Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most common illnesses worldwide. Accurate control of blood pressure can help reduce the incidence of complications. Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) is a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor that increases oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, activating the expression of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), which thickens the vessel wall and ultimately contributes to hypertension. Studies have shown that seeds of Camellia oleifera Abel and Camellia sinensis (L). O. Kuntze (Oolong tea) possesses antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory functions. Therefore, this study aimed was to investigate the functional components in the seed pomace ethanol extracts of C. oleifera Abel (CPE) and Oolong tea (OPE) and to evaluate the ameliorative effects of CPE and OPE on oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular remodeling in l-NAME induced hypertensive C57BL/6J mice. After 8 weeks of treatment, all CPE and OPE dose groups significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, by over 30 mmHg and 15 mmHg, respectively. Additionally, CPE and OPE decreased transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) expression in the thoracic aortic and thoracic aortic intima-media thickness. Moreover, CPE and OPE decreased the malondialdehyde concentration in the liver by over 33%, as well as levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin 6, and interleukin-1β in the kidney and heart. Collectively, CPE and OPE can reduce oxidative stress and vascular remodeling, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.