Abstract | AIM: Euterpe Oleracea (açai) is a fruit from the Amazon region whose chemical composition may be beneficial for individuals with atherosclerosis. We hypothesized that consumption of Euterpe Oleracea would reduce atherosclerosis development by decreasing cholesterol absorption and synthesis. METHODS: Male New Zealand rabbits were fed a cholesterol-enriched diet (0.5%) for 12 weeks, when they were randomized to receive Euterpe Oleracea extract (n = 15) or water (n = 12) plus a 0.05% cholesterol-enriched diet for an additional 12 weeks. Plasma phytosterols and desmosterol were determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Atherosclerotic lesions were estimated by computerized planimetry and histomorphometry. RESULTS: CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of Euterpe Oleracea extract markedly improved the lipid profile and attenuated atherosclerosis. These effects were related in part to a better balance in the synthesis and absorption of sterols.
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Authors | Claudine A Feio, Maria C Izar, Silvia S Ihara, Soraia H Kasmas, Celma M Martins, Max N Feio, Luís A Maués, Ney C Borges, Ronilson A Moreno, Rui M Póvoa, Francisco A Fonseca |
Journal | Journal of atherosclerosis and thrombosis
(J Atheroscler Thromb)
Vol. 19
Issue 3
Pg. 237-45
( 2012)
ISSN: 1880-3873 [Electronic] Japan |
PMID | 22139433
(Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Chemical References |
- Cholesterol, Dietary
- Lipids
- Phytosterols
- Plant Extracts
- Sitosterols
- Desmosterol
- campesterol
- gamma-sitosterol
- Cholesterol
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Topics |
- Animals
- Arecaceae
(chemistry)
- Atherosclerosis
(drug therapy, etiology)
- Cholesterol
(analogs & derivatives, blood)
- Cholesterol, Dietary
(adverse effects)
- Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
- Desmosterol
(blood)
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- Lipids
(analysis)
- Male
- Phytosterols
(blood)
- Phytotherapy
- Plant Extracts
(therapeutic use)
- Rabbits
- Sitosterols
(blood)
- Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization
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