Role of Dietary Antioxidants in the Preservation of Vascular Function and the Modulation of Health and Disease

Abstract

In vascular diseases, including hypertension and atherosclerosis, vascular endothelial dysfunction (VED) occurs secondary to altered function of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). A novel redox regulated pathway was identified through which eNOS is uncoupled due to S-glutathionylation of critical cysteine residues, resulting in superoxide free radical formation instead of the vasodilator molecule, nitric oxide. In addition, the redox sensitive cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin, BH4, is also essential for eNOS coupling. Antioxidants, either individually or combined, can modulate eNOS uncoupling by scavenging free radicals or impairing specific radical generating pathways, thus preventing oxidative stress and ameliorating VED. Epidemiological evidence and dietary guidelines suggest that diets high in antioxidants, or antioxidant supplementation, could preserve vascular health and prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Therefore, the purpose of this review is to highlight the possible role of dietary antioxidants in regulating eNOS function and uncoupling which is critical for maintenance of vascular health with normal blood flow/circulation and prevention of VED. We hypothesize that a conditioned dietary approach with suitable antioxidants may limit systemic oxidation, maintain a beneficial ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione, and other redox markers, and minimize eNOS uncoupling serving to prevent CVD and possibly other chronic diseases.

Centaurium Erythraea Extracts Exert Vascular Effects through Endothelium- and Fibroblast-dependent Pathways

“…Several in vitro and epidemiological studies suggested an important role of herbal medicine extracts rich in polyphenols to preserve vascular health and to prevent cardiovascular diseases [13]. The oxidative stress results from a cellular imbalance between the effect of pro and antioxidants, in favor of the first, being considered as a factor that contributes to the atherogenic process [14].…”

Fibulin-3 Attenuates Phosphate-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Calcification by Inhibition of Oxidative Stress

“…Fibulin-3 has previously been suggested as an arterial growth factor [3, 6] as injection of Fibulin-3 protein increases aortic wall thickness in spontaneously hypertensive rats [10]. However, Fibulin-3 reduces systolic blood pressure and improves vascular health [10], at least in part, by reducing aortic oxidative stress [10-12] and expression of matrix gelatinases [10, 13]. In vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), gelatinase expression and activity are stimulated by excessive oxidative stress [14-17].…”

Physical activity in premenopausal women with asymptomatic peripheral arterial disease

“…Physical activity has been shown to greatly improve cardiovascular function, in part through the improved bioavailability of nitric oxide, enhanced endogenous antioxidant defense and a lowering of the expression of ROS-forming enzymes. 21,22 We suppose that physical activity modulates endothelial response to lipids and a synergy with a healthy diet such as a Mediterranean diet improves this positive effect. Endothelial dysfunction, which is a central mechanism leading to CVD and the redox switch could be modulated by physical activity (that acts directly on endothelium) and dietary factors reducing the risk of CVD onset.…”