Does increased oxidative stress cause hypertension?

The relationship between mid-upper arm circumference and blood pressure in Walter Sisulu University community

Prevalence of hypertension is increasing to higher levels in South Africa. Anthropometric measures for obesity are well known to predict the development of hypertension. However, the relationship between mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and blood pressure (BP) is scant in South African communities such as universities. Therefore, this study was aimed at investigating the correlation between MUAC and BP among the community of Walter Sisulu University (WSU). A total of 230 participants from WSU (students and staff members), 113 females and 117 males aged ≥ 18 years participated in this cross-sectional study. MUAC, systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were measured using standard procedures. In a Pearson's correlation analysis, MUAC was positively correlated with SBP and DBP in both women (SBP; r = 0.53, P< 0.001; DBP; r = 0.45 P < 0.001) and men (SBP; r = 0.29 P = 0.001; DBP; r = 0.25 P = 0.007). Furthermore, in the multivariable-adjusted regression analysis, MUAC was positively associated with SBP in women only (adjusted R2 = 0.489, β = 0.29 (95% CI = 0.16; 2.08)), P =0.023) after adjusted for age, body fat percentage, waist-to-height ratio, smoking and alcohol. MUAC is positively correlated with BP in women, not in men of WSU community. MUAC, as a simple and low-cost quantifiable parameter, could be employed as a risk indicator in the early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in women.

High serum levels of reactive nitrogen species and low total antioxidant capacity in patients with resistant hypertension compared to those in age- gender matched healthy controls, controlled hypertension and follow up with propranolol treatment in the extended APPROPRIATE trial

OBJECTIVES

To perform a comparative analysis of the extended APPROPRIATE trial of measures of reactive nitrogen species and antioxidant capacity in patients having resistant hypertension with controlled hypertension and healthy controls.

RESULTS

Mean serum NO2- and NOx levels were significantly lower and mean AOC was significantly higher in patients with controlled hypertension (n = 38) and healthy controls (n = 38) compared to resistant hypertension (RHTN) patients (n = 40) at the pre-intervention stage (p < 0.001). The serum NO2-, NOx and AOC levels of both controlled hypertension and healthy controls were comparable to those of the RHTN patients following treatment with propranolol (n = 18). Considering all samples (n = 114) we noted that there were significant weak and moderate positive correlations between NO2- levels with systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (r = 0.396, p < 0.001 and r = 0.292, p = 0.004) as well as total NOx levels with SBP and DBP (r = 0.636 and r = 0.480 respectively, p < 0.001). Conversely, there was a significant negative correlation between AOC levels with SBP and DBP (r= -0.846 and r = -0.626 respectively, p < 0.001).

A Systematic Review on Advances in Management of Oxidative Stress-Associated Cardiovascular Diseases

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, atherosclerosis, heart failure, and hypertension. This systematic review aims to integrate most relevant studies on oxidative stress management in cardiovascular diseases. We searched relevant literatures in the PubMed database using specific keywords. We put emphasis on those manuscripts that were published more recently and in higher impact journals. We reviewed a total of 200 articles. We examined current oxidative stress managements in cardiovascular diseases, including supplements like resveratrol, vitamins C and E, omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, and coenzyme-10, which have shown antioxidative properties and potential cardiovascular benefits. In addition, we reviewed the pharmacological treatments including newly discovered antioxidants and nanoparticles that show potential effects in targeting the specific oxidative stress pathways. Lastly, we examined biomarkers, such as soluble transferrin receptor, transthyretin, and cystatin C in evaluating antioxidant status and identifying cardiovascular risk. By addressing oxidative stress management and mechanisms, this paper emphasizes the importance of maintaining the balance between oxidants and antioxidants in the progression of cardiovascular diseases. This review paper is registered with the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY), registration # INPLASY202470064.

Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT): a novel therapeutic target for metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a constellation of metabolic abnormalities, typified by obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. It stems from intricate dysregulations in metabolic pathways governing energy and substrate metabolism. While comprehending the precise etiological mechanisms of MetS remains challenging, evidence underscores the pivotal roles of aberrations in lipid metabolism and insulin resistance (IR) in its pathogenesis. Notably, nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) has recently surfaced as a promising therapeutic target for addressing MetS. Single nucleotide variants in the NNMT gene are significantly correlated with disturbances in energy metabolism, obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. Elevated NNMT gene expression is notably observed in the liver and white adipose tissue (WAT) of individuals with diabetic mice, obesity, and rats afflicted with MetS. Knockdown of NNMT elicits heightened energy expenditure in adipose and hepatic tissues, mitigates lipid accumulation, and enhances insulin sensitivity. NNMT catalyzes the methylation of nicotinamide (NAM) using S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM) as the donor methyl group, resulting in the formation of S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH) and methylnicotinamide (MNAM). This enzymatic process results in the depletion of NAM, a precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), and the generation of SAH, a precursor of homocysteine (Hcy). Consequently, this cascade leads to reduced NAD+ levels and elevated Hcy levels, implicating NNMT in the pathogenesis of MetS. Moreover, experimental studies employing RNA interference (RNAi) strategies and small molecule inhibitors targeting NNMT have underscored its potential as a therapeutic target for preventing or treating MetS-related diseases. Nonetheless, the precise mechanistic underpinnings remain elusive, and as of yet, clinical trials focusing on NNMT have not been documented. Therefore, further investigations are warranted to elucidate the intricate roles of NNMT in MetS and to develop targeted therapeutic interventions.

Antioxidant and Renin Inhibitory Activities of Peptides from Food Proteins on Hypertension: A Review

Hypertension is a condition induced by oxidative stress causing an alteration in the endothelium, which increases the risk of suffering from other degenerative diseases. This review compiles the findings on peptides from food proteins with antioxidant and antihypertensive activities. Antihypertensive peptides are mainly focused on renin inhibition. Peptides containing hydrophobic amino acids have antioxidant and renin inhibitory activities, as reported by studies on the biological activity of peptides from various food sources evaluated separately and simultaneously. Peptides from food sources can present multiple biological activities. Moreover, antioxidant peptides have the potential to be evaluated against renin, offering an alternative for hypertension therapy without causing adverse side effects.

Mechanisms of Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions associated with the risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Metabolic syndrome is closely related to obesity. Increased adiposity promotes inflammation and oxidative stress, which are precursors of various complications involving metabolic syndrome components, namely insulin resistance, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. An increasing number of studies confirm the importance of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the etiology of metabolic syndrome. However, few studies have reviewed the mechanisms underlying the role of oxidative stress in contributing to metabolic syndrome. In this review, we highlight mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase mitochondrial dysfunction, protein damage, lipid peroxidation, and impair antioxidant function in metabolic syndrome. Biomarkers of oxidative stress can be used in disease diagnosis and evaluation of severity.

Development and External Validation of Nomogram to Identify Risk Factors for CHD in T2DM in the Population of Northwestern China

Purpose

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram for predicting the risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) in T2DM in the population of northwestern China.

Patients and Methods

The records of 2357 T2DM patients who were treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from July 2021 to July 2022 were reviewed. After some data (n =239) were excluded, 2118 participants were included in the study and randomly divided into a training set (n =1483) and a validation set (n = 635) at a ratio of 3:1. Univariate and stepwise regression analysis was performed to screen risk factors and develop predictive models. The results of logistic regression are presented through a nomogram. The C-index, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration plot, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were employed to verify the distinction, calibration, and clinical practicality of the model.

Results

The stepwise logistic regression analysis suggested that independent factors in patients with T2DM combined with CHD were age, gender, hypertension (HTN), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and Uygur, which were associated with the occurrence of CHD. The nomogram demonstrated good discrimination with a C-index of 0.771 (95% CI, 0.741, 0.800) in the training set and 0.785 (95% CI, 0.743, 0.828) in the validation set. The area under curve (AUC) of the ROC curves were 0.771 (95% CI, 0.741, 0.800) and 0.785 (95% CI, 0.743, 0.828) in the training and validation sets, respectively. The nomogram was well-calibrated. The DCA revealed that the nomogram was clinically valuable.

Conclusion

A nomogram based on 7 clinical characteristics was developed to predict CHD in patients with T2DM.

Involvement of AGE and Its Receptors in the Pathogenesis of Hypertension in Elderly People and Its Treatment

Both systolic and diastolic blood pressures increase with age up to 50 to 60 years of age. After 60 years of age systolic pressure rises to 84 years of age but diastolic pressure remains stable or even decreases. In the oldest age group (85-99 years), the systolic blood pressure (SBP) is high and diastolic pressure (DBP) is the lowest. Seventy percent of people older than 65 years are hypertensive. This paper deals with the role of advanced glycation end products (AGE) and its cell receptor (RAGE) and soluble receptor (sRAGE) in the development of hypertension in the elderly population. Plasma/serum levels of AGE are higher in older people as compared with younger people. Serum levels of AGE are positively correlated with age, arterial stiffness, and hypertension. Low serum levels of sRAGE are associated with arterial stiffness and hypertension. Levels of sRAGE are negatively correlated with age and blood pressure. Levels of sRAGE are lower in patients with arterial stiffness and hypertension than patients with high levels of sRAGE. AGE could induce hypertension through numerous mechanisms including, cross-linking with collagen, reduction of nitric oxide, increased expression of endothelin-1, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Interaction of AGE with RAGE could produce hypertension through the generation of reactive oxygen species, increased sympathetic activity, activation of nuclear factor-kB, and increased expression of cytokines, cell adhesion molecules, and TGF- β. In conclusion, the AGE-RAGE axis could be involved in hypertension in elderly people. Treatment for hypertension in elderly people should be targeted at reduction of AGE levels in the body, prevention of AGE formation, degradation of AGE in vivo, downregulation of RAGE expression, blockade of AGE-RAGE interaction, upregulation of sRAGE expression, and use of antioxidants.

Joint effect of blood pressure and glycemic variation on the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in persons with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Few studies have explored the association of visit-to-visit variation in blood pressure (BP) and glycemic factors with cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to examine the independent and joint effect of visit-to-visit BP and glycemic variation on CVD morbidity and mortality in persons with T2DM.

METHODS

The present study consisted of two retrospective cohort studies. The Taiwan Diabetes Study was based on a database of the National Diabetes Care Management Program (DCMP) and linked with cardiovascular morbidity incidence. The Taichung Diabetes Study was based on the DCMP database of a medical center, which can be linked with the National Death Registry dataset. The outcomes were analyzed by using Cox's proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

A total of 13,280 and 10,894 persons with T2DM in Taiwan and Taichung Diabetes Study, respectively, were included. SBP-CV, FPG-CV, and HbA1c-CV were significant predictors of stroke, CVD event or death, all-cause mortality, and expanded CVD mortality, whereas DBP-CV was a significant predictor of all-cause mortality and expanded and non-expanded CVD mortality. The joint effect of SBP, FPG, and HbA1c predicted the incidence of stroke and CVD event or death with increased risks of 16 %-35 %. In addition, the joint effect of SBP, DBP, FPG, and HbA1c was associated with all-cause and expanded CVD mortality with increased risks of 29 %-81 %.

CONCLUSIONS

The joint effect of BP and glucose variation improved the prediction of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Moreover, simultaneous measurement of visit-to-visit BP and glycemic variation may stratify persons with cardiovascular risks and may be regarded as important therapeutic goals in the care of T2DM.

Estimation the relationship between IL-17 and some biochemical parameters in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Little information is available on the relationship between IL-17 with VD, ESR, MDA and GSH levels for patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. This study aimed to determine the levels of IL-17, VD, ESR, MDA and GSH, also to determine the relationship between IL -17 with VD, ESR, MDA and GSH. The sample of this study consists of 30 patients and 30 apparently healthy individuals. The results showed that the levels of IL-17, MDA and ESR marked increase in patients group in compare with controls group (P≤0.05).While levels of VD and GSH shows marked decrease in   patients group in comparison with the controls group (P≤0.05). It was found positive relationship between IL-17 and levels of MDA and ESR. Also it was found negative correlation between IL-17 and levels of the VD and GSH.

Vitamin D intake modifies the association of household air pollution exposure with maternal disorders of pregnancy

To date, only three studies have investigated the association of household air pollution (HAP) exposure with pregnancy disorders. The ameliorating role of diet and nutrition in the association has never been explored. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 799 mothers who had recently given singleton birth in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Structured questionnaire and semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire were used to assess HAP exposure (from use of biomass fuels for cooking and garbage burning at home) and vitamin D (vitD) intake, respectively. Multivariable binary logistic regression was used to investigate the association between HAP exposure and pregnancy disorders. HAP exposure due to cooking with biomass fuels and garbage burning at home was associated with two fold (AOR = 2.15; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05, 4.43) and six fold (AOR = 6.35; 95% CI: 2.43, 16.58) increased odds of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). For gestational diabetes (GDM), the increased odds were two folds for both exposures but the 95% CI included the null value. Stove stacking was also associated with two folds increased odds of GDM (AOR = 1.83; 95% CI: 0.91, 3.68). In stratified analysis, the odds of HDP and GDM associated with biomass fuels use decreased with increasing vitD intake. All the interaction p values were, however, greater than 0.05. We provide the first evidence on the ameliorating role of vitD intake on the effect of HAP exposure on pregnancy disorders. In LMICs where solid fuel use and garbage burning at home is widespread, health workers should advise mothers during antenatal care visits to increase intake of vitamin D rich foods.

Current Status of Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Prevention of Coronary Artery Disease

Fifty percent of all death from cardiovascular diseases is due to coronary artery disease (CAD). This is avoidable if early identification is made. Preventive health care has a major role in the fight against CAD. Atherosclerosis and atherosclerotic plaque rupture are involved in the development of CAD. Modifiable risk factors for CAD are dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, cigarette smoking, obesity, chronic renal disease, chronic infection, high C-reactive protein, and hyperhomocysteinemia. CAD can be prevented by modification of risk factors. This paper defines the primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of CAD. It discusses the mechanism of risk factor-induced atherosclerosis. This paper describes the CAD risk score and its use in the selection of individuals for primary prevention of CAD. Guidelines for primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of CAD have been described. Modification of risk factors and use of guidelines for prevention of CAD would prevent, regress, and slow down the progression of CAD, improve the quality of life of patient, and reduce the health care cost.

Roles of Averrhoa bilimbi Extract in Increasing Serum Nitric Oxide Concentration and Vascular Dilatation of Ethanol-Induced Hypertensive Rats

The considerably high incidence of cardiovascular disease in Indonesia has attracted scientists to investigate various plant and fruit extracts as preventive agents. Averrhoa bilimbi (AB) is rich in bioactive constituents that may be effective in preventing indicators of hypertension. This study evaluated the roles of AB extract in increasing serum nitric oxide (NO) concentration and vascular dilatation in ethanol-induced hypertensive rats. A total of 24 male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) were divided equally into 4 treatment groups (n=6): P0 (control group, administered placebo); P1 [administered captopril 3 mg/kg body weight (BW) orally]; P2 (administered AB extract at 20 g/kg BW); and P3 (administered AB extract at 40 g/kg BW). The AB extract was obtained from fresh AB macerated in 96% ethanol and was subjected to bioactive compounds identification using thin layer chromatography. After pretreatment with ethanol for 15 days, treatments were administered daily for 14 days. All rats were measured for tail blood pressure by the tail-cuff method and NO concentrations by avidin-horseradish peroxidase sandwich-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. All rats were sacrificed to collect blood vessels for histopathology. The results showed that AB extracts contained flavonoids, saponins, polyphenols, essential oils, and anthraquinone. Treatment with AB extract at a dose of 40 mg/kg BW significantly increased NO concentrations (P<0.05). Histopathological analysis showed that AB extracts inhibited endothelial pyknosis, intimal body, and adventitial leukocyte infiltration of posterior vena cava blood vessels. These results suggest that the protective effect of AB extracts is associated with NO concentration in the blood by inhibiting blood vessel dysfunction.

WHF Position Statement on COVID Vaccination

The current COVID-19 pandemic has challenged health systems and communities globally. As such, several countries have embarked on national COVID-19 vaccination programmes in order to curb spread of the disease. However, at present, there isn't yet enough dosages to enable vaccination of the general population. Different vaccine prioritization strategies are thus being implemented in different communities in order to permit for a systematic vaccination of individuals. Here, on behalf of the World Heart Federation, we emphasize the need for individuals with Cardiovascular disease to be prioritized in national vaccine prioritization programmes as these are high risk individuals.

Diet-induced prediabetes: effects of exercise treatment on risk factors for cardiovascular complications

BACKGROUND

An animal model of prediabetes that has been developed in our laboratory using a high fat high carbohydrate diet and lack of physical activity displays risk factors for cardiovascular complications. The effect of exercise against these risk factors in this animal model remains unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of intermittent and regular exercise treatment on the risk factors for cardiovascular complications in this animal model of prediabetes.

METHODS

Following prediabetes induction, animals were randomly assigned to the following groups (n = 6): non-diabetic, prediabetic, intermittently exercising prediabetic and regularly exercising prediabetic. Exercise exposure was 7 weeks long. Body weight changes, caloric intake, blood glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride concentration was measured after 20 and 29 weeks while blood pressure was only measured after 29 weeks. Plasma endothelial nitric oxide synthase, malonaldehyde, glutathione peroxidase, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and C-reactive protein concentration from the heart were measured 2 weeks post-exercise termination (week 30).

RESULTS

We found increased body weight, caloric intake and mean arterial pressure in the prediabetic group by comparison to the non-prediabetic group. The same trend was observed in blood glucose and triglyceride concentrations. However, all of these parameters were reduced in the intermittently exercising prediabetic and regularly exercising prediabetic groups. This reduction was further accompanied by a decrease in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and C-reactive protein concentration with improved oxidative stress biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

The progression of pre-diabetes to diabetes is slowed or possibly stopped by exercise (regular or intermittent). Additionally, biomarker profiles indicative of cardiovascular disease in pre-diabetics are improved by exercise.

Thrombocytopathy and endotheliopathy: crucial contributors to COVID-19 thromboinflammation

The core pathology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is infection of airway cells by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that results in excessive inflammation and respiratory disease, with cytokine storm and acute respiratory distress syndrome implicated in the most severe cases. Thrombotic complications are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with COVID-19. Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease and/or traditional cardiovascular risk factors, including obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and advanced age, are at the highest risk of death from COVID-19. In this Review, we summarize new lines of evidence that point to both platelet and endothelial dysfunction as essential components of COVID-19 pathology and describe the mechanisms that might account for the contribution of cardiovascular risk factors to the most severe outcomes in COVID-19. We highlight the distinct contributions of coagulopathy, thrombocytopathy and endotheliopathy to the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and discuss potential therapeutic strategies in the management of patients with COVD-19. Harnessing the expertise of the biomedical and clinical communities is imperative to expand the available therapeutics beyond anticoagulants and to target both thrombocytopathy and endotheliopathy. Only with such collaborative efforts can we better prepare for further waves and for future coronavirus-related pandemics.

Hyperhomocysteinemia-induced Nrf2/HO-1 pathway suppression aggravates cardiac remodeling of hypertensive rats

ABJECTIVE

Interaction of hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) leads to enhanced cardiac remodeling in hypertensive heart disease. However, the mechanism of collagen accumulation and cardiac remodeling remains unclear. In this study, we attempted to evaluate the relationship between hypertension and HHcy in the context of cardiac remodeling and to explore its mechanism of action.

METHODS

Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneous hypertension rats (SHR) were randomly divided into four groups, namely WKY group, WKY + HHcy group, SHR group and SHR + HHcy group. We measured blood pressure (BP), plasma homocysteine (Hcy), serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and serum malondialdehyde (MDA). We also examined cardiac histopathology and gene and protein expression levels of Nrf2 and HO-1.

RESULTS

Compared with the WKY group, myocardial interstitial and perivascular collagen deposition in the WKY + HHcy group, the SHR group and the SHR + HHcy group increased successively, indicating that cardiac remodeling gradually increased, and HHcy aggravated cardiac remodeling was more serious in hypertensive rats. SOD decreased gradually in the four groups, while MDA was on the contrary. WKY + HHcy and SHR + HHcy groups both suppressed Nrf2 and HO-1 expression and inhibited the translocation of Nrf2 from cytoplasm to nucleus compared with their control groups, and the SHR + HHcy group had a stronger inhibitory effect.

CONCLUSION

HHcy enhanced cardiac remodeling in rats by enhancing oxidative stress, suppressing the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and Nrf2 nuclear transport, and this inhibitory effect was stronger in the context of hypertension.

NRF2 in Cardiovascular Diseases: a Ray of Hope!

Heart failure is a worldwide pandemic influencing 26 million individuals worldwide and is expanding. Imbalanced redox homeostasis in cardiac cells alters the structure and function of the cells, which leads to contractile dysfunction, myocardial hypertrophy, and fibrosis in chronic heart failure. Various targets and agents acting on these such as siRNA, miRNA, interleukin-1, opioids, vasodilators, and SGLT2 inhibitors are being evaluated for heart failure, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is one of them. NRF2 is a master transcription factor which is expressed in most of the tissues and exhibits a major role in amplification of the antioxidant pathways associated with the enzymes present in myocardium. Increased ROS generation and PI3K-Akt signaling can activate the receptor NRF2. Various in vitro and in vivo and few clinical studies suggested NRF2 may possess a potential for targeting oxidative stress-induced cardiovascular diseases including heart failures. All these studies collectively propose that upregulation of NRF2 will attenuate the increase in hemodynamic stress and provide beneficial role in cardiovascular diseases. The current review shall familiarize readers about the regulations and functions of NRF2. We have also discussed the current evidences suggesting beneficial role of NRF2 activators in heart failure. Graphical abstract.

High-intensity interval training irrespective of its intensity improves markers of blood fluidity in hypertensive patients

Aim: The present study examined and compared the effects of two different HIIT (High-intensity interval training) protocols on markers of blood fluidity in hypertensive patients.Methods: Thirty hypertensive (stage 1, systolic BP >140 and diastolic BP>90 mmHg) patients (age, 47.96 ± 3.20 yrs), were randomly allocated to short-duration HIIT (SDHIIT, n = 10), long-duration HIIT (LDHIIT, n = 10), and control (n = 10) groups. After 2 weeks of continuous mild training, patients in SDHIIT group performed 8 weeks of HIIT included 27 min HIIT that encompassed 27 repetitions of 30 s activity at 80%-100% of VO₂peak interspersed by 30 s passive/active (10%-20% of VO₂peak) recovery, while, patients in LDHIIT group performed 8 weeks of HIIT (32 min per session) included 4 repetitions of 4 min activity at 75%-90% of VO₂peak interspersed by 4 min passive/active (15%-30% of VO₂peak) recovery. Two blood samples were taken before and after training and were analyzed for hemorheological variables.Results: Significant (P < .05) reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP), blood and plasma viscosity, fibrinogen concentration and red blood cell (RBC) aggregation (8-12%) were found following two training protocols (P < .05), though, the differences between adaptations were not statistically significant (P > .05). In addition, HIIT protocols increased RBC deformability significantly (P < .05), with no significant differences being observed between two protocols.Conclusion: It is concluded that HIIT training reduces SBP and markers of blood fluidity in patients with stage 1 hypertension irrespective of the HIIT intensity and duration. Therefore, this type of exercise training could be prescribed for improving the blood fluidity markers in hypertensive patients.

Vitis vinifera L. Grape Skin Extract Prevents Development of Hypertension and Altered Lipid Profile in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: Role of Oxidative Stress

This study investigated the protective effect of a Vitis vinifera L. grape skin extract (ACH09) on blood pressure, lipid profile, and oxidative status in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Systolic blood pressure (SBP), total cholesterol, triglyceride, and glucose levels, as well as oxidative damage and antioxidant activity in the plasma and kidney, were evaluated in four experimental groups: control Wistar rats (W-C) and SHR-C that received water, and Wistar rats and SHR treated with ACH09 (200 mg/kg/d) in drinking water for 12 weeks (W-ACH09 and SHR-ACH09, respectively). SBP increased in the SHR group compared with the W groups and the treatment with ACH09 prevented the development of hypertension. Plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol levels increased in SHR compared with W-C rats; these changes prevented by treatment with ACH09. Glucose levels did not differ between the groups. The SHR group had increased oxidative damage in plasma, as expressed by 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels, and this prevented by ACH09. Levels of TBARS in the kidneys were lower in the SHR-ACH09 group than in the SHR-C group. Further, ACH09 increased the superoxide dismutase activity in both the plasma and kidneys of both SHR and Wistar rats. These results suggest that ACH09 is protective against disruption of blood pressures, oxidant status, and lipid profile in SHR, and provide important evidence on the benefits of ACH09 on hypertension and associated cardiovascular complications.

Association of Hypertension and Obesity with Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Diseases in Children Aged 6-9 Years Old in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors are known to begin early in life, but limited data on the relationship of obesity and hypertension with other known CVD risk factors, such as endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and chronic low-grade inflammation is available on children. In this cross-sectional study involving 6–9 years old school children aged from the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa the relationship between obesity/hypertension and other risk factors for CVDs was investigated. General anthropometric parameters were measured, followed by blood pressure (BP) measurements and pulse wave velocity (PWV). Urine samples were collected for the determination of albumin, creatinine, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), 8-hydroxy-2deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS). Overweight/obesity (19.28%) and pre-hypertension/hypertension (42.16%) were prevalent in children. Mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), a marker of obesity, was positively correlated with ADMA, while ADMA and PWV were significantly different (p < 0.05) between hypertensive and normotensive children. Also, TBARS and 8-OHdG were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in hypertensive subjects. Creatinine was significantly (p < 0.05) increased in obese, as well as in hypertensive children, and positively associated with waist circumference (WC) and neck circumference (NC). In conclusion, obesity and hypertension were associated with renal-cardiovascular disease risk, while oxidative stress showed a possible association with obesity in 6 to 9 year old South African children of African descent. This suggests that South African children of African descent may be becoming more prone to developing CVDs, and therefore may require early intervention for the prevention of CVDs in the near future.

Therapeutic role of taurine as antioxidant in reducing hypertension risks in rats

AIM

The current investigation focused on the therapeutic role of the administration of taurine on hypertensive rats to reduce or cure the hazard effects of hypertension problems.

METHODOLOGY

This research included 2 experiments; 1st was done to survey the variations that might occur in blood pressure (BP) of male rats because of the fed 8% NaCl diet for 4 weeks. 2nd experiment, it contains normal control rats', hypertensive rats were served as hypertension recovery group and hypertensive rats were took orally by the help of gastric tube 50 mg taurine/100 g b.wt/day for four weeks and served as taurine group.

RESULTS

1st experimental, clarified a significant elevation in BP, body weight, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, activities of serum cardiac enzymes, endothelin-1, ADMA, MDA and TNF-α in hypertensive rats' group. On contrary, there is a significant reduction in serum level of TNO and antioxidant enzymes level in relation to the control group. A numerical variation but not statistically significant was happened in HDL in hypertensive rats' group as compared to their matching results in control rats' group. 2nd experimental taurine significantly reduced the BP as compared with hypertensive control. Furthermore, a significant improvement occurred in the mean value of most investigation parameters in hypertensive animal group which treated with taurine.

CONCLUSION

The previous data could be concluded that, there is an obvious amelioration effects of taurine on hypertensive rats by reducing the hazard effects of hypertension problems. The primary mechanisms were discussed according to existing published investigations.

Effect of Treatment with Peptide Extract from Beef Myofibrillar Protein on Oxidative Stress in the Brains of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

This study was conducted to determine the effect of beef peptide extract on oxidative stress in the brains of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). A 3-kDa peptide extract was obtained from beef myofibrillar protein using alkaline-AK (AK3K). Oxidative stress in SHR brains was measured by assessing malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. The SHR brains treated with the AK3K peptide extract (400 mg/kg body weight, AK3K400) showed a significant decrease in MDA and ROS contents by 0.33 and 23.92 μM, respectively (p < 0.05) compared to the control. The SOD activity for AK3K400 was 61.26%, around 20% higher than the control. Furthermore, the SHRs treated with the AK3K peptide extract showed results similar to those obtained using captopril, a hypertension drug, except for the MDA level. The study demonstrates that the beef peptide extract inhibits the generation of oxidative stress in the SHR brain and could possibly be used for neuronal hypertension therapy.

Microvascular endothelial function and primary open angle glaucoma

Purpose

To determine the role of microvascular endothelial dysfunction as risk factor for primary open angle glaucoma.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 114 Malay patients with POAG seen at the eye clinic of Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Patients aged between 40 and 80 years who were diagnosed with other types of glaucoma, previous glaucoma filtering surgery or other surgeries except uncomplicated cataract surgery and pterygium surgery were excluded. A total of 101 patients who were followed up for dry eyes, age-related cataracts or post cataracts extraction surgery were recruited as control subjects. Those with family history of glaucoma or glaucoma suspect were excluded. Microvascular endothelial function was assessed using laser Doppler fluximetry and the process of iontophoresis. Iontophoresis with acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) was used to measure microvascular endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasodilatations, respectively.

Results

In general, POAG patients demonstrated lower ACh% and ACh_max values compared with controls. There was significant difference in microvascular endothelial function [ACh%: mean, 95% confidence interval = 503.1 (378.0, 628.3), and ACh_max: mean, 95% confidence interval = 36.8 (30.2, 43.5)] between primary open angle glaucoma cases (p < 0.001) and controls [ACh%: mean, 95% confidence interval = 1378.4 (1245.4, 1511.3), and ACh_max: mean, 95% confidence interval = 79.2 (72.1, 86.2)]; this difference remained significant even after controlling for potential confounders. Similar difference was also found in SNP% and SNP_max between POAG and controls (p < 0.001). Age and diastolic blood pressure were inversely correlated with microvascular endothelial function.

Conclusion

There was an impairment of microvascular endothelial function and endothelial-independent vasodilatation in POAG patients. Microvascular endothelial function is a potential risk factor for POAG.

Association Between Hypertension in Healthy Participants and Zinc and Copper Status: a Population-Based Study

The prevalence of hypertension (HTN) is increasing globally. It has been shown that there is an association between micronutrient deficiency and HTN. In the current study, we aimed to assess the association between HTN with serum copper and zinc concentrations in a large representative Iranian population. The participants were enrolled into the Mashhad stroke and heart atherosclerotic disorders study (MASHAD study), a cohort study that was initiated in 2010. Anthropometric indices were assessed using standard procedures. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures were measured using a standard mercury sphygmomanometer. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile, uric acid and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and hs-CRP were measured using routine methods. HTN defined as persons who had SBP ≥ 130 mmHg and/or DBP ≥ 85 mmHg and/or medication use. Flame atomic absorption (Varian AA240FS) was used to measure serum Zn and Cu concentrations. SPSS software was used for all statistical analyses. A total of 9588 participants were recruited into the MASHAD study project. Participants were divided into two groups; 5695 healthy (non-hypertensive) (mean age 45.85 ± 7.5 years) and 3893 hypertensive participants (mean age 51.18 ± 7.67 years). Systolic (p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) were significantly different for different serum copper quartiles. The participants with serum copper levels < 80 μg/dl had 1.33 times greater risk of an increased blood pressure than other participants. Participants with serum copper levels > 130 μg/dl had a 1.94-fold higher risk of raised blood pressure. Serum zinc was not associated with systolic blood pressure, but individuals in the first quartile level of serum zinc had a diastolic blood pressure that was significantly higher than other quartiles (p = 0.035). Serum copper is associated with blood pressure status in adults in a U-shaped relationship, with a range of serum copper between 80 and 130 μg/dl being associated with normal blood pressure.

Functionalized cerium oxide nanoparticles mitigate the oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory activity associated to the portal vein endothelium of cirrhotic rats

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The occurrence of endothelial alterations in the liver and in the splanchnic vasculature of cirrhotic patients and experimental models of liver diseases has been demonstrated. However, the pathological role of the portal vein endothelium in this clinical context is scarcely studied and, therefore, deserves attention. In this context, we aimed to investigate whether pathological endothelial activation occurs in the portal vein of cirrhotic rats.

METHODS

Cirrhosis was induced in wistar rats by CCl4 inhalation. We generated immortalized endothelial cells from the portal vein of control (CT-iPVEC) and cirrhotic rats (CH-iPVEC) by retroviral transduction of the SV40 T antigen. We assessed differential gene expression and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in iPVECs and in portal veins of control and cirrhotic rats. Finally, we assessed the therapeutic effectiveness of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NP) on reversing PVEC activation and macrophage polarization.

RESULTS

CH-iPVECs overexpressed collagen-I, endothelin-1, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, IL-6 and PlGF genes. These results were consistent with the differential expression showed by whole portal veins from cirrhotic rats. In addition, CH-iPVECs showed a significant increase in intracellular ROS and the capacity of potentiating M1 polarization in macrophages. The treatment of CH-iPVECs with CeO2NPs blocked intracellular ROS formation and IL-6 and TIMP-2 gene overexpression. In agreement with the in vitro results, the chronic treatment of cirrhotic rats with CeO2NPs also resulted in the blockade of both ROS formation and IL-6 gene overexpression in whole portal veins.

CONCLUSIONS

Endothelial cells from portal vein of cirrhotic rats depicted an abnormal phenotype characterized by a differential gene expression and the induction of M1 polarization in macrophages. We identified the excess of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a major contributor to this altered phenotype. In addition, we demonstrated the utility of the nanomaterial cerium oxide as an effective antioxidant capable of reverse some of these pathological features associated with the portal vein in the cirrhosis condition.

Oxidative stress in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: player and/or early predictor for disease progression?

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), caused by mutations in PKD1 or PKD2 genes, is the most common hereditary renal disease. Renal manifestations of ADPKD are gradual cyst development and kidney enlargement ultimately leading to end-stage renal disease. ADPKD also causes extrarenal manifestations, including endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. Both of these complications are linked with reduced nitric oxide levels related to excessive oxidative stress (OS). OS, defined as disturbances in the prooxidant/antioxidant balance, is harmful to cells due to the excessive generation of highly reactive oxygen and nitrogen free radicals. Next to endothelial dysfunction and hypertension, there is cumulative evidence that OS occurs in the early stages of ADPKD. In the current review, we aim to summarize the cardiovascular complications and the relevance of OS in ADPKD and, more specifically, in the early stages of the disease. First, we will briefly introduce the link between ADPKD and the early cardiovascular complications including hypertension. Secondly, we will describe the potential role of OS in the early stages of ADPKD and its possible importance beyond the chronic kidney disease (CKD) effect. Finally, we will discuss some pharmacological agents capable of reducing reactive oxygen species and OS, which might represent potential treatment targets for ADPKD.

Chronic occupational noise exposure: Effects on DNA damage, blood pressure, and serum biochemistry

Noise levels experienced by industrial workers may cause both auditory and non-auditory harmful effects. We have studied the effects of chronic industrial noise exposure on DNA damage, blood pressure, and serum biochemistry in factory workers. Male workers (109 individuals) in three parts of a food factory in Shahroud, Iran were enrolled as the exposed group and male office workers (123 individuals) were the unexposed control group. Noise exposure was measured (dosimetry) and the comet assay was used to evaluate DNA damage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and ceruloplasmin (Cp) levels were measured in serum samples. GPx levels, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and DNA damage were significantly higher in the exposed group than in the control group. However, ceruloplasmin levels were not significantly different. Based on multivariate linear regression analysis, noise exposure was the most important predictor of GPx levels, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and DNA damage.

Effect of cocoa powder on hypertension and antioxidant status in uninephrectomized hypertensive rats

BACKGROUND AND AIM

High salt diet and uninephrectomy are associated with high blood pressure with attendant cardiovascular disease conditions such as hypertension, renal damage, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of consumption of cocoa and cocoa-containing products in the management of high blood pressure in uninephrectomized hypertensive rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of cocoa powder on blood pressure, markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and histopathology were investigated in uninephrectomized animals fed with cocoa feed alone or in combination with a high salt diet. Male rats were randomly divided into five groups: Group A was the control group and fed with normal feed alone, Group B was fed with cocoa feed alone, Group C was fed with high salt diet (8% salt), GroupD was fed with cocoa-feed compounded with 8% salt for 4weeks after uninephrectomy, and GroupE was uninephrectomized rats on a normal diet. The left kidneys of animals in GroupsC, D, and E were removed by surgery. After 4weeks of treatment, the systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure was measured. The serum markers of renal damage and oxidative stress were determined. Histological examination was also performed on renal and cardiac tissues.

RESULTS

Results showed significant increases in biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal damage with a concomitant decrease in antioxidant status in hypertensive uninephrectomized rats. Cocoa feed, however, significantly improved blood pressure and nitric oxide bioavailability, antioxidant status and reduced markers of inflammation and oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION

These findings show that cocoa powder could be used to maintain blood pressure levels in hypertensive rats through its antioxidant capacity.

Cobalt chloride toxicity elicited hypertension and cardiac complication via induction of oxidative stress and upregulation of COX-2/Bax signaling pathway

Cobalt is a ferromagnetic metal with extensive industrial and biological applications. To assess the toxic effects of, and mechanisms involved in cobalt chloride (CoCl₂)-induced cardio-renal dysfunctions. Male Wistar rats were exposed orally, daily through drinking water to 0 ppm (control), 150 ppm, 300 ppm, and 600 ppm of CoCl₂, respectively. Following exposure, results revealed significant ( p < 0.05) rise in markers of oxidative stress, but decreased activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, and reduced glutathione content in cardiac and renal tissues. There were significant increases in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure at the 300- and 600-ppm level of CoCl₂-exposed rats relative to the control. Prolongation of QT and QTc intervals was observed in CoCl₂ alone treated rats. Also, there were significant increases in the heart rates, and reduction in P wave, and PR duration of rats administered CoCl₂. Histopathology of the kidney revealed peritubular and periglomerular inflammation, focal glomerular necrosis following CoCl₂ exposure. Further, cyclooxygenase-2 and B-cell associated protein X expressions were upregulated in the cardiac and renal tissues of CoCl₂-exposed rats relative to the control. Combining all, results from this study implicated oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis as pathologic mechanisms in CoCl₂-induced hypertension and cardiovascular complications of rats.

Antihypertensive Effect of γ-Aminobutyric Acid-Enriched Brown Rice on Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

'Haiibuki' is a giant embryo rice cultivar that contains abundant γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) compared with conventional rice cultivars. Here, we performed a functional evaluation of 'GABA-enriched brown rice' (GEBR) prepared by modifying the 'Haiibuki' cultivar to contain more GABA. Study 1: Spontaneously hypertensive rats were divided into three groups [control (cornstarch), normal brown rice, and GEBR] and fed an orally administered diet for 4 wk. A significant blood pressure elevation-inhibitory effect was observed in the GEBR group as compared with the other groups. Study 2: Rats were divided into two groups and fed ad libitum for 12 wk. The two groups were control (commercial feed with 5% cornstarch) and GEBR (commercial feed with 5% GEBR). Body weight, blood pressure, food consumption, and water intake were measured during the study period, and blood chemistry was analyzed after the study. Plasma 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and urinary isoprostane were measured 12 and 10 wk after the start of the study, respectively. A significant blood pressure elevation-inhibitory effect was observed in the GEBR group. The 8-OHdG and isoprostane levels were significantly lower in the GEBR group than in the control group, demonstrating an oxidative stress-reducing effect. Therefore, GEBR exhibited a blood pressure elevation-inhibitory effect under the conditions of this study. The antioxidative action may occur secondarily to the antihypertensive action of GABA, suggesting that the long-term ad libitum ingestion of GEBR prevents hypertension. A reduction in oxidative stress could reduce the chances of complications in cardiovascular diseases.

Environmental impact on the onset of hypertension-induced end-stage renal disease

This study intends to assess the impact of environmental factors on the onset of hypertension-induced end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and to compare the level of oxidative stress with nonhypertensive diabetic ESRD. ESRD patients were evaluated along with healthy controls through questionnaire for demographic, nutritional and lifestyle variables. Oxidants were measured along with antioxidants. Multiple linear regression (MLR) models were applied to analyze association of studied variables with oxidants and antioxidants. Most of the hypertensive nephrosclerotic patients were residing in locality that was either closer to industrial belt or polluting water bodies, belonging to low socioeconomic status that invariably affected their lifestyle and nutritional status. Hypertensive ESRD patients showed more pronounced oxidative stress than diabetic ESRD. Several of the studied variables were significantly associated with oxidants and antioxidants. Demographic, nutritional and lifestyle variables appeared to have suggestive effect on the onset of hypertensive nephrosclerosis.

Immunometabolic Regulation of Vascular Redox State: The Role of Adipose Tissue

SIGNIFICANCE

Vascular oxidative stress plays a crucial role in atherogenesis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Recent evidence suggests that vascular redox state is under the control of complex pathophysiological mechanisms, ranging from inflammation to obesity and insulin resistance (IR). Recent Advances: Adipose tissue (AT) is now recognized as a dynamic endocrine and paracrine organ that secretes several bioactive molecules, called adipokines. AT has recently been shown to regulate vascular redox state in both an endocrine and a paracrine manner through the secretion of adipokines, therefore providing a mechanistic link for the association between obesity, IR, inflammation, and vascular disease. Importantly, AT behaves as a sensor of cardiovascular oxidative stress, modifying its secretory profile in response to cardiovascular oxidative injury.

CRITICAL ISSUES

The present article presents an up-to-date review of the association between AT and vascular oxidative stress. We focus on the effects of individual adipokines on modulating reactive oxygen species production and scavenging in the vascular wall. In addition, we highlight how inflammation, obesity, and IR alter the biology and secretome of AT leading to a more pro-oxidant phenotype with a particular focus on the local regulatory mechanisms of perivascular AT driven by vascular oxidation.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

The complex and dynamic biology of AT, as well as its importance in the regulation of vascular redox state, provides numerous opportunities for the development of novel, targeted treatments in the management of CVD. Therapeutic modulation of AT biology could improve vascular redox state affecting vascular disease pathogenesis. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 29, 313-336.

Senescent Microvesicles: A Novel Advance in Molecular Mechanisms of Atherosclerotic Calcification

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease that causes the most heart attacks and strokes in humans, is the leading cause of death in the developing world; its principal clinical manifestation is coronary artery disease. The development of atherosclerosis is attributed to the aging process itself (biological aging) and is also associated with the development of chronic diseases (premature aging). Both aging processes produce an increase in risk factors such as oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction and proinflammatory cytokines (oxi-inflamm-aging) that might generate endothelial senescence associated with damage in the vascular system. Cellular senescence increases microvesicle release as carriers of molecular information, which contributes to the development and calcification of atherosclerotic plaque, as a final step in advanced atherosclerotic plaque formation. Consequently, this review aims to summarize the information gleaned to date from studies investigating how the senescent extracellular vesicles, by delivering biological signalling, contribute to atherosclerotic calcification.

Epistasis analysis of metabolic genes polymorphisms associated with ischemic heart disease in Yucatan

OBJECTIVE

Epistasis is a type of genetic interaction that could explain much of the phenotypic variability of complex diseases. In this work, the effect of epistasis of metabolic genes and cardiovascular risk on the susceptibility to the development of ischemic heart disease in Yucatan was determined.

METHODS

Case-control study in 79 Yucatecan patients with ischemic heart disease and 101 healthy controls matched by age and origin with cases. The polymorphisms -108CT, Q192R, L55M (paraoxonase 1; PON1), C677T, A1298C (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase; MTHFR), and the presence/absence of the glutathione S-transferase T1 (GSTT1) gene were genotyped. Epistasis analysis was performed using the multifactorial dimensional reduction method. The best risk prediction model was selected based on precision (%), statistical significance (P<0.05), and cross-validation consistency.

RESULTS

We found an independent association of the null genotype GSTT1*0/0 (OR=3.39, CI: 1.29-8.87, P=0.017) and the null allele (OR=1.86, CI: 1.19-2.91, P=0.007) with ischemic heart disease. The GSTT1*0 deletion and the 677TT genotype (MTHFR) were identified as being at a high cardiovascular risk, whereas the GSTT1*1 wild type genotype and the CC677 variant were at low risk. The gene-environment interaction identified the GSTT1 gene, C677T polymorphism (MTHFR), and hypertension as the factors that best explain ischemic heart disease in the study population.

CONCLUSIONS

The interaction of the MTHFR, GSTT1 and hypertension may constitute a predictive model of risk for early onset ischemic heart disease in the population of Yucatan.

Inflammation and oxidative stress markers in diabetes and hypertension

Background

Inflammation and oxidative stress are important factors associated with chronic disease such as essential hypertension (HTN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the association of inflammation and oxidative stress in HTN with T2DM as a comorbidity is inconclusive due to the multifactorial nature of these cardiometabolic diseases.

Methodology

The influence of pathophysiological factors include genetics, age of patient, and disease progression change throughout the lifespan and require further investigation. The study population included 256 participants attending a rural health screening program who were tested for markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and coagulation/fibrinolysis. Demographic and clinical variables included, age, gender, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and cholesterol profile. Data were tested for normality, and nonparametric statistics were applied to analyze the sample with significance set at p<0.05.

Results

Of the inflammatory markers, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-10 were significantly different between the control and hypertensive group (p<0.03) and between the HTN+T2DM compared to the HTN group (p<0.05). Significant results for oxidative stress were observed for urinary 8-iso-PGF₂α and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) between the control and the HTN+T2DM group (p<0.01). Glutathione (GSH) was also significant between the HTN and HTN+T2DM group (p<0.05). Investigation of the progression of HTN also found significant changes in the inflammatory markers IGF-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), and (MCP-1/IGF-1)*IL-6 (p<0.05).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that 8-iso-PGF₂α and erythrocyte GSH may be clinically useful for assessing HTN and HTN with T2DM as a comorbidity, while significant changes in the inflammatory profile were also observed with HTN progression.

Effects of peripherally and centrally applied ghrelin on the oxidative stress induced by renin angiotensin system in a rat model of renovascular hypertension

BACKGROUND

Renovascular hypertension (RVH) is a result of renal artery stenosis, which is commonly due to astherosclerosis. In this study, we aimed to clarify the central and peripheral effects of ghrelin on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in a rat model of RVH.

METHODS

RVH was induced in rats by partial subdiaphragmatic aortic constriction. Experiment A was designed to assess the central effect of ghrelin via the intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of ghrelin (5 μg/kg) or losartan (0.01 mg/kg) in RVH rats. Experiment B was designed to assess the peripheral effect of ghrelin via the subcutaneous (SC) injection of ghrelin (150 μg/kg) or losartan (10 mg/kg) for 7 consecutive days. Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), heart rate, plasma renin activity (PRA), and oxidative stress markers were measured in all rats. In addition, angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R) concentration was measured in the hypothalamus of rats in Experiment B.

RESULTS

RVH significantly increased brain AT1R, PRA, as well as the brain and plasma oxidative stress. Either SC or ICV ghrelin or losartan caused a significant decrease in MAP with no change in the heart rate. Central ghrelin or losartan caused a significant decrease in brain AT1R with significant alleviation of the brain oxidative stress. Central ghrelin caused a significant decrease in PRA, whereas central losartan caused a significant increase in PRA. SC ghrelin significantly decreased PRA and plasma oxidative stress, whereas SC losartan significantly increased PRA and decreased plasma oxidative stress.

CONCLUSIONS

The hypotensive effect of ghrelin is mediated through the amelioration of oxidative stress, which is induced by RAS centrally and peripherally.

Polyphenols and Oxidative Stress in Atherosclerosis-Related Ischemic Heart Disease and Stroke

Good nutrition could maintain health and life. Polyphenols are common nutrient mainly derived from fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, cocoa, mushrooms, beverages, and traditional medicinal herbs. They are potential substances against oxidative-related diseases, for example, cardiovascular disease, specifically, atherosclerosis-related ischemic heart disease and stroke, which are health and economic problems recognized worldwide. In this study, we reviewed the risk factors for atherosclerosis, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and cigarette smoking as well as the antioxidative activity of polyphenols, which could prevent the pathology of atherosclerosis, including endothelial dysfunction, low-density lipoprotein oxidation, vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, inflammatory process by monocytes, macrophages or T lymphocytes, and platelet aggregation. The strong radical-scavenging properties of polyphenols would exhibit antioxidative and anti-inflammation effects. Polyphenols reduce ROS production by inhibiting oxidases, reducing the production of superoxide, inhibiting OxLDL formation, suppressing VSMC proliferation and migration, reducing platelet aggregation, and improving mitochondrial oxidative stress. Polyphenol consumption also inhibits the development of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. Despite the numerous in vivo and in vitro studies, more advanced clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy of polyphenols in the treatment of atherosclerosis-related vascular diseases.

Biomarkers of antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in elderly patients with hypertension

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to examine selected parameters of the blood redox system in elderly patients with hypertension.examine selected parameters of the blood redox system in elderly patients with hypertension.

METHODS

We analyzed differences in redox-associated molecules and enzymes among elderly hypertensive subjects (age above 65 years, n = 49) and two groups of normotensive subjects (<65 years old - Control group I; n = 27, and >65 - Control group II; n = 30).

RESULTS

Decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes, increased lipid peroxidation and reduced production of nitric oxide were observed in hypertensive subjects, compared to healthy younger controls, or those of the same age. In healthy controls, an age-related decrease in the production of nitric oxide and the activities of SOD-1 and GPx-1 was also evident. The pathology of hypertension was characterised by further, significant decreases in the values of these parameters. When the subgroups of females and males were compared to their respective controls, a compromised redox balance was observed that was more evident in female hypertensives.

DISCUSSION

Hypertension in elderly patients is accompanied by changes in biomarkers of antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation status, which significantly differ from those observed in healthy ageing subjects. Our study also suggests that the relationship of gender and changes in redox balance with regard to hypertension should be further explored.

The Role of Nrf2 in Cardiovascular Function and Disease

Free radicals, reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), hydrogen sulphide, and hydrogen peroxide play an important role in both intracellular and intercellular signaling; however, their production and quenching need to be closely regulated to prevent cellular damage. An imbalance, due to exogenous sources of free radicals and chronic upregulation of endogenous production, contributes to many pathological conditions including cardiovascular disease and also more general processes involved in aging. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2; commonly known as Nrf2) is a transcription factor that plays a major role in the dynamic regulation of a network of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes, through binding to and activating expression of promoters containing the antioxidant response element (ARE). Nrf2 activity is regulated by many mechanisms, suggesting that tight control is necessary for normal cell function and both hypoactivation and hyperactivation of Nrf2 are indicated in playing a role in different aspects of cardiovascular disease. Targeted activation of Nrf2 or downstream genes may prove to be a useful avenue in developing therapeutics to reduce the impact of cardiovascular disease. We will review the current status of Nrf2 and related signaling in cardiovascular disease and its relevance to current and potential treatment strategies.

Combination of Hypertension Along with a High Fat and Cholesterol Diet Induces Severe Hepatic Inflammation in Rats via a Signaling Network Comprising NF-κB, MAPK, and Nrf2 Pathways

Populations with essential hypertension have a high risk of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In this study, we investigated the mechanism that underlies the progression of hypertension-associated NASH by comparing differences in the development of high fat and cholesterol (HFC) diet-induced NASH among three strains of rats, i.e., two hypertensive strains comprising spontaneously hypertensive rats and the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive 5/Dmcr, and the original Wistar Kyoto rats as the normotensive control. We investigated histopathological changes and molecular signals related to inflammation in the liver after feeding with the HFC diet for 8 weeks. The diet induced severe lobular inflammation and fibrosis in the livers of the hypertensive rats, whereas it only caused mild steatohepatitis in the normotensive rats. An increased activation of proinflammatory signaling (transforming growth factor-β1/mitogen-activated protein kinases pathway) was observed in the hypertensive strains fed with the HFC diet. In addition, the HFC diet suppressed the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway in the hypertensive rats and led to lower increases in the hepatic expression of heme oxygenase-1, which has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. In conclusion, these signaling pathways might play crucial roles in the development of hypertension-associated NASH.

Effects of propolis, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, and pollen on renal injury in hypertensive rat: An experimental and theoretical approach

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant effects of propolis, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE; active compound in propolis), and pollen on biochemical oxidative stress biomarkers in rat kidney tissue inhibited by N^ω -nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). The biomarkers evaluated were paraoxonase (PON1), oxidative stress index (OSI), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). TAS levels and PON1 activity were significantly decreased in kidney tissue samples in the L-NAME-treated group (P < 0.05). The levels of TAS and PONI were higher in the L-NAME plus propolis, CAPE, and pollen groups compared with the L-NAME-treated group. TOS, ADMA, and NF-κB levels were significantly increased in the kidney tissue samples of the L-NAME-treated group (P < 0.05). However, these parameters were significantly lower in the L-NAME plus propolis, CAPE, and pollen groups (P < 0.05) compared with rats administered L-NAME alone (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the binding energy of CAPE within catalytic domain of glutathione reductase (GR) enzyme as well as its inhibitory mechanism was determined using molecular modeling approaches. In conclusion, experimental and theoretical data suggested that oxidative alterations occurring in the kidney tissue of chronic hypertensive rats may be prevented via active compound of propolis, CAPE administration.

Lactacystin-Induced Model of Hypertension in Rats: Effects of Melatonin and Captopril

Lactacystin is a proteasome inhibitor that interferes with several factors involved in heart remodelling. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the chronic administration of lactacystin induces hypertension and heart remodelling and whether these changes can be modified by captopril or melatonin. In addition, the lactacystin-model was compared with NG-nitro-l-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME)- and continuous light-induced hypertension. Six groups of three-month-old male Wistar rats (11 per group) were treated for six weeks as follows: control (vehicle), L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day), continuous light (24 h/day), lactacystin (5 mg/kg/day) alone, and lactacystin with captopril (100 mg/kg/day), or melatonin (10 mg/kg/day). Lactacystin treatment increased systolic blood pressure (SBP) and induced fibrosis of the left ventricle (LV), as observed in L-NAME-hypertension and continuous light-hypertension. LV weight and the cross-sectional area of the aorta were increased only in L-NAME-induced hypertension. The level of oxidative load was preserved or reduced in all three models of hypertension. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity in the LV and kidney was unchanged in the lactacystin group. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) protein expression in the LV was increased in all treated groups in the cytoplasm, however, in neither group in the nucleus. Although melatonin had no effect on SBP, only this indolamine (but not captopril) reduced the concentration of insoluble and total collagen in the LV and stimulated the NO-pathway in the lactacystin group. We conclude that chronic administration of lactacystin represents a novel model of hypertension with collagenous rebuilding of the LV, convenient for testing antihypertensive drugs or agents exerting a cardiovascular benefit beyond blood pressure reduction.

Elevation of Oxidative Stress and Decline in Endogenous Antioxidant Defense in Elderly Individuals with Hypertension

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension is becoming an important medical and public health problem all over the world and is the most common disorder of ageing. There is a growing evidence of involvement of vascular oxidative stress in the development of hypertension from animal studies. However, studies on humans with hypertension, particularly in elderly are least and data remained controversial. Moreover, studies in elderly people with hypertension are scarce.

AIM

To investigate the possible role of oxidative stress and antioxidant defense in the pathogenesis of hypertension in elderly.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on elderly males (n=60) with newly diagnosed hypertension and with normal blood pressure. Oxidative stress and antioxidant status were evaluated by assessing the following parameters: plasma Malondialdehyde (MDA), and antioxidants: Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity, reduced Glutathione (GSH), and vitamin C levels; and total Nitric Oxide concentration in plasma (NOx). Difference between groups was determined by using unpaired t-test/Mann-Whitney U test. Bivariate correlation and multiple regression analysis were used to determine the relationship between variables.

RESULTS

A significant rise in plasma MDA (p-value=0.013) and lower levels of endogenous antioxidants: SOD (p-value≤0.001) and GSH (p-value≤0.001) were observed in elderly individuals with hypertension when compared to healthy controls. Though not significant, there was a mean decrease in plasma NOx in hypertensive subjects than normotensive ones. While vitamin C showed no significant difference between two groups. Decrease in GSH (β=-0.398; p-value=0.001) and SOD (β=-0.423; p-value≤0.001) were the significant determinants of hypertension in elderly individuals.

CONCLUSION

Above findings indicate that elevation in oxidative stress and decrease in endogenous antioxidant level may be involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension. However, it remains unclear whether oxidative stress causes or augments hypertension.

Oxidative imbalance and kidney damage in spontaneously hypertensive rats: activation of extrinsic apoptotic pathways

In both humans and animals, essential hypertension acts as a risk factor for subclinical kidney damage and precedes renal dysfunction. Several lines of evidence indicate that hypertension and oxidative stress are closely related. The increase in vascular oxidative stress plays a key role in the pathophysiological consequences of hypertension, including kidney disease. Our study examined this issue in spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), a reliable model of essential hypertension. We used SHR 20 weeks old when hypertension is stably developed, vascular remodeling started, but kidney function is preserved. We examined plasmatic pro-oxidant and antioxidant status showing a significant alteration in oxidative balance in SHR. As index of oxidative damage, we evaluated lipid peroxidation in kidney, liver, and skeletal muscle, detecting a significant rise in lipid peroxidation levels in all SHR tissues, particularly relevant in kidney. In addition, we analyzed the expression of cytoplasmic antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) and glutatione S-tranferasi P1 (GSTP1). In SHR liver, SOD1 expression slight increased while we have not detected any variation in other tissues. Concerning GSTP1, SHR renal tissues did not display variations in enzyme expression, while in the other tissues, we observed a significant increase in both monomeric and pro-apoptotic dimeric form of the enzyme. By analyzing apoptotic signal, we founded c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation in all SHR tissues, but only kidney presented extrinsic apoptotic pathway activation. Our results suggest that, in hypertensive animals with preserved renal function, despite the remarkable oxidative damage of renal tissues, only the extrinsic apoptotic pathway is activated.

New LC-MS/MS Method for the Analysis of Allura Red Level in Takeaway Chinese Dishes and Urine of an Adult Chinese Population

Allura red is a widely used synthetic food dye. In this study, we developed and validated a LC-MS/MS method for the quantification of allura red in three popular takeaway Chinese dishes (braised pork, soy sauce chicken, sweet and sour pork) and human urine samples. High levels of allura red ranging from 2.85 to 8.38 mg/g wet weight were detected in the surveyed Chinese dishes. Of 113 participants who frequently consume the surveyed Chinese dishes (>once a week in the past 2 years), the median of their urinary allura red level was 22.29 nM/mM creatinine (95% CI = 19.48-25.03) . Risk assessment using Cox proportional hazard models showed that a 10-fold increase in urinary allura red was positively associated with high blood pressure (odds ratio of 1.75 (95% CI = 0.78-3.96)). Our findings provide new insights for the potential risk of hypertension for long-term allura red overconsumption.