Abstract Title:

Mediterranean diet and cardioprotection: wild artichoke inhibits metalloproteinase 9.

Abstract Source:

Mol Nutr Food Res. 2008 Oct;52(10):1147-52. PMID: 18646006

Abstract Author(s):

Stefano Bellosta, Paola Bogani, Monica Canavesi, Claudio Galli, Francesco Visioli

Article Affiliation:

Department of Pharmacological Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.

Abstract:

Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases responsible for the hydrolysis of various component of extracellular matrix such as gelatin and collagen. MMPs, namely MMP-2 and MMP-9 correlate with cardiovascular events in patients. We sought to determine whether supplementation with polyphenol-rich Cynara cardunculus (wild artichoke, traditional component of the Mediterranean diet) modulates MMP-9 expression and activity in cell cultures. A fully characterized C. cardunculus extract was able to inhibit, in a dose-dependent manner, the gelatinolytic activity of secreted MMP-9 and both secretion and human MMP-9 promoter-driven transcription. Analysis by HPLC of the Cynara extract identified polyphenols such as luteolin, apigenin, and caffeic acid, among others. However, testing a mix of the individual components suggested that the inhibitory effects of C. cardunculus are due to minor constituent fraction(s) as a whole. In promoting the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, the role of wild plants as important meal components deserves further reappraisal.

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