Sesamin, a major lignin isolated from sesame (
Sesamum indicum
) seeds and sesame oil, is known to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies have revealed that oxidative stress and inflammation play a major role in a variety of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This comprehensive review summarizes the evidence on the effects of sesamin on CVD and its risk factors, principally due to its antioxidant properties. Specifically, this review highlights the mechanisms underlying the anti-hypertensive, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity, lipolytic effects of sesamin both
in vivo
and
in vitro
, and identifies the signaling pathways targeted by sesamin and its metabolites. The data indicates that RAS/MAPK, PI3K/AKT, ERK1/2, p38, p53, IL-6, TNFα, and NF-κB signaling networks are all involved in moderating the various effects of sesamin on CVD and its risk factors. In conclusion, the experimental evidence suggesting that sesamin can reduce CVD risk is convincing. Thus, sesamin can be potentially useful as an adjuvant therapeutic agent to combat CVD and its multitude of risk factors.
Objective 1) To assess the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in a university population, and 2) to investigate the effects of an 8-week exercise intervention on CVD risk factors. Methods Forty-six students participated in this study. Baseline cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed using maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max). Total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol and triglycerides were measured. Body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip circumference ratio (WHR), blood pressure (BP) and arterial stiffness were also assessed. Participants performed 8weeks of exercise consisting of 60 min of moderate-high intensity exercise three times a week, and all parameters were repeated following the 8-week program. Results Participants were divided into an apparently healthy control group (BMI < 25 kg/m2) and an overweight/obese experimental group (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Both groups had low cardiorespiratory fitness and clear evidence of risk for CVD. Following the 8-week program, participants demonstrated significant improvement in biochemical parameters and in overall fitness (p < 0.05). WHRs decreased whilst peak oxygen volumes increased when comparing baseline and post-exercise values (p < 0.05). BMI decreased in both groups following exercise (p < 0.05). Systolic BP was surprisingly elevated in nearly 30% of participants, but was comparatively lower in the control group (p < 0.05). There was a clear increase in HDL-cholesterol values post-intervention (p < 0.05). Conclusion Early detection of CVD risk factors, particularly in a young population, can lead to earlier prevention of disease through lifestyle changes. Moreover, short-term exercise can have important effects on reducing CVD risk factors, improving body composition and overall cardiorespiratory fitness.
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