Cellular and Molecular Bases for the Application of Polyphenols in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is very widespread in countries with a Western-style diet, representing one of the major causes of morbidity. Genetic factors, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and ageing are risk factors for CVD outcomes. From a pathogenic point of view, the condition of low-grade inflammation of the arteries leads to endothelial damage and atherosclerosis development. Nowadays, a broad range of drugs is available to treat CVD, but many of them are associated with side effects. Therefore, alternative therapeutic remedies need to be discovered in combination with conventional drugs. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, e.g., the Mediterranean diet, has been shown to lower the incidence of CVD. Plant-derived polyphenols are ingested in food, and these compounds can exert beneficial effects on human health, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Objective: In the present review, the cellular and molecular bases of the beneficial effects of polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of CVD will be pointed out.

Methods: This review has been conducted on the basis of a literature review spanning mainly the last two decades.

Results: We found that an increased dietary intake of polyphenols is associated with a parallel decrease in chronic disease incidence, including CVD.

Conclusion: Despite a plethora of preclinical studies, more clinical trials are needed for a more appropriate treatment of CVD with polyphenols.

Keywords: T lymphocytes; cytokines; dendritic cells; immunotherapy; macrophages; myocardial infarction.

Figure 1

Classification of polyphenols. Polyphenols are natural compounds found in plant-based foods and beverages. Their classification into different subclasses like phenolic acids, flavonoids, stilbenes, and lignans is reported. The chemical formula of these molecules is also reported. Reproduced with permission from Caiati et al. [7].

Figure 2

Classification of flavonoids. Flavonoids are a subclass of polyphenols and can be classified into flavonols, flavones, isoflavones, flavanones, antho-cyanidins, and flavanols based on their ring structure as illustrated here. Flavonoids have diverse biological activities and potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Reproduced with permission from Caiati et al. [7].