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Effects of a Functional Product derived from Beet Molasses Vinasse on Blood Pressure and Endothelial Function in Hypertensive Rats
* 1 , 1 , 1 , 2 , 2 , 2
1  Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad de Burgos, Plaza Misael Bañuelos, 09001 Burgos, España.
2  Functional Food Research and Development Centre (CIDAF), Avda. del Conocimiento, 37 (PTS), 18016 Granada, España.
Academic Editor: Manuel Viuda-Martos

Abstract:

The relationship between arterial hypertension and oxidative stress has been extensively studied, both factors being involved in endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction is associated with the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Oxidative stress modulates the expression of antioxidant and pro-oxidant enzymes through Nrf2/NF-κB transcription factors and decreased NO bioavailability. According to various studies, foods with high content in polyphenols can improve vascular function and reduce arterial pressure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the preventive effect against endothelial dysfunction in hypertensive rats (SHR) of the daily intake for 5 weeks of a functional product obtained from beet molasses vinasse. This product (V) was characterized by HPLC-MS, finding 15 different potential bioactive compounds (including phenolic acids, flavonoids and terpenoids, several of them glycosylated). The most notable finding of the study was that V consumption for 5 weeks improved blood pressure in hypertensive rats, maintaining it at values similar to those at the beginning of the study. In contrast, the hypertensive control group showed a progressive increase in systolic blood pressure, reaching a significant difference of 16% (p<0.05) compared to the SHR+V group. Quantitative PCR and Western blot analyses in the aorta demonstrated that V ingestion by hypertensive rats led to decreased ACE mRNA levels and higher SOD2 and eNOS gene expression via promotion of Nrf2 transcriptional activity and down-regulation of the NF-κB pathway. These results are associated with an increased antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory response. In conclusion, consumption of vinasse-derived products could mitigate hypertension and associated endothelial dysfunction.

Keywords: vinasse, hypertension, antioxidant, ACE, eNOS
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