Effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on vascular damage caused by consumption of High-Fructose Corn Syrup in rats

ABSTRACT Effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on vascular damage caused by consumption of High-Fructose Corn Syrup in rats. The use of fructose, which extends the shelf life for processed foods and fizzy drinks are increasing. High fructose intake causes to hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hypertension. The harmful effects of increased fructose intake on health and their prevention should take greater consideration. Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE ) has beneficial effects on endothelial and vascular function which is important in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, very little is known about the effect of CAPE on fructose-induced vascular dysfunction. In this thesis, we examined the effect of CAPE (50 micromol/kg, i.p) on vascular dysfunction in high fructose corn syrup (30%)-induced the metabolic syndrome by administering in drinking water for 6 weeks in rats. CAPE applications (50 micromol/kg, i.p for 2 weeks) were initiated after 4 weeks of fructose implementation. Blood samples were taken from the experimental group for biochemical measurement and the vascular smooth muscle functions in the aorta were measured. Blood pressure and serum lipids and glucose levels were also evaluated. eNOS enzyme activity in aortic tissue was also determined. Our results revealed that while acethylcholine induced relaxation of aortic rings obtained from rats given fructose were not different from controls; fructose consumption caused to a decrease the contractions to phenylephrine in aortae from rat. CAPE supplement corrected the reduction in vascular contractility. Additionally, hypertension in fructose fed rats was also corrected in CAPE supplemented rats. CAPE supplements lowered the fructose consumption-induced rise in blood glucose and cholesterol levels. eNOS enzyme immunoreactivity in aort tissue was decreased in rats given fructose, but CAPE application inhibited the fructose consumption-induced decrease in eNOS immunoreactivity. The present results showed that high fructose-induced cardiovascular abnormalities could be prevented by CAPE treatment. Keywords: Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester, CAPE, vascular smooth muscle functions, hypertension, fructose fed rats.