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Swiderski J, Sakkal S, Apostolopoulos V, Zulli A, Gadanec LK. Combination of Taurine and Black Pepper Extract as a Treatment for Cardiovascular and Coronary Artery Diseases. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15112562. [PMID: 37299525 DOI: 10.3390/nu15112562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The shift in modern dietary regimens to "Western style" and sedentary lifestyles are believed to be partly responsible for the increase in the global burden of cardiovascular diseases. Natural products have been used throughout human history as treatments for a plethora of pathological conditions. Taurine and, more recently, black pepper have gained attention for their beneficial health effects while remaining non-toxic even when ingested in excess. Taurine, black pepper, and the major terpene constituents found in black pepper (i.e., β-caryophyllene; α-pinene; β-pinene; α-humulene; limonene; and sabinene) that are present in PhytoCann BP® have been shown to have cardioprotective effects based on anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-hypertensive and anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms. This comprehensive review of the literature focuses on determining whether the combination of taurine and black pepper extract is an effective natural treatment for reducing cardiovascular diseases risk factors (i.e., hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia) and for driving anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms to combat coronary artery disease, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and atherosclerotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Swiderski
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Samy Sakkal
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
- Immunology Program, Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Anthony Zulli
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Laura Kate Gadanec
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
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Rong Z, Li F, Zhang R, Niu S, Di X, Ni L, Liu C. Ant-Neointimal Formation Effects of SLC6A6 in Preventing Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Migration via Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033018. [PMID: 36769341 PMCID: PMC9917619 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play an important role in the pathogenesis of vascular remolding, such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. Solute carrier family 6 member 6 (SLC6A6) is a transmembrane transporter that maintains a variety of physiological functions and is highly expressed in VSMCs. However, its role on VSMCs during neointimal formation remains unknown. In this study, mRNA and protein levels of SLC6A6 were examined using models of VSMC phenotype switching in vivo and in vitro and human artery samples with or without atherosclerosis. SLC6A6 gain- and loss-of-function approaches were performed by adenovirus infection or small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection, respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), proliferation, migration, and phenotype-related proteins of VSMCs were measured. Vascular stenosis rate and related genes were assessed in a rat vascular balloon injury model overexpressing SLC6A6. SLC6A6 was downregulated in dedifferentiated VSMCs, atherosclerotic vascular tissues, and injured vascular tissues. SLC6A6 suppressed VSMC proliferation and migration, while increasing contractile VSMC proteins. Mechanistically, SLC6A6 overexpression reduced ROS production and inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Furthermore, SLC6A6 overexpression suppressed neointimal formation in vivo. Collectively, overexpression of SLC6A6 suppresses neointimal formation by inhibiting VSMC proliferation and migration via Wnt/β-catenin signaling and maintaining the VSMC contractile phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Leng Ni
- Correspondence: (L.N.); (C.L.); Tel.: +86-010-69152501 (L.N.); +86-010-69152500 (C.L.)
| | - Changwei Liu
- Correspondence: (L.N.); (C.L.); Tel.: +86-010-69152501 (L.N.); +86-010-69152500 (C.L.)
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ElBanna AH, Osman AS, Hossny A, ElBanna H, Abo El-Ela FI. Dose-dependent effects of taurine against testicular damage in a streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes mellitus rat model. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2023; 37:3946320231172745. [PMID: 37099672 PMCID: PMC10141268 DOI: 10.1177/03946320231172745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Testicular dysfunction has been associated with chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus patients. We investigated taurine's possible mechanisms and protective effects against testicular damage using a rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. METHODS Wistar rats (N = 56) were divided into seven equal groups. Untreated control rats received saline, and treated control rats received taurine 50 mg/kg orally. To induce diabetes, rats received a single dose of streptozotocin. Metformin-treated diabetic rats received metformin at a dose of 300 mg/kg. Taurine-treated groups received 10, 25, or 50 mg/kg. All treatments were provided orally once a day for 9 weeks following the streptozotocin injection. Levels of blood glucose, serum insulin, cholesterol, testicular tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT) were examined. Sperm count, progressive sperm motility, and sperm abnormalities were examined. Body and relative reproductive gland weights were assessed. Histopathological examinations of the testes and epididymis were performed. RESULTS Metformin as well as taurine (in a dose-dependent manner) resulted in significant improvements in body and relative reproductive gland weights, blood glucose, serum cholesterol, and insulin levels, as well as cytokine and oxidative parameters. These findings were associated with significant improvement in sperm count, progressive sperm motility, sperm abnormalities, and histopathological lesions in the testes and epididymis. CONCLUSION Taurine can potentially improve hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, and testicular damage associated with diabetes mellitus, possibly by controlling inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H ElBanna
- Michael Sayegh Faculty of Pharmacy, Aqaba University of Technology, Aqaba, Jordan
| | - Afaf S Osman
- Medical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Amira Hossny
- Faculty of Biotechnology, MSA University, October City, Egypt
| | - Hossny ElBanna
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Fatma I Abo El-Ela
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
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Yang JY, Zhang TT, Yu ZL, Wang CC, Zhao YC, Wang YM, Xue CH. Taurine Alleviates Trimethylamine N-Oxide-Induced Atherosclerosis by Regulating Bile Acid Metabolism in ApoE -/- Mice. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:5738-5747. [PMID: 35486890 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c01376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) widely exists in seafood and is associated with the atherosclerosis progress, but dietary seafood reduced the cardiovascular risk. This intimates that there may be some ingredients in seafood to offset the cardiovascular risk caused by TMAO. Taurine is a marker ingredient in seafood. Thus, this study determined the influences of taurine on TMAO-induced atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein-E-deficient mice. The results showed that dietary taurine significantly reduced the TMAO-induced atherosclerotic lesion area. Further studies found that taurine increased the hepatic- and serum-conjugated bile acid/unconjugated bile acid ratio via increasing hepatic gene expression of conjugated bile acid synthesis. Meanwhile, taurine changed TMAO-induced abnormal bile acid profiles in the gallbladder. Moreover, taurine increased bile acid deconjugation by enhancing the genera Ruminiclostridium level and increased excretion of fecal neutral sterols. Additionally, taurine attenuated inflammation in the serum and artery. These results indicate that taurine alleviated TMAO-induced atherosclerosis via regulating bile acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Yue Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian-Tian Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhu-Lin Yu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Cai Zhao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Ming Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Marine Drugs & Biological Products, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, Shandong 266237, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Hu Xue
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Marine Drugs & Biological Products, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, Shandong 266237, People's Republic of China
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Baliou S, Adamaki M, Ioannou P, Pappa A, Panayiotidis MI, Christodoulou I, Spandidos DA, Kyriakopoulos AM, Zoumpourlis V. Ameliorative effect of taurine against diabetes and renal-associated disorders (Review). MEDICINE INTERNATIONAL 2021; 1:3. [PMID: 36699147 PMCID: PMC9855276 DOI: 10.3892/mi.2021.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
To develop novel therapeutic methods for both diabetic and renal disorders, scientists had initially focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of taurine in established cell lines and mouse models. Although a large amount of data have been revealed, taurine has been confirmed to be the next step of novel promising therapeutic interventions against diabetic disorders. Taurine appears to ameliorate diabetes 1-related complications in various organs through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-hormonal actions. In type 2 diabetes, taurine has been positively implicated in glucose homeostasis, exerting potent hypoglycemic, anti-obesity, hypotensive and hypolipidemic effects. Of particular interest is that taurine provides protection against renal dysfunction, including hypertension and proteinuria, specific glomerular and tubular disorders, acute and chronic renal conditions, and diabetic nephropathy. The ameliorative effects of taurine against renal disorders are based on its osmoregulatory properties, its association with signaling pathways and its association with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Further clinical studies are required to ensure the importance of research findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Baliou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Adamaki
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Petros Ioannou
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Heraklion, 71110 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Aglaia Pappa
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Mihalis I. Panayiotidis
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Therapeutics and Ultrastructural Pathology, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus,Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Ioannis Christodoulou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71409 Heraklion, Greece
| | | | - Vassilis Zoumpourlis
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635 Athens, Greece,Correspondence to: Dr Vassilis Zoumpourlis, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vas. Konstantinou Avenue, 11635 Athens, Greece
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Myeloperoxidase: A versatile mediator of endothelial dysfunction and therapeutic target during cardiovascular disease. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 221:107711. [PMID: 33137376 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is a prominent mammalian heme peroxidase and a fundamental component of the innate immune response against microbial pathogens. In recent times, MPO has received considerable attention as a key oxidative enzyme capable of impairing the bioactivity of nitric oxide (NO) and promoting endothelial dysfunction; a clinically relevant event that manifests throughout the development of inflammatory cardiovascular disease. Increasing evidence indicates that during cardiovascular disease, MPO is released intravascularly by activated leukocytes resulting in its transport and sequestration within the vascular endothelium. At this site, MPO catalyzes various oxidative reactions that are capable of promoting vascular inflammation and impairing NO bioactivity and endothelial function. In particular, MPO catalyzes the production of the potent oxidant hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and the catalytic consumption of NO via the enzyme's NO oxidase activity. An emerging paradigm is the ability of MPO to also influence endothelial function via non-catalytic, cytokine-like activities. In this review article we discuss the implications of our increasing knowledge of the versatility of MPO's actions as a mediator of cardiovascular disease and endothelial dysfunction for the development of new pharmacological agents capable of effectively combating MPO's pathogenic activities. More specifically, we will (i) discuss the various transport mechanisms by which MPO accumulates into the endothelium of inflamed or diseased arteries, (ii) detail the clinical and basic scientific evidence identifying MPO as a significant cause of endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease, (iii) provide an up-to-date coverage on the different oxidative mechanisms by which MPO can impair endothelial function during cardiovascular disease including an evaluation of the contributions of MPO-catalyzed HOCl production and NO oxidation, and (iv) outline the novel non-enzymatic mechanisms of MPO and their potential contribution to endothelial dysfunction. Finally, we deliver a detailed appraisal of the different pharmacological strategies available for targeting the catalytic and non-catalytic modes-of-action of MPO in order to protect against endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular disease.
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Zaric BL, Radovanovic JN, Gluvic Z, Stewart AJ, Essack M, Motwalli O, Gojobori T, Isenovic ER. Atherosclerosis Linked to Aberrant Amino Acid Metabolism and Immunosuppressive Amino Acid Catabolizing Enzymes. Front Immunol 2020; 11:551758. [PMID: 33117340 PMCID: PMC7549398 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.551758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the leading global health concern and responsible for more deaths worldwide than any other type of disorder. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in the arterial wall, which underpins several types of cardiovascular disease. It has emerged that a strong relationship exists between alterations in amino acid (AA) metabolism and the development of atherosclerosis. Recent studies have reported positive correlations between levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) such as leucine, valine, and isoleucine in plasma and the occurrence of metabolic disturbances. Elevated serum levels of BCAAs indicate a high cardiometabolic risk. Thus, BCAAs may also impact atherosclerosis prevention and offer a novel therapeutic strategy for specific individuals at risk of coronary events. The metabolism of AAs, such as L-arginine, homoarginine, and L-tryptophan, is recognized as a critical regulator of vascular homeostasis. Dietary intake of homoarginine, taurine, and glycine can improve atherosclerosis by endothelium remodeling. Available data also suggest that the regulation of AA metabolism by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and arginases 1 and 2 are mediated through various immunological signals and that immunosuppressive AA metabolizing enzymes are promising therapeutic targets against atherosclerosis. Further clinical studies and basic studies that make use of animal models are required. Here we review recent data examining links between AA metabolism and the development of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bozidarka L. Zaric
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, “VINČA” Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena N. Radovanovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, “VINČA” Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zoran Gluvic
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Faculty of Medicine, University Clinical-Hospital Centre Zemun-Belgrade, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Alan J. Stewart
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Magbubah Essack
- Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division (CEMSE), Computational Bioscience Research Center, Computer (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Olaa Motwalli
- College of Computing and Informatics, Saudi Electronic University (SEU), Medina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Takashi Gojobori
- Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division (CEMSE), Computational Bioscience Research Center, Computer (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esma R. Isenovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, “VINČA” Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Choi WS, Lee JS. The Effect of Taurine Intake among Korean College Students: Serum Biochemistry and Blood Hematology. KOREAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.15324/kjcls.2018.50.3.236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Woo-Soon Choi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Songho University, Hoengseong, Korea
| | - Jae-Sik Lee
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Hyejeon College, Hongseong, Korea
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Jugdaohsingh R, Kessler K, Messner B, Stoiber M, Pedro LD, Schima H, Laufer G, Powell JJ, Bernhard D. Dietary Silicon Deficiency Does Not Exacerbate Diet-Induced Fatty Lesions in Female ApoE Knockout Mice. J Nutr 2015; 145:1498-506. [PMID: 25972522 PMCID: PMC4478943 DOI: 10.3945/jn.114.206193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary silicon has been positively linked with vascular health and protection against atherosclerotic plaque formation, but the mechanism of action is unclear. OBJECTIVES We investigated the effect of dietary silicon on 1) serum and aorta silicon concentrations, 2) the development of aortic lesions and serum lipid concentrations, and 3) the structural and biomechanic properties of the aorta. METHODS Two studies, of the same design, were conducted to address the above objectives. Female mice, lacking the apolipoprotein E (apoE) gene, and therefore susceptible to atherosclerosis, were separated into 3 groups of 10-15 mice, each exposed to a high-fat diet (21% wt milk fat and 1.5% wt cholesterol) but with differing concentrations of dietary silicon, namely: silicon-deprived (-Si; <3-μg silicon/g feed), silicon-replete in feed (+Si-feed; 100-μg silicon/g feed), and silicon-replete in drinking water (+Si-water; 115-μg silicon/mL) for 15-19 wk. Silicon supplementation was in the form of sodium metasilicate (feed) or monomethylsilanetriol (drinking water). RESULTS The serum silicon concentration in the -Si group was significantly lower than in the +Si-feed (by up to 78%; P < 0.003) and the +Si-water (by up to 84%; P < 0.006) groups. The aorta silicon concentration was also lower in the -Si group than in the +Si-feed group (by 65%; P = 0.025), but not compared with the +Si-water group. There were no differences in serum and aorta silicon concentrations between the silicon-replete groups. Body weights, tissue wet weights at necropsy, and structural, biomechanic, and morphologic properties of the aorta were not affected by dietary silicon; nor were the development of fatty lesions and serum lipid concentrations. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that dietary silicon has no effect on atherosclerosis development and vascular health in the apoE mouse model of diet-induced atherosclerosis, contrary to the reported findings in the cholesterol-fed rabbit model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravin Jugdaohsingh
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Human Nutrition Research, Elsie Widdowson Laboratory, Cambridge, United Kingdom;
| | - Katharina Kessler
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Human Nutrition Research, Elsie Widdowson Laboratory, Cambridge, United Kingdom;,Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, and
| | - Barbara Messner
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, and
| | - Martin Stoiber
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria;,Ludwig-Boltzmann-Cluster for Cardiovascular Research, Vienna, Austria; and
| | - Liliana D Pedro
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Human Nutrition Research, Elsie Widdowson Laboratory, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Heinrich Schima
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria;,Ludwig-Boltzmann-Cluster for Cardiovascular Research, Vienna, Austria; and
| | - Günther Laufer
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, and
| | - Jonathan J Powell
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Human Nutrition Research, Elsie Widdowson Laboratory, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David Bernhard
- Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratories, Department of Surgery, and,Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory Innsbruck, University Clinic for Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Effect of taurine and potential interactions with caffeine on cardiovascular function. Amino Acids 2014; 46:1147-57. [PMID: 24615238 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-014-1708-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The major impetus behind the rise in energy drink popularity among adults is their ability to heighten mental alertness, improve physical performance and supply energy. However, accompanying the exponential growth in energy drink usage have been recent case reports and analyses from the National Poison Data System, raising questions regarding the safety of energy drinks. Most of the safety concerns have centered on the effect of energy drinks on cardiovascular and central nervous system function. Although the effects of caffeine excess have been widely studied, little information is available on potential interactions between the other active ingredients of energy drinks and caffeine. One of the active ingredients often mentioned as a candidate for interactions with caffeine is the beta-amino acid, taurine. Although taurine is considered a conditionally essential nutrient for humans and is thought to play a key role in several human diseases, clinical studies evaluating the effects of taurine are limited. However, based on this review regarding possible interactions between caffeine and taurine, we conclude that taurine should neutralize several untoward effects of caffeine excess. In agreement with this conclusion, the European Union's Scientific Committee on Food published a report in March 2003 summarizing its investigation into potential interactions of the ingredients in energy drinks. At the cardiovascular level, they concluded that "if there are any interactions between caffeine and taurine, taurine might reduce the cardiovascular effects of caffeine." Although these interactions remain to be further examined in humans, the physiological functions of taurine appear to be inconsistent with the adverse cardiovascular symptoms associated with excessive consumption of caffeine-taurine containing beverages.
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Taurine improves obesity-induced inflammatory responses and modulates the unbalanced phenotype of adipose tissue macrophages. Mol Nutr Food Res 2013; 57:2155-65. [DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201300150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Revised: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Abstract
Taurine is abundantly present in most mammalian tissues and plays a role in many important physiological functions. Atherosclerosis is the underlying mechanism of cardiovascular disease including myocardial infarctions, strokes and peripheral artery disease and remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Studies conducted in laboratory animal models using both genetic and dietary models of hyperlipidemia have demonstrated that taurine supplementation retards the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Epidemiological studies have also suggested that taurine exerts preventive effects on cardiovascular diseases. The present review focuses on the effects of taurine on the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In addition, the potential mechanisms by which taurine suppress the development of atherosclerosis will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Murakami
- R&D Headquarters, Self Medication Business, Taisho Pharmaceutical Co Ltd, 24-1 Takada 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, 170-8633, Japan,
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Imae M, Asano T, Murakami S. Potential role of taurine in the prevention of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Amino Acids 2012; 46:81-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-012-1434-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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14
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Ikubo N, Saito M, Tsounapi P, Dimitriadis F, Ohmasa F, Inoue S, Shimizu S, Kinoshita Y, Satoh K. Protective effect of taurine on diabetic rat endothelial dysfunction. Biomed Res 2011; 32:187-93. [DOI: 10.2220/biomedres.32.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Murakami S, Sakurai T, Toda Y, Morito A, Sakono M, Fukuda N. Prevention of neointima formation by taurine ingestion after carotid balloon injury. Vascul Pharmacol 2010; 53:177-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2010.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2010] [Revised: 06/27/2010] [Accepted: 07/13/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Cheng KK, Benson GM, Grimsditch DC, Reid DG, Connor SC, Griffin JL. Metabolomic study of the LDL receptor null mouse fed a high-fat diet reveals profound perturbations in choline metabolism that are shared with ApoE null mice. Physiol Genomics 2010; 41:224-31. [PMID: 20197419 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00188.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Failure to express or expression of dysfunctional low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) causes familial hypercholesterolemia in humans, a disease characterized by elevated blood cholesterol concentrations, xanthomas, and coronary heart disease, providing compelling evidence that high blood cholesterol concentrations cause atherosclerosis. In this study, we used (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to examine the metabolic profiles of plasma and urine from the LDLR knockout mice. Consistent with previous studies, these mice developed hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis when fed a high-fat/cholesterol/cholate-containing diet. In addition, multivariate statistical analysis of the metabolomic data highlighted significant differences in tricarboxylic acid cycle and fatty acid metabolism, as a result of high-fat/cholesterol diet feeding. Our metabolomic study also demonstrates that the effect of high-fat/cholesterol/cholate diet, LDLR gene deficiency, and the diet-genotype interaction caused a significant perturbation in choline metabolism, notably the choline oxidation pathway. Specifically, the loss in the LDLR caused a marked reduction in the urinary excretion of betaine and dimethylglycine, especially when the mice are fed a high-fat/cholesterol/cholate diet. Furthermore, as we demonstrate that these metabolic changes are comparable with those detected in ApoE knockout mice fed the same high-fat/cholesterol/cholate diet they may be useful for monitoring the onset of atherosclerosis across animal models.
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Wójcik OP, Koenig KL, Zeleniuch-Jacquotte A, Costa M, Chen Y. The potential protective effects of taurine on coronary heart disease. Atherosclerosis 2009; 208:19-25. [PMID: 19592001 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2009.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2008] [Revised: 05/29/2009] [Accepted: 06/02/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In humans, taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) is mainly obtained from diet. Despite the fact that the health effects of taurine are largely unknown, taurine has become a popular supplement and ingredient in energy drinks in recent years. Evidence from mechanistic and animal studies has shown that the main biological actions of taurine include its ability to conjugate bile acids, regulate blood pressure (BP), and act as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. These actions suggest that high levels of taurine may be protective against coronary heart disease (CHD). However, data from epidemiologic and intervention studies in humans are limited. We review what is known about taurine's metabolism, its transportation in the body, its food sources, and evidence of its effect on cardiovascular health from in vitro, animal, and epidemiologic studies. We also discuss shortcomings of the human studies that need to be addressed in the future. The identification of taurine as a preventive factor for CHD may be of great public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oktawia P Wójcik
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 650 FirstAvenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Murakami S, Sakurai T, Tomoike H, Sakono M, Nasu T, Fukuda N. Prevention of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in the hyperlipidemia- and atherosclerosis-prone Japanese (LAP) quail by taurine supplementation. Amino Acids 2009; 38:271-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-009-0247-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2008] [Accepted: 01/19/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Yamori Y, Liu L, Mori M, Sagara M, Murakami S, Nara Y, Mizushima S. Taurine as the Nutritional Factor for the Longevity of the Japanese Revealed by a World-Wide Epidemiological Survey. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2009; 643:13-25. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-75681-3_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
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Yamori Y, Murakami S, Ikeda K, Nara Y. Fish and lifestyle-related disease prevention: experimental and epidemiological evidence for anti-atherogenic potential of taurine. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2008; 31 Suppl 2:S20-3. [PMID: 15649278 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2004.04122.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
1. Taurine supplementation attenuated the development of hypertension and stroke in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP). 2. WHO-CARDIAC (Cardiovascular Diseases Alimentary Comparison) study revealed wide differences in 24-h urinary taurine excretion, which were inversely associated with age-adjusted mortality rates of coronary heart diseases (CHD). 3. Hypercholesterolemia as well as arterial fat deposition related to the cause of CHD was attenuated by dietary taurine supplementation in SHRSP on high-fat cholesterol diet. 4. Taurine affected the gene expression of 7alpha-hydroxylase and thus regulated serum cholesterol level through the control of the rate limiting step of cholesterol excretion into bile acids. 5. Taurine attenuated atherogenesis due to the control of oxidative stress through the inhibition of the production of oxidative LDL and to its scavenger effect on hypochlorous acid (HOCl) from leucocytes and macrophages. 6. Taurine may act as an immunomodulator of cytokine production, which is involved in atherogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukio Yamori
- International Center for Research on Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mukogawa Women's University, Nishinomiya, Japan.
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Abstract
It is known that plasma lipid levels are controlled not only by dietary fat and carbohydrate but also by dietary protein and amino acids. Although it used to be thought that the source of protein was important, it is known that amino acid composition, amino acids themselves, and peptides from digested protein are more important than the protein source. Sulfur-containing amino acids (SAAs) are recognized to be some of the most potent modulators of lipid metabolism among amino acids. It has been demonstrated that SAAs have an increasing effect on HDL (high-density lipoprotein)-cholesterol and a decreasing effect on VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein)-cholesterol. These data lead us to propose that SAAs have some beneficial functions against atherosclerotic diseases and metabolic syndrome. Relative availability of SAAs (RASAA) as well as the amount of SAAs in dietary protein would determine lipid metabolism. Therefore, we propose RASAA as a feasible index for improvement of lipid metabolism by amino acids. Although it is not clear how SAAs influence gene expression and lipid metabolism at a molecular level, SAAs change the metabolic pathway through transcriptional stimulation and posttranslational modification of regulatory proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Oda
- Laboratory of Nutritional Biochemistry, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan.
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Yoshimura H, Nariai Y, Terashima M, Mitani T, Tanigawa Y. Taurine suppresses platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) BB-induced PDGF-β receptor phosphorylation by protein tyrosine phosphatase-mediated dephosphorylation in vascular smooth muscle cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2005; 1745:350-60. [PMID: 16112211 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2005.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2005] [Revised: 07/06/2005] [Accepted: 07/19/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In atherosclerosis, abnormal vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation plays an important role to form fibroproliferative lesions and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB is one of the most potent chemoattractants and proliferative factors for VSMCs. Taurine, sulfur-containing beta-amino acid, has been considered to prevent the development of atherosclerosis, although the molecular mechanism remains obscure. Previously, we demonstrated that taurine significantly suppressed PDGF-BB-induced cell proliferation, DNA synthesis, immediate-early gene expressions and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 phosphorylation in VSMCs. The present study was aimed at elucidating the precise molecular mechanism of taurine in PDGF-BB signaling pathway. We showed that taurine significantly suppressed PDGF-BB-induced phosphorylation of PDGF-beta receptor and activation of its downstream signaling molecules such as Ras, MAPK/ERK kinase (MEK)1/2 and Akt. Because taurine did not attenuate phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)-induced PDGF-beta receptor-independent ERK1/2 phosphorylation, we further investigated the suppressive mechanism of taurine in PDGF-beta receptor level. Although taurine did not directly affect PDGF receptor autophosphorylation in vitro, taurine promoted PDGF-beta receptor dephosphorylation and restored PDGF-BB-induced suppression of protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPase) activity. Taken together, we propose that taurine could prevent or delay the progression of atherosclerosis by PTPase-mediated suppression of PDGF-beta receptor phosphorylation, and by decreasing the activation of its downstream signaling molecules in VSMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Yoshimura
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo 693-8501, Japan
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Franconi F, Di Leo MAS, Bennardini F, Ghirlanda G. Is taurine beneficial in reducing risk factors for diabetes mellitus? Neurochem Res 2004; 29:143-50. [PMID: 14992273 DOI: 10.1023/b:nere.0000010443.05899.2f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Taurine is a semiessential amino acid, and its deficiency is involved in retinal and cardiac degenerations. In recent years, it was found that diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with taurine, and many in vivo experimental studies showed that taurine administration is able to reduce the alterations induced by DM in the retina, lens, and peripheral nerve, although its effects on diabetic kidney are dubious. Interestingly, long-term taurine supplementation reduces the mortality rate in diabetic rats. The mechanisms by which taurine exerts beneficial effects in DM are discussed below. Recently, it has been suggested that taurine deficiency may alter the endocrine pancreas "fetal programming," increasing the risk of insulin resistance in adult life. The bulk of experimental data suggests that taurine administration could be useful in the treatment of type 1 DM and in the prevention of insulin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Franconi
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Biotechnology Development and Biodiversity Research, University of Sassari, Italy.
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25
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Abstract
Atherosclerosis-related ischemic heart diseases are the principal cause of death in the last few years. Recently, several reports implicated that taurine, sulfur-containing beta-amino acid, prevented the progression of atherosclerosis through various anti-pathogenetic modifications. Firstly, taurine treatment inhibited lipid peroxidation and/or lowered serum LDL/VLDL cholesterol and elevated HDL, and as a result, it prevented lipid accumulation on the aortic valve in hypercholesterolaemic animals. Secondly, taurine administration prevented endothelial dysfunction, one of the initial events in the formation of lesions of atherosclerosis, through the amelioration of the impairment of monocyte function. Thirdly, while it is well known that taurine scavenges hypochlorous acid (HOCl) produced by myeloperoxidase in neutrophils and macrophages, recent studies revealed that HOCl was one of the major factors oxidizing LDL, implying that the anti-oxidative role of taurine contributes to the anti-atherosclerotic effect. Additionally, TauCl, produced by the reaction of taurine with HOCl, inhibits the activation of NF-kappaB followed by the inhibition of the production of the pro-inflammatory mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ito
- Department of Clinical Evaluation of Medicines and Therapeutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita City, Japan
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Golubnitschaja O, Moenkemann H, Kim K, Mozaffari MS. DNA damage and expression of checkpoint genes p21(WAF1/CIP1) and 14-3-3 sigma in taurine-deficient cardiomyocytes. Biochem Pharmacol 2003; 66:511-7. [PMID: 12907251 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-2952(03)00285-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Taurine depletion is associated with development of cardiomyopathy. Further, oxidative stress is advanced as a critical factor mediating the effect of taurine deficiency on target organs. However, the molecular mechanism(s) linking taurine deficiency with the development of cardiomyopathy remains elusive. Since transition between apoptotic degeneration and cell proliferation in stress conditions is regulated at cell cycle checkpoints, we determined the expression of two such genes, namely p21(WAF1/CIP1) and 14-3-3 sigma as well as p53 that are responsible for oxidative stress and DNA damage. We also carried out quantitative determination of DNA damage. METHODS Cardiomyocytes from beta-alanine-induced taurine-depleted (TD) rats were used for this investigation. Single- and double-stranded DNA damage was quantified using comet assay analysis. Western blot and two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with immunoblotting analysis were applied for protein analysis. RESULTS Comet assay analysis indicated that the extent of double-stranded DNA damage was greater in TD than in control cardiomyocytes. Whereas only traces of both p53 and p21(WAF1/CIP1) and no detectable expression of 14-3-3 sigma were found in cardiomyocytes of control animals, the TD cardiomyocytes expressed all three genes. CONCLUSIONS DNA damage and the consequent up-regulation of checkpoint proteins observed in TD cardiomyocytes indicate the involvement of cell cycle control mechanisms in the effect of taurine deficiency on cardiomyocytes. Single- and double-stranded DNA damage and the consequent arrest of cell proliferation in both G(1) and G(2) phases of the cell cycle induced by checkpoint proteins may trigger the cardiomyopathy that is associated with taurine deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Golubnitschaja
- Department of Radiology, Division of Molecular/Experimental Radiology, University of Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, D-53105 Bonn, Germany.
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Zulli A, Widdop RE, Hare DL, Buxton BF, Black MJ. High methionine and cholesterol diet abolishes endothelial relaxation. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2003; 23:1358-63. [PMID: 12791673 DOI: 10.1161/01.atv.0000080686.39871.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High plasma cholesterol or homocysteine is a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Cholesterol and methionine, the precursor of homocysteine, are rarely eaten separately. Thus, the aims of this study were to determine neointima formation, aortic reactivity, and factors involved in endothelial function in rabbits fed high dietary cholesterol, methionine, or a combination of the two for 12 weeks. METHODS AND RESULTS Rabbit dietary groups were randomized into the following: control (Con), 0.5% cholesterol (Chol), 1% methionine (Meth), and 1% methionine+0.5% cholesterol (MethChol). Aortic reactivity was studied by isometric tension techniques, aortic volumetric analysis was determined by stereological techniques, and immunohistochemistry was used to localize endothelial and inducible NO synthases, superoxide dismutase, macrophages, and nitrotyrosine. Atherosclerosis was present in the Chol and MethChol groups. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was virtually abolished in the MethChol group compared with control. Such decrease in relaxation was not attributable to a vascular smooth muscle cell defect or to a decrease in endothelial NO synthase or superoxide dismutase content. Macrophages and inducible NO synthase immunoreactivity were present in Chol and MetChol groups. CONCLUSIONS The combination of high dietary cholesterol plus methionine virtually abolishes endothelium-dependent relaxation, underscoring the importance of multiple risk factors in the development of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Zulli
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia.
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Synthesis of new C-sulfosugars and C-sulfoalditols: Amadori rearrangement of 6-C-sulfo-d-fucose. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0957-4166(03)00160-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Matsushima Y, Sekine T, Kondo Y, Sakurai T, Kameo K, Tachibana M, Murakami S. Effects of taurine on serum cholesterol levels and development of atherosclerosis in spontaneously hyperlipidaemic mice. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2003; 30:295-9. [PMID: 12680850 DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1681.2003.03828.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
1. The effects of two naturally occurring substances, namely taurine and catechins, on serum cholesterol levels and on the progression of atherosclerotic lesions were evaluated using spontaneously hyperlipidaemic (SHL) mice as an animal model of atherogenesis. 2. Twelve weeks treatment of SHL mice with taurine (1% in drinking water) significantly elevated serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels without affecting levels of low-density lipoprotein- and very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol. In addition, taurine suppressed the development of atherosclerotic lesions by 29%, as determined by oil red O-stained areas in cross-sections of the aorta. 3. In contrast, 12 weeks treatment with a catechin mixture had no apparent effect on serum cholesterol levels and on the progression of atherosclerosis. 4. Serum levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, an index of oxidized substances, significantly decreased from 9.6 to 6.7 nmol/mL following taurine treatment. 5. We suggest that retardation of atherosclerosis by taurine in SHL mice may be related to decreases in oxidized substances and increases in serum HDL-C levels.
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Murakami S, Kondo Y, Sakurai T, Kitajima H, Nagate T. Taurine suppresses development of atherosclerosis in Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic (WHHL) rabbits. Atherosclerosis 2002; 163:79-87. [PMID: 12048124 DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9150(01)00764-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
While the hypocholesterolemic effects of taurine have extensively been studied using experimental animals, the anti-atherosclerotic effects of taurine have been given less attention. We examined the effect of taurine on atherosclerotic lesions in Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic (WHHL) rabbits. Treatment of WHHL rabbits with taurine (0.3% in drinking tap water) for 24 weeks decreased aortic lesions by 31%, estimated as intimal thickening. Taurine significantly decreased cholesteryl ester content of aortic arch, thoracic aorta, and abdominal aorta by 35, 43, and 54%, respectively. Concomitantly, activity of acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT), an enzyme responsible for cholesterol esterification, was also significantly decreased. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed decreased macrophages in the intima of taurine-treated rabbits. Taurine had no apparent effect on blood pressure and serum cholesterol levels. Contents of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), a marker of lipid peroxidation, was reduced in serum and aorta by 29 and 50%, respectively, when taurine was ingested. In addition, LDL from taurine-treated rabbits was resistant to copper-induced oxidative modification. These results revealed that taurine prevents development of atherosclerosis and that the anti-atherosclerotic effects of taurine are independent of serum cholesterol levels. The anti-oxidant action of taurine may be involved in inhibiting atherosclerosis in these rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Murakami
- Medicinal Research Laboratories, Taisho Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Saitama, Japan.
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