Cardiovascular Effects Induced by Fruit Peels from Passiflora edulis in Hypertensive Rats and Fingerprint Analysis by HPLC-ESI-MSn spectrometry

Abstract

Hypertension is a chronic disease and a global health problem. Due to its high prevalence, it constitutes the most important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fruit peels from Passiflora edulis fo. flavicarpa are rich in bioactive natural compounds that may have action in hypertension. This study aimed to perform a fingerprinting analysis of Passiflora edulis fruit peel extract and evaluate its actions on the cardiovascular system in an in vivo model. The extract was obtained from the dried and powdered fruit peels of Passiflora edulis. Glycoside flavonoids were identified in the extract by HPLC-ESI-MSn. The extract showed a significant hypotensive effect after 28 days of treatment and improved vascular function in the mesenteric artery. This effect was verified by decreased vascular hypercontractility and increased vasorelaxant in response to sodium nitroprusside and acetylcholine. There was also a decrease in endothelial dysfunction, which can be attributed to nitric oxideʼs increased bioavailability. Thus, we hypothesize that all these effects contributed to a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance, leading to a significant hypotensive effect. These results are novel for fruit peels from P. edulis. Also, there was a decrease in plasma and cardiac malondialdehyde levels and an increase in glutathione, suggesting a reduction in oxidative stress, as well as an increase of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 in the plasma. This study demonstrated that the extract can be a new source of raw material to be applied as food or medicine adjuvant for treating hypertension.

The nephroprotective action of Passiflora edulis in streptozotocin-induced diabetes

“…Although the primary mechanism through which AFA extract can afford nephroprotection in diabetes remains unknown, previous studies performed by partner research groups have demonstrated the adjuvant effect of P. edulis fruit peel extracts in terms of glycemic control in diabetic rats 14,15 . These previous studies have suggested that polysaccharides, such as pectin and flavonoids (orientin and isoorientin), are associated with the hypoglycemic effect of the extract and, consequently, prevent the emergence of diabetes complications 14,15 . Additionally, studies have revealed that pectin and other soluble fibers present in the extract can create a layer of gel-like substances in the stomach, delaying the absorption of food and reducing serum glucose 35 .…”

“…Preparation of the AFA extract. The AFA extract was obtained and characterized as described by Cabral et al 15 . Briefly, seeds and pulp were removed, and peels were dried in an air circulation oven (55 °C) for two days and mechanically triturated to obtain a dry powder (flour) 15 .…”

“…(Passifloraceae), popularly known as the yellow passion fruit. Previous pharmacological studies have reported the P. edulis-mediated anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-inflammatory agent effects, in addition to other effects such as the attenuation of diabetes complications [14][15][16][17] .Herein, we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of P. edulis fruit peel aqueous (AFA) extract adjuvant to insulin as a potential nephroprotective agent against streptozotocin-induced diabetes.…”

“…(Passifloraceae), popularly known as the yellow passion fruit. Previous pharmacological studies have reported the P. edulis-mediated anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-inflammatory agent effects, in addition to other effects such as the attenuation of diabetes complications [14][15][16][17] .…”

Constituent Characteristics and Functional Properties of Passion Fruit Seed Extract

“…It has also been evaluated in animal studies for its safety when administered [19]. P. edulis peel is rich in dietary fiber and functional components, and various physiological effects of P. edulis peel extract have been reported, such as antihypotensive effects [20], hypoglycemic effects [21,22], and metabolic improvement [23,24]. Furthermore, P. edulis bark reportedly has anti-obesity properties [25].…”