Investigation of the protective effects of dexpanthenol, a pantothenic acid derivative, on cardiovascular toxicity induced by high fructose corn syrup consumption

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is widely used in food products. Previous studies have indicated that HFCS consumption may lead to health problems, including cardiovascular diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of dexpanthenol (Dex) on cardiovascular damage associated with HFCS consumption. In this study, thirty-two male Wistar Albino rats were assigned to four groups: Control, HFCS, HFCS-Dex and Dex. Rats in the HFCS and HFCS-Dex groups received a 20% HFCS-55 solution for eight weeks. During the last four weeks of the experiment, Dex was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 500 mg/kg to the HFCS-Dex and Dex groups. The remaining groups received intraperitoneal injections of an equivalent volume of physiological saline. Biochemical analyses of rat serum samples revealed that HFCS elevated serum insulin, LDH and uric acid levels. HOMA-IR index, calculated from serum glucose and insulin values, likewise showed an HFCS-induced increase. HFCS was also observed to promote weight gain. Genetic analyses determined that HFCS increased GRP-78, PERK, CHOP, and BAX mRNA expression levels while decreasing BCL-2 expression levels in heart tissue. Immunohistochemical analyses of heart tissue demonstrated that caspase-3 and TNF-α immunoreactivity were increased in the HFCS group. Oxidative stress parameters MDA and OSI were also elevated in the HFCS group. Dex markedly decreased levels of LDH and uric acid; decreased the expression of GRP-78, PERK, CHOP, BAX, caspase-3 and TNF-α; and reduced MDA concentrations as well as the OSI. Dex administration increased BCL-2 expression levels. Histopathological analyses findings corroborated the other observations of the study. Based on our study's findings, we anticipate that Dex, through its anti-apoptotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and ER stress-attenuating effects, may serve as a potential protective agent against HFCS induced cardiotoxicity. However, more comprehensive studies are required to clarify the optimal dosage, treatment duration and underlying mechanisms of action. Keywords: Cardiotoxicity, Dexpanthenol, ER stress, HFCS, Oxidative stress. ..