Citrus paradisi (grapefruit) consumption is considered as beneficial and it is popularly used for the treatment of a vast array of diseases, including hypertension. In the present study, the coronary vasodilator and hypotensive effects of Citrus paradisi peel extract were assessed in the Langendorff isolated and perfused heart model and in the heart and lung dog preparation. In both models, Citrus paradisi peel extract decreased coronary vascular resistance and mean arterial pressure when compared with control values (60 +/- 15 x 10(7) dyn s cm(-5) vs 100 +/- 10 x 10(7) dyn s cm(-5) and 90 mmHg vs 130 +/- 15 mmHg, respectively). These decreases in coronary vascular resistance and mean arterial pressure were blocked when isolated and perfused hearts and mongrel dogs were pre-treated with L-NAME. In humans, Citrus paradisi juice decreased diastolic arterial pressure and systolic arterial pressure both in normotensive and hypertensive subjects. Citrus paradisi juice produced a greater decrease in mean arterial pressure when compared with Citrus sinensis juice, cow milk and a vitamin C-supplemented beverage. However, more detailed studies are required to isolate, purify and evaluate the chemical compounds responsible for this pharmacological effect and to clarify its possible role for treating hypertension.

Clofibrate-induced PPAR-α stimulation changes the angiotensin II receptor profile, favors the ACE2/angiotensin-(1-7)/AT2 receptor axis decreasing the vasoconstrictor environment, activates the antioxidant defense, and facilitates endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity favoring vasodilation. This may represent a protection for the stressed heart.

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Vulgarenol, a sesquiterpene isolated from Magnolia grandiflora flower petals, decreased coronary vascular resistance in the Langendorff isolated and perfused heart model, when compared to the control group [(15

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