Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major global health problem that often develops without noticeable symptoms. Current treatments and complementary approaches focus on improving endothelial function and enhancing nitric oxide (NO) production to promote vasodilation and lower blood pressure. Isosakuranetin, a flavanone found in Chromolaena odorata leaves, has shown potential antihypertensive properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of isosakuranetin on L-N(G)-Nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertension, focusing on its ability to enhance NO production and reduce oxidative stress. METHODS: This study investigated the antihypertensive effects of the flavanone isosakuranetin in male Wistar rats (n = 8 per group). Hypertension was induced by L-NAME, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, for four weeks, followed by treatment with isosakuranetin (10, 20, or 40 mg/kg) or enalapril (10 mg/kg) for an additional two weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate, and body weight were monitored weekly. After six weeks, the effects of isosakuranetin on NO level and oxidative stress were assessed using the Griess reaction, 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity assays. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that the SBP was significantly reduced in the isosakuranetin treatment group when compared to the hypertensive group. Additionally, isosakuranetin treatment significantly restored plasma nitrate/nitrite levels and showed the potential to reduced oxidative stress, as indicated by the decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and a significant increase in SOD activity. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that isosakuranetin is a promising natural compound for managing hypertension, demonstrating its potential for clinical application.