Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid on cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

Background: As a dietary phytochemical, Ferulic acid (FA) is caused by metabolism between phenylalanine and tyrosine with physiological functions like anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cardioprotective properties. This study aims to investigate FA protective effects on cardiovascular diseases. Methods: We covered references like these, web-based scientific databases, PubMed publications, ScienceDirect and Springer. Recent patent on FA therapeutic function in treatment of cardiovascular diseases potential was evaluated. Results: Studies showed that foods rich in FA prevent hypertension. FA, a free radical scavenger, is an enzyme inhibitor which catalyzes free radical generation and enhances scavenger enzyme activity. As a potent scavenger of free radicals, it dilutes oxidative stress, and reduces elevated blood-pressure by improving endothelial function and increasing bioavailability of this oxide in arterial vasculature. FA can enhance angiogenesis and wound healing. Conclusion: In this review, protective function of FA, an antioxidant compound in some nutrition such as fruits, vegetables, and grains, was discussed in terms of its relationship with cardiovascular diseases. Despite numerous data on FA, its effects on human is not recognized; further clinical studies about therapeutic effects of FA on patients with vascular diseases are required.