Effects of Flavonoid-Containing Beverages and EGCG on Endothelial Function

Abstract

Abnormalities of the vascular endothelium contribute to all stages of atherosclerosis from lesion development to clinical cardiovascular disease events. Recognized risk factors, including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cigarette smoking, and sedentary lifestyle are associated with endothelial dysfunction. A variety of pharmacological and behavioral interventions have been shown to reverse endothelial dysfunction in patients with cardiovascular disease. A large number of epidemiological studies suggest that dietary factors, including increased intake of flavonoidcontaining foods and beverages, reduce cardiovascular risk, and recent studies have shown that such beverages have favorable effects on endothelial function. These studies have engendered interest in the development of dietary supplements or drugs that would allow for more convenient and higher dose administration of flavonoids and might prove useful for prevention or treatment of cardiovascular disease. In this paper, we will review the contribution of endothelial dysfunction to the pathogenesis and clinical expression of atherosclerosis and recent data linking flavonoid and EGCG consumption to improved endothelial function and reduced cardiovascular risk.

Behavioural effects of compounds co-consumed in dietary forms of caffeinated plants

“…A further key mechanism of action of this flavonoid may be its potential to modulate blood flow, both in the periphery and the brain, via complex modulation of the expression of the three isoforms of NO synthase (42 -45) , which results in changes in vasodilation in the peripheral vasculature of animals (45 -48) , and in humans with coronary artery disease (49) . Similar effects have also been observed in healthy non-smokers (50,51) and smokers (52) following the consumption of tea.…”

Antiartherosclerotic Effects of Plant Flavonoids

“…Catechin is known to possess preventive effect in CVDs due to its involvement in oxidative process in atherogenesis [120]. Being antioxidant, catechin is able to modulate cellular signaling pathways that lead to elevation of vascular reactivity, platelet aggregation, and reduction of inflammation [121–124]. Diverse studies have been conducted using tea ( Camellia sinensis ) which contains catechin believed to play a major role as cardioprotective plant source [123].…”

Epigallocatechin-gallate stimulates NF-E2-related factor and heme oxygenase-1 via caveolin-1 displacement

“…Catechins are the major constituents of the polyphenols in green tea, and the most abundant catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG). Even though the consumption of flavonoids such as EGCG are known to improve endothelial cell function, and thus reduce cardiovascular risk [4], protective mechanisms are not clear but may be linked to caveolae signaling.…”