This experimental study indicates that the proatherogenic effects induced by perturbed shear stress can be reversed by chronic administration of pomegranate juice. This approach may have implications for the prevention or treatment of atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations.
Atherosclerosis is enhanced in arterial segments exposed to disturbed flow. Perturbed shear stress increases the expression of oxidation-sensitive responsive genes (such as ELK-1 and p-JUN) in the endothelium. Evidence suggests that polyphenolic antioxidants contained in the juice derived from the pomegranate can contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress and atherogenesis.
This experimental study indicates that the proatherogenic effects induced by perturbed shear stress can be reversed by chronic administration of pomegranate juice. This approach may have implications for the prevention or treatment of atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations.
PNAS vol. 102 no. 13