergic receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II type-1 receptor blockers) used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases, particularly with respect to their potential of increasing NO bioavailability and activity in the cardiovascular system. There is now evidence supporting the notion that many cardiovascular drugs activate NO signaling or enhance NO bioavailability as a contributing mechanism to their beneficial cardiovascular effects. Moreover, other drugs may attenuate NO inactivation by superoxide and other reactive oxygen species by exerting antioxidant effects. More recently, the NO oxidation products nitrite and nitrate have been acknowledged as sources of NO after recycling back to NO. Activation of the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway is an alternate pathway that may generate NO from both anions and exert antihypertensive effects. Expert opinion: In this review, we provide an overview of the possible mechanisms by which these drugs enhance NO bioavailability and help in the therapy of hypertension.

L-carnitine reduces acute lung injury in experimental biliary obstruction

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the protective effects of L-carnitine (LC) on lungs in an experimental obstructive jaundice (OJ) model.

METHODS

This was conducted for 2 months between May 2011 and July 2011 at Suleyman Demirel University School of Medicine Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Isparta, Turkey. Thirty-eight Wistar-Albino rats with an average weight of 250-300 g were divided into 3 groups of control, OJ, and OJ + L-carnitine treatment (LCT). L-carnitine was injected intravenously into the tail vein at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 10 days to the LCT group. Animals were sacrificed 10 days later. Enzyme levels were measured in the lung tissue; malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase (MPO), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase, and superoxide dismutase. Tumor necrosis factor-alfa, interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, and C-reactive protein levels were studied in plasma samples. Histopathological changes in the lungs were examined. 

RESULTS

There was a decreased in GSH-Px, MPO, and IL-8 levels (p less than 0.05) in the LCT group. The histopathological examination showed that neutrophil leukocyte infiltration and edema formation decreased and destruction of lung parenchyma disappeared following the treatment with LC (p less than 0.05). 

CONCLUSION

L-carnitine has a protective effect against lung damage due to experimental obstructive jaundice, possibly by altering anticytokine and antioxidant activity, and by decreasing the neutrophil migration.

Screening of Free Carnitine and Acylcarnitine Status in Children With Familial Mediterranean Fever

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to demonstrate the patterns of free carnitine (FC) and acylcarnitine (AC) esters in familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 205 patients (106 males, 99 females; mean age 131.3±52.1 months; range 24 to 254 months) with FMF and 50 healthy controls (27 males, 23 females; mean age 125.7±49.6 months; range 32 to 217 months) were enrolled. Fasting dried blood samples were taken for showing FC and AC ester levels with tandem mass spectrometry from both patients and controls.

RESULTS

Screening of AC profile revealed increased FC, 3-hydroxypalmitoylcarnitine (C16-OH), and 3-Hydroxy octadecanoylcarnitine (C18:2-OH) carnitine levels, while decreased acetyl-carnitine (C2), propionyl-carnitine (C3), butyryl-carnitine (C4), tiglyl-carnitine (C5:1), hexanoyl-carnitine (C6), octanoyl-carnitine (C8), decenoylcarnitine (C10:1), decadienoylcarnitine (C10:2), malonylcarnitine (C3DC), methylmalonylcarnitine (C4DC), glutarylcarnitine (C5DC), hexadecenoylcarnitine (C16:1), 3-Hydroxy butyrylcarnitine (C4-OH), and 3-Hydroxy oleylcarnitine (C18:1-OH) carnitine levels in FMF patients compared to controls. Total AC levels (p<0.001) and AC to FC ratio (p<0.001) were also lower in FMF patients than the controls.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we were able to detect some of the AC profile variations in FMF patients; however, usage of carnitine in all patients with FMF is not recommended since we were not able to demonstrate secondary carnitine deficiency in FMF patients of this study.

Effects of L-carnitine against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in grass carp ovary cells (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)

This study was designed in vitro to investigate the effects of L-carnitine against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in a grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) ovary cell line (GCO). GCO cells were pre-treated with different concentrations of L-carnitine, followed by incubation with 2.5 mM H2O2 for 1 h to induce oxidative damage. The results indicated that adding L-carnitine at concentrations of 0.01-1 mM into the medium for 12 h significantly increased cell viability. Pre-treatment with L-carnitine at concentrations of 0.1-5 mM for 12 h significantly inhibited 2.5 mM H2O2-induced cell viability loss. The significant decreases in the level of reactive oxygen species and cell apoptosis were observed in 0.5 mM L-carnitine group compared to the H2O2 group. Malondialdehyde values of all of the L-carnitine groups were significantly lower than those of the H2O2 group, while total glutathione levels of all of the L-carnitine groups were significantly higher than of the H2O2 group. The activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as total superoxide dismutase (0.1 and 0.5 mM L-carnitine), catalase (0.5 mM L-carnitine) and γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase (0.5 and 1 mM L-carnitine), was significantly increased. In addition, pre-treatment of L-carnitine in GCO cells exposed to 2.5 mM H2O2 significantly increased the mRNA expression of copper, zinc superoxide dismutase, catalase (0.5 mM L-carnitine), glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (0.1-1 mM) and glutathione peroxidase (0.1 mM L-carnitine). In conclusion, L-carnitine promotes GCO cell growth and improves antioxidant function, it plays a protective role against oxidative stress induced by H2O2 in GCO cells, and the appropriate supplemental amount of L-carnitine is 0.1-1 mM.

Perfluorooctanesulfonate Mediates Renal Tubular Cell Apoptosis through PPARgamma Inactivation

Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) are ubiquitously distributed in the environments including stainless pan-coating, raincoat, fire extinguisher, and semiconductor products. The PPAR family has been shown to contribute to the toxic effects of PFCs in thymus, immune and excretory systems. Herein, we demonstrated that perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) caused cell apoptosis through increasing ratio of Bcl-xS/xL, cytosolic cytochrome C, and caspase 3 activation in renal tubular cells (RTCs). In addition, PFOS increased transcription of inflammatory cytokines (i.e., TNFα, ICAM1, and MCP1) by NFκB activation. Conversely, PFOS reduced the mRNA levels of antioxidative enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase, as a result of reduced PPARγ transactivational activity by using reporter and chromatin immuoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. PFOS reduced the protein interaction between PPARγ and PPARγ coactivator-1 alpha (PGC1α) by PPARγ deacetylation through Sirt1 upregulation, of which the binding of PPARγ and PGC1α to a peroxisome proliferator response element (PPRE) in the promoter regions of these antioxidative enzymes was alleviated in the ChIP assay. Furthermore, Sirt1 also deacetylated p53 and then increased the binding of p53 to Bax, resulting in increased cytosolic cytochrome C. The effect of PPARγ inactivation by PFOS was validated using the PPARγ antagonist GW9662, whereas the adverse effects of PFOS were prevented by PPARγ overexpression and activators, rosiglitozone and L-carnitine, in RTCs. The in vitro finding of protective effect of L-carnitine was substantiated in vivo using Balb/c mice model subjected to PFOS challenge. Altogether, we provide in vivo and in vitro evidence for the protective mechanism of L-carnitine in eliminating PFOS-mediated renal injury, at least partially, through PPARγ activation.

Inflammatory and fibrotic processes are involved in the cardiotoxic effect of sunitinib: Protective role of L-carnitine

Sunitinib (Su) is currently approved for treatment of several malignances. However, along with the benefits of disease stabilization, cardiovascular toxicities have also been increasingly recognized. The aim of this study was to analyze which mechanisms are involved in the cardiotoxicity caused by Su, as well as to explore the potential cardioprotective effects of l-carnitine (LC). To this end, four groups of Wistar rats were used: (1) control; (2) rats treated with 400mg LC/kg/day; (3) rats treated with 25mg Su/kg/day; and (4) rats treated with LC+Su simultaneously. In addition, cultured rat cardiomyocytes were treated with an inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), in order to examine the role of this transcription factor in this process. An elevation in the myocardial expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, together with an increase in the mRNA expression of NF-κB, was observed in Su-treated rats. These results were accompanied by an increase in the expression of pro-fibrotic factors, nitrotyrosine and NOX 2 subunit of NADPH oxidase; and by a decrease in that of collagen degradation factor. Higher blood pressure and heart rate levels were also found in Su-treated rats. All these alterations were inhibited by co-administration of LC. Furthermore, cardiotoxic effects of Su were blocked by NF-κB inhibition. Our results suggest that: (i) inflammatory and fibrotic processes are involved in the cardiac toxicity observed following treatment with Su; (ii) these processes might be mediated by the transcription factor NF-κB; (iii) LC exerts a protective effect against arterial hypertension, cardiac inflammation and fibrosis, which are all observed after Su treatment.

Antiinflammatory effects of L-carnitine supplementation (1000 mg/d) in coronary artery disease patients

OBJECTIVE

Inflammation mediators have been recognized as risk factors for the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of L-carnitine supplementation (LC, 1000 mg/d) on inflammation markers in patients with CAD.

METHODS

We enrolled 47 patients with CAD in the study. The patients with CAD were identified by cardiac catheterization as having <50% stenosis of one major coronary artery. The patients were randomly assigned to the placebo (n = 24) and LC (n = 23) groups and the intervention was administered for 12 wk. The levels of LC, antioxidant status (malondialdehyde and antioxidant enzymes activities), and inflammation markers (C-reactive protein [CRP], interleukin [IL]-6, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) were measured.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine participants completed the study (19 placebo; 20 LC). After LC supplementation, the levels of inflammation markers were significantly reduced compared with the baseline (CRP, P < 0.01; IL-6, P = 0.03; TNF-α, P = 0.07) and those in the placebo group (CRP, P < 0.05; IL-6, P = 0.04; TNF-α, P = 0.03). The levels of inflammation markers were significantly negatively correlated with the levels of LC and antioxidant enzymes activities (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that LC supplementation, due to its antioxidant effects, may have potential utility to reduce inflammation in CAD.

Effects of Tulbaghia violacea Harv. (Alliaceae) rhizome methanolic extract on kidney function and morphology in Dahl salt-sensitive rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tulbaghia violacea has been used traditionally for the treatment of several ailments, including hypertension. The herb has been shown to have antihypertensive properties which have been attributed to its angiotensin-converting enzymeinhibitory (ACEI) activity. It could, therefore, prove beneficial in ameliorating renal pathology associated with hypertension. To evaluate the effects of long-term administration of Tulbaghia violacea on renal function and morphology in the Dahl salt-sensitive (DSS) rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male DSS rats were treated intra-peritoneally (i.p.) as follows: methanolic extract of Tulbaghia violacea: (TVL) (50 mg/kg/b.w.), captopril: (CAP) (25 mg/kg/b.w.), or distilled water, control: (CON) (3 ml/kg/b.w.). Blood pressure (BP) was measured bi-weekly, whilst 24-h urine volumes and electrolyte concentrations were assessed weekly. Animals were sacrificed on day 49 by halothane overdose. Blood was removed for determination of plasma and serum electrolytes. Left kidney tissues were harvested for the determination of nuclear factor-kappaβ (NF-kβ) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) gene expressions.

RESULTS

TVL significantly reduced mean arterial pressure (MAP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). TVL showed reduced blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, total protein in urine as well as increased serum total protein. TVL decreased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and increased glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and nitric oxide significantly. NF-kβ and TGF-β) gene expressions were significantly reduced in TVL and CAP treated rats. Moreover, renal morphology improved significantly in TVL and CAP treated animals.

CONCLUSION

TVL and CAP demonstrated marked improvement in renal function and morphology.

L-carnitine protects against carboplatin-mediated renal injury: AMPK- and PPARα-dependent inactivation of NFAT3

We have previously shown that carboplatin induces inflammation and apoptosis in renal tubular cells (RTCs) through the activation of the nuclear factor of activated T cells-3 (NFAT3) protein by reactive oxygen species (ROS), and that the ROS-mediated activation of NFAT3 is prevented by N-acetyl cysteine and heme oxygenase-1 treatment. In the current study, we investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms of the protective effect of L-carnitine on carboplatin-mediated renal injury. Balb/c mice and RTCs were used as model systems. Carboplatin-induced apoptosis in RTCs was examined using terminal-deoxynucleotidyl-transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling. We evaluated the effects of the overexpression of the peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) protein, the knockdown of PPARα gene, and the blockade of AMPK activation and PPARα to investigate the underlying mechanisms of the protective effect of L-carnitine on carboplatin-mediated renal injury. Carboplatin reduced the nuclear translocation, phosphorylation, and peroxisome proliferator responsive element transactivational activity of PPARα. These carboplatin-mediated effects were prevented by L-carnitine through a mechanism dependent on AMPK phosphorylation and subsequent PPARα activation. The activation of PPARα induced cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and prostacyclin (PGI2) synthase expression that formed a positive feedback loop to further activate PPARα. The coimmunoprecipitation of the nuclear factor (NF) κB proteins increased following the induction of PPARα by L-carnitine, which reduced NFκB transactivational activity and cytokine expression. The in vivo study showed that the inactivation of AMPK suppressed the protective effect of L-carnitine in carboplatin-treated mice, indicating that AMPK phosphorylation is required for PPARα activation in the L-carnitine-mediated protection of RTC apoptosis caused by carboplatin. The results of our study provide molecular evidence that L-carnitine prevents carboplatin-mediated apoptosis through AMPK-mediated PPARα activation.

Carnitine for prevention of antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity: a randomized, clinical trial

BACKGROUND AND AIM

In the present study, the potential benefits of oral carnitine in preventing antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity (ATDH) were evaluated.

METHODS

Fifty-four patients in the carnitine and 62 patients in the placebo group completed the study. The carnitine group received 1000 mg oral carnitine solution twice daily for 4 weeks. The placebo group received 10 mL of oral placebo solution twice daily for 4 weeks. ATDH was defined as an increase in the serum level of aspartate aminotransferase or alanine aminotransferase greater than three or five times of the upper limit of normal with or without clinical symptoms of hepatotoxicity, respectively.

RESULTS

During the study period, 29 (25%) patients experienced ATDH. Among these patients, nine (16.7%) and 20 (32.3%) were in the carnitine and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.049). Based on multivariate logistic regression model, age over 35 years old (odds ratio [OR] = 7.01, P = 0.002), human immunodeficiency virus infection (OR = 40.4, P < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (OR = 37.6, P = 0.001), and placebo treatment (OR = 0.1, P = 0.01) were identified as predisposing factors for ATDH.

CONCLUSION

Results of our preliminary clinical trial suggested that cotreatment with 2000 mg oral L-carnitine solution daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased the rate of ATDH.

L-carnitine attenuates the development of kidney fibrosis in hypertensive rats by upregulating PPAR-γ

BACKGROUND

The development of renal fibrosis is a consequence of arterial hypertension. L-carnitine plays an essential role in the β-oxidation of fatty acids, and we have previously demonstrated hypotensive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of L-carnitine in arterial hypertension. This work aims to analyze the effect of L-carnitine on renal fibrosis and to explore the participation of peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)-γ in this effect.

METHODS

Four groups or rats were used: control, treated with L-carnitine, treated with L-NAME, and treated with L-carnitine + L-NAME. Cultured rat kidney cells were also used to examine the role of PPAR-γ in L-carnitine effect.

RESULTS

An increase in the expression of collagen, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), Nox2, and Nox4 was found in the kidney of L-NAME-treated rats. Hypertensive rats presented with an expansion of renal fibrotic areas, which was also accompanied by overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6. A reduction in the expression of PPAR-γ and in that of anti-inflammatory IL-10 was found in the kidney of these rats. Simultaneous treatment with L-carnitine attenuated the renal fibrosis (which correlated with a reduction of plasma TGF-β1 levels) and the pro-oxidative and proinflammatory status reported in L-NAME groups, with a concomitant increase in the expression of PPAR-γ. Furthermore, the antifibrotic effect of L-carnitine could be blocked by PPAR-γ inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the efficacy of L-carnitine against hypertension-associated renal fibrosis from in vivo and in vitro studies and suggests that the L-carnitine effect occurs in a PPAR-γ-dependent manner.

The role of nutrition and nutraceutical supplements in the treatment of hypertension

Vascular biology, endothelial and vascular smooth muscle and cardiac dysfunction play a primary role in the initiation and perpetuation of hypertension, cardiovascular disease and target organ damage. Nutrient-gene interactions and epigenetics are predominant factors in promoting beneficial or detrimental effects in cardiovascular health and hypertension. Macronutrients and micronutrients can prevent, control and treat hypertension through numerous mechanisms related to vascular biology. Oxidative stress, inflammation and autoimmune dysfunction initiate and propagate hypertension and cardiovascular disease. There is a role for the selected use of single and component nutraceutical supplements, vitamins, antioxidants and minerals in the treatment of hypertension based on scientifically controlled studies which complement optimal nutrition, coupled with other lifestyle modifications.

L-carnitine supplementation as a potential antioxidant therapy for inherited neurometabolic disorders

In recent years increasing evidence has emerged suggesting that oxidative stress is involved in the pathophysiology of a number of inherited metabolic disorders. However the clinical use of classical antioxidants in these diseases has been poorly evaluated and so far no benefit has been demonstrated. l-Carnitine is an endogenous substance that acts as a carrier for fatty acids across the inner mitochondrial membrane necessary for subsequent beta-oxidation and ATP production. Besides its important role in the metabolism of lipids, l-carnitine is also a potent antioxidant (free radical scavenger) and thus may protect tissues from oxidative damage. This review addresses recent findings obtained from patients with some inherited neurometabolic diseases showing that l-carnitine may be involved in the reduction of oxidative damage observed in these disorders. For some of these diseases, reduced concentrations of l-carnitine may occur due to the combination of this compound to the accumulating toxic metabolites, especially organic acids, or as a result of protein restricted diets. Thus, l-carnitine supplementation may be useful not only to prevent tissue deficiency of this element, but also to avoid oxidative damage secondary to increased production of reactive species in these diseases. Considering the ability of l-carnitine to easily cross the blood-brain barrier, l-carnitine supplementation may also be beneficial in preventing neurological damage derived from oxidative injury. However further studies are required to better explore this potential.

The protective role of l-carnitine against cylindrospermopsin-induced oxidative stress in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Cylindrospermopsin (CYN) is one of the most important cyanotoxins in terms of both human health and environmental quality and is produced by several different species of cyanobacteria, including Aphanizomenon ovalisporum. The principal mechanisms of action of CYN involve inhibition of protein and glutathione synthesis. In addition, CYN-mediated genotoxicity results from DNA fragmentation. The results of both in vivo and in vitro studies suggest that oxidative stress also plays a significant role in CYN pathogenesis in fish. We investigated the protective effects of l-carnitine (LC) pre-treatment on A. ovalisporum-induced oxidative stress in cells containing CYN and deoxy-CYN, or pure standard CYN, in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) that had been acutely exposed via oral administration. Various oxidative stress markers, including lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein oxidation, DNA oxidation, and the ratio of reduced glutathione to oxidised glutathione (GSH/GSSG), and the activities of NADPH oxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and gamma-glutamyl-cysteine synthetase (γ-GCS), were evaluated in the livers and kidneys of fish in the absence and presence of 400 or 880mgLC/kgfish/day during a 21 day period prior to CYN-intoxication. The results of our study demonstrated for the first time the beneficial antioxidant effects of LC dietary supplementation on oxidative stress status in fish. No pro-oxidant effects were detected at any of the LC doses assayed, suggesting that LC is a chemoprotectant that reduces hepatic and renal oxidative stress and may be effective when used for the prophylaxis and treatment of CYN-related intoxication in fish.

L-Carnitine protects against arterial hypertension-related cardiac fibrosis through modulation of PPAR-γ expression

Cardiac fibrosis is a pathogenic factor in a variety of cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix protein that leads to cardiac dysfunction. l-Carnitine (LC) plays an essential role in the β-oxidation of long-chain fatty acids in lipid metabolism. We have previously demonstrated the beneficial effects of LC in hypertensive rats. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of LC on arterial hypertension-associated cardiac fibrosis and to explore the mechanisms of LC action. To this end, four groups of rats were used: Wistar (control), rats treated with 400mg/kg/day of LC, rats treated with 25mg/kg/day of l-NAME (to induce hypertension), and rats treated with LC+l-NAME simultaneously. We found an elevation in the myocardial expression of profibrotic factors (TGF-β1 and CTGF), types I and III of collagen, and NADPH oxidase subunits (NOX2 and NOX4), in hypertensive rats when compared with normotensive ones. In addition, an increase in myocardial fibrosis was also found in the l-NAME group. These results were accompanied by a down-regulation of PPAR-γ in the heart of hypertensive animals. When hypertensive rats were treated with LC, all these alterations were reversed. Moreover, a significant negative correlation was observed between myocardial interstitial fibrosis and mRNA expression of PPAR-γ. In conclusion, the reduction of cardiac fibrosis and the down-regulation of NOX2, NOX4, TGF-β1 and CTGF induced by LC might be, at least in part, mediated by an upregulation of PPAR-γ, which leads to a reduction on hypertension-related cardiac fibrosis.

Age-related changes in an antioxidant defense system in elderly patients with essential hypertension compared with healthy controls

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Oxidative stress has been reported to increase with aging. Oxidative stress is also associated with hypertension, and antioxidant treatment has been shown to enhance antioxidant defense system. We therefore aimed to analyze the relationship between aging and some markers of oxidative stress in elderly patients with essential hypertension compared with healthy controls.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Blood was collected from 18 patients with essential hypertension and 21 age- and sex-matched healthy controls aged over 65. Patients were on their usual medications while participating in the study. Oxidative stress parameters were investigated by measuring the concentration of glutathione (GSH) in whole blood and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx-1), glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT), and Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase (CuZn SOD, SOD-1) in erythrocytes. GSH, GPx-1, GR, CAT, and CuZn SOD correlations with age were expressed as Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient r. Independent-samples T test was used to compare mean values of parameters between groups.

RESULTS

(1) Among all parameters analyzed herein, the activity of SOD-1 showed the most explicit decrease in relation to age, both in healthy controls and hypertensive subjects with r values of -0.54 (P = 0.05) and -0.68 (P < 0.01), respectively. (2) Age-related changes in parameters of oxidative stress did not differ significantly between groups. (3) Mean activity of SOD-1 was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in elderly hypertensives (2341.7 ± 213.71 U/g Hb) when compared with healthy controls (2199.7 ± 213.66 U/g Hb). (4) Mean GSH level was significantly higher (P < 0.01) in patients (3.1 ± 0.29 mmol/l) than in controls (2.8 ± 0.37 mmol/l). (5) Increased level of GSH in hypertension was followed by significantly (P < 0.01) higher activity of GR in this group when compared with controls (83.4 ± 15.25 and 64.1 ± 9.40 U/g Hb, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

(1) The antioxidant barrier changes in elderly subjects with senescence. (2) CuZn SOD activity is negatively correlated with age and this association is not altered by factors that modulate the enzyme activity, such as hypertension and antihypertensive treatment. (3) Significantly higher concentration of GSH and significantly higher GR activity in patients may suggest a significant role of GSH metabolism in the pathogenesis of hypertension, as well as its contribution to the effect of antihypertensive treatment.

Antihypertensive effects exerted by enalapril in mild to moderate hypertension are not associated with changes in the circulating levels of nitric oxide-related markers

PURPOSE

The antihypertensive effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) are explained, at least in part, by enhanced bradykinin-dependent nitric oxide (NO) formation and decreased angiotensin II-induced oxidative stress and vasoconstriction. We examined for the first time whether treatment with enalapril increases the plasma levels of markers of NO formation and decreases oxidative stress in mild to moderate hypertensive patients.

METHODS

Eighteen untreated hypertensive patients were treated with enalapril 10 mg/day (n=10) or 20 mg/day (n=8) for 60 days. Eighteen normotensive healthy controls were followed for the same period. Venous blood samples were collected at baseline and after 30/60 days of treatment with enalapril. Plasma NOx (nitrites + nitrates) concentrations were determined by using the Griess reaction. Plasma nitrite and whole blood nitrite concentrations were determined by using an ozone-based chemiluminescence assay. Plasma thiobarbituric acid-reactive species (TBARS) and 8-isoprostane concentrations were determined by a fluorimetric method and by ELISA, respectively.

RESULTS

Treatment with enalapril decreased blood pressure in hypertensive patients. However, we found no significant changes in plasma NOx, nitrite, whole blood nitrite, and in the levels of markers of oxidative stress in both normotensive controls and hypertensive patients treated with enalapril.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show that enalapril 10-20 mg/day does not affect the concentrations of relevant markers of NO formation or markers of oxidative stress in mild to moderately hypertensive subjects, despite satisfactory blood pressure control. Our findings do not rule out the possibility that ACEi may produce such effects in more severely hypertensive patients treated with higher doses of ACEi.

Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on activities of selected antioxidative enzymes and lipid peroxidation in hypertensive patients treated with indapamide. A pilot study

INTRODUCTION

An increase in oxidative stress is strongly documented in hypertensive patients. In blood vessels, oxidative stress increases the production of superoxide anion (O(2) (•-)) that reacts with nitric oxide (NO) and impairs the ability of endothelium to relax. Many reports indicate a beneficial effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ) in hypertension. Coenzyme Q10 therapy may lower O(2) (•-) and thus decrease the complications associated with hypertension. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of CoQ supplementation on antioxidative enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation in elderly hypertensive patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We determined the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD-1) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in erythrocytes of 27 elderly (mean age 72.5 ±6.1 year) hypertensive patients treated with indapamide at baseline and after 12 weeks of CoQ supplementation (60 mg twice a day) in comparison with 30 healthy elderly volunteers (mean age 76.8 ±8.5 year).

RESULTS

Decrease of SOD-1 (p < 0.001) and insignificant reduction of GSH-Px activities and increase of MDA (p < 0.001) level were observed in hypertensive patients in comparison to healthy volunteers before supplementation. Coenzyme Q10 administration resulted in a significant increase only in SOD-1 activity (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that CoQ improves the most important component of the antioxidant defence system - SOD-1, which is responsible for O(2) (•-) scavenging. Coenzyme Q10 may be used as an additional therapeutic agent for prophylaxis and treatment of hypertension in elderly patients.