Ethnopharmacological investigations on the cardiometabolic protective effects of Caiman yacare fat oil in hypertensive and dyslipidemic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

The fat derived from different species of the genus Caiman is traditionally used in Brazil for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular complications. Despite its widespread use, data on the efficacy and mechanisms of action of these preparations remain scarce.

Aim of the study

To evaluate the potential cardiovascular protective effects of treatment with Caiman yacare visceral fat oil (YO) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) associated with multiple risk factors.

Materials and methods

SHRs received an atherogenic diet for 8 weeks to induce cardiovascular and metabolic dysfunction. Treatments with YO (19, 56, and 168 mg/kg), rosuvastatin (5 mg/kg), and fish oil (56 mg/kg) started after 4 weeks and continued for 4 weeks. Renal function, blood pressure, and cardiac activity were monitored. Serum lipids, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, as well as liver and kidney function parameters, were assessed. Vascular reactivity of mesenteric vascular beds was evaluated, and tissue samples from the kidneys, heart, and arteries were collected for histopathological analyses.

Results

Treatment with YO at 168 mg/kg significantly reduced serum lipids, urea, creatinine, and oxidized LDL levels while preventing arterial endothelial dysfunction and intima-media thickening.

Conclusion

The treatment with YO visceral fat oil exerts lipid-lowering effects, reduces LDL oxidation, and prevents endothelial dysfunction, while also partially modulating renal function in SHRs with multiple risk factors. Further preclinical in vivo studies are necessary to fully elucidate the benefits and risks associated with the use of YO, particularly in the context of cardiovascular diseases.