Abstract
Our previous studies have shown that the pollen extract, Cernitin, reveals lipid-lowering properties in animals and humans. The present study was designed to investigate the influence of Cernitin on the development of experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits over a period of 12 weeks. Forty male mongrel rabbits were divided into 4 equal groups: (1) controls, (2) animals receiving high-fat diet (HFD) containing cholesterol and coconut oil, (3) HFD + pollen extract, and (4) HFD + clofibrate. The most pronounced reduction in lipid metabolism and in the severity of plaque formation occurred after the pollen extract had been applied. The total cholesterol content in serum and liver homogenate was depressed by 67% and 45%, respectively, while the serum HDL cholesterol and a-lipoproteins level was increased by 19% and from 7.73% to 21.73% respectively. The cytochrome P-450 content in the liver microsomes was elevated by 98% (nmol/g liver). Atherosclerotic plaque intensity at 12 weeks, measured planimetrically, averaged 85.5% in HFD-fed animals vs 33.7% in pollen extract-treated rabbits. These findings suggest that Cernitin, in addition to significantly lowering serum lipid levels in rabbits on an experimental diet, may modify lipid deposition in major arteries.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
