Amelioration of Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Infarction by the Phytochemical Koenigicine via Modulation of NF-κB/HO-1/NQO-1 Pathways: An In Vivo Analysis

Abstract

Phytochemicals exhibit diverse cardioprotective properties that contribute to the prevention and management of myocardial infarction (MI). In our study, we examined the potency of the phytochemical Koenigicine, which belongs to the carbazole alkaloid, in alleviating MI in an animal model. The animals were supplemented with Koenigicine before MI induction using isoproterenol, with supplementation continuing during the MI induction period. The impact of Koenigicine on mitigating the onset of MI was evaluated by quantifying lipid levels and arterial blood pressure. Its ameliorative potential against isoproterenol-induced cardiac damage was assessed by measuring antioxidant levels and critical biomarkers of MI in the experimental animals. Protein, C-reactive protein (CRP), and uric acid levels were assessed to determine the effect of Koenigicine on immune function and inflammation. Additionally, the impact of Koenigicine on cardiac muscle function and its role in healing ischemic-induced cardiac tissues were examined in MI-induced rats. The effect of Koenigicine treatment on post-ischemic injury was analyzed by quantifying NF-κB, HO-1, and NQO-1 levels, and the findings were confirmed through cardiac histopathological analysis. Koenigicine administration effectively mitigated MI induction by regulating lipid levels and arterial blood pressure. It enhanced the antioxidant defense system, attenuated inflammatory signaling, and thereby prevented MI-induced cardiac tissue damage. The results of MI biomarker analysis confirmed the ameliorative potential of Koenigicine against isoproterenol-induced cardiac inflammation. Furthermore, it demonstrated a positive effect on cardiac function and facilitated the healing process following MI induction. Overall, our findings suggest that Koenigicine provides preventive, suppressive, and ameliorative effects at all stages of MI, addressing gaps in the efficacy of currently available treatments.