Journal of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University (Jan 2023)

β-sitosterol on heart rate variability in L-NAME induced hypertensive rats

  • Sanakousar Patel,
  • Manjunatha Aithala,
  • Sumangala Patil ,
  • Kusal K Das

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12, no. 1
pp. 97 – 106

Abstract

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Background: β-sitosterol is a bioactive compound extracted from Mucuna pruriens and found to be effective in protecting against cerebrovascular diseases. Aim and Objectives: The present study is aimed to assess the effect of βsitosterol on heart rate variability in L-NAME induced hypertensive rats. Material and Methods: The study involved laboratory-bred 24 adult male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) randomly allocated into four groups. Group 1: Control (n=6), Group 2: L-NAME (n=6), Group 3: β-sitosterol (n=6) and Group 4: L-NAME+β-sitosterol (n=6) for 28 days. All the experimental animals were subjected to Heart Rate Variability (HRV) analysis at the beginning as well as at the end of 28 days of before and after L-NAME treatment and simultaneous supplementation of β-sitosterol. Animals were subjected for assessment of other hemodynamic parameters such as heart rate and blood pressure. Oxidative stress parameters like serum Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Nitric Oxide (NO) were also assessed. Results: The present study demonstrated alteration in HRV with increased LF (sympathetic function) and HF (parasympathetic function) ratio in Group 2 L-NAME treated hypertensive rats. In Group 4 (β-sitosterol supplemented), hypertensive rats showed remarkable reduction in the values of LF and HF ratio and other vascular parameters as compared to Group 2. Increased level of serum MDA and decrease level of serum NO in Group 2 with concomitant decreased level of MDA and increased level of NO were also observed in Group 4 rats. Conclusion: This study clearly indicates an alteration in cardiovascular physiology with altered sympathovagal balance in L-NAME treated hypertensive rats. Administration of β-sitosterol in hypertensive rats was found to be beneficial against L-NAME induced hypertension.

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