The red wine polyphenol, resveratrol improves hemodynamics, oxidative defence and aortal structure in essential and malignant hypertension

Abstract

Resveratrol the polyphenolic antioxidant molecule has been proposed as an effective agent in the prevention of several pathological conditions, thus this study was aimed to evaluate its chronic effects on functional and structural remodeling of the aorta in spontaneously (SHR) and malignantly hypertensive rats (MHR). Resveratrol significantly decreased arterial pressure and improved regional hemodynamic parameters, bioavailability of nitric oxide, ameliorated morphological changes in the tunica media and smooth muscle of the aorta, preserved endothelium, reduced inflammation and apoptosis in both SHR and MHR, but excrete more beneficial effects on SHR. Resveratrol suppressed lipid peroxidation, significantly improved oxidative status and reduced levels of lipids. These results suggest the cardiovascular benefits of resveratrol dietary enrichment in both experimental models of hypertension.