Title:A Nutraceutical Compound Containing a Low Dose of Monacolin K,
Polymethoxyflavones, Phenolic Acids, Flavonoids, and Hydroxytyrosol
Improves HDL Functionality
Volume: 21
Issue: 6
Author(s): Carlo Cervellati, Alessandro Trentini, Valentina Rosta, Giovanni Zuliani, Francesco Vieceli Dalla Sega*, Francesca Fortini, Paola Rizzo, Paolo Cimaglia and Gianluca Campo
Affiliation:
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Cotignola, Italy
Keywords:
Nutraceutical compound, high-density lipoprotein, glutathione peroxidase-3, lipoprotein-phospholipase A2, myeloperoxidase, monacolin K dose, polymethoxyflavones, phenolic acids, flavonoids, hydroxytyrosol.
Abstract:
Background: In earlier studies, it has been observed that 8-week treatment with a novel
nutraceutical compound (NC) containing low monacolin K dose, polymethoxyflavones, phenolic acids,
flavonoids, and hydroxytyrosol improves lipid profile and endothelial function and reduces the level of
oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). We hypothesize that this effect might be, at least in part,
explained by positive modulation exerted by the NC on the atheroprotective function of high-density
lipoprotein (HDL).
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate whether the NC could influence determinants of HDL function.
Methods: Forty-five subjects with low-moderate dyslipidaemia were enrolled and treated for 8 weeks
with the NC, followed by 4 weeks of washout. Blood samples were collected at every time point to
evaluate changes in lipid profile, endothelial function, oxLDL, and markers of HDL function, such as
the anti-oxidant activities of paraoxonase-1, glutathione peroxidase-3 (Gpx3), lipoprotein-phospholipase
A2 (Lp-PLA2), and pro-oxidant activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO).
Results: Although the concentration of HDL-C did not change, the activity of Lp-PLA2 significantly
decreased upon treatment (-11.6%, p<0.001) and returned to baseline level 4 weeks after the end of
treatment. In contrast, Gpx3 increased after treatment (+5%, p<0.01) and remained unvaried after 4
weeks. Both MPO activity and concentration significantly decreased after the washout period (-33 and
32%, p<0.001).
Conclusion: For the first time, it was found that the administration of an NC with beneficial effects on
lipid homeostasis also positively impacts HDL function by improving the balance between protective
and damaging determinants. Further investigation is required to corroborate our findings.
