Abstract
Aging is associated with functional decline and structural deteriorations of the myocardium and plays a crucial role in cardiovascular ailments. Decalepis hamiltonii (Dh) is a well known medicinal plant used in traditional medicine and exhibits potent antioxidant properties. Therefore, the current study was proposed to assess the cardioprotective potential of Dh extract and its bioactive constituents [Ellagic acid (EA) and 4‑hydroxyisophthalic acid (4-HIA)] against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced region-specific myocardial damage in aging rats. Male albino Wistar rats aged 22 months were administered orally with Dh extract (100mg/kg BW), EA (50 mg/kg BW), and 4‑HIA (30 mg/kg BW) for one month before inducing MI using ISO (150 mg/kg BW) for the consecutive last two days. The ISO group exhibited a significant increase in hemodynamic parameters, cardiac marker enzymes, serum lipids, and oxidative stress markers. A significant reduction in region-specific antioxidant enzymes levels and histopathological alterations were observed in ISO-treated rats. Whereas, pretreatment of EA, 4-HIA, and Dh extract reduced the cardiac dysfunction biomarkers and mitigated oxidative stress by enhancing antioxidant enzymes and restoring histopathological changes in ISO-treated rats. The Overall findings give insights into the therapeutic applications of Dh extract and its compounds in ameliorating cardiovascular disorders through its antioxidant potential.
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