Resveratrol: A Multifunctional Compound Improving Endothelial Function: Editorial to: “Resveratrol Supplementation Gender Independently Improves Endothelial Reactivity and Suppresses Superoxide Production in Healthy Rats” by S. Soylemez et al.

The red wine polyphenol resveratrol boosts endothelium-dependent and -independent vasorelaxations. The improvement of endothelial function by resveratrol is largely attributable to nitric oxide (NO) derived from endothelial NO synthase (eNOS). By stimulating eNOS expression, eNOS phosphorylation and eNOS deacetylation, resveratrol enhances endothelial NO production. By upregulating antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) and suppressing the expression and activity of NADPH oxidases, resveratrol inhibits superoxide-mediated NO inactivation. Some resveratrol effects are mediated by sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) or estrogen receptors, respectively

The role of potassium channels in the relaxation of rat renal artery induced by resveratrol

Resveratrol, a polyphenol present in red wine, has been thought to be responsible for cardiovascular benefits associated with moderate wine consumption. The mechanism of cardiovascular benefits probably includes vasorelaxation, antioxidant and anti-platelet effects of resveratrol. The mechanisms by which resveratrol causes vasodilatation are uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism (s) of resveratrol-induced vasorelaxation in rat renal artery (RA) with endothelium. RA rings were precontracted with phenylephrine. Resveratrol induced relaxation of the RA rings. Highly selective blocker of ATP-sensitive K+ channels, glibenclamide as well as selective antagonist of voltage-gated K+ (Kv 1.1.-1.6) channels, margatoxin did not block resveratrol-induced relaxation of RA. A nonselective blocker of Kv channels, 4-aminopyridine and a blocker of big Ca-sensitive K+ (BKCa) channels, charybdotoxin inhibited endothelium-dependent relaxation of RA induced by resveratrol. Resveratrol (100 µM) completely relaxed renal artery precontracted with K+-rich solution. In conclusion, we have shown that resveratrol induces relaxation of RA with endothelium. The KV and BKCa channels are involved in this relaxation, but K+ channel- independent mechanism of action also take a part in its vasorelaxant effect

Analysis of resveratrol incorporated in liposomes containing vitamin C and E

Resveratrol, a polyphenol mainly present in grapes and red wine, demonstrated interesting biomedical properties for its cardio protective action due to inhibition of the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and of platelet aggregation, inhibitory effects on cancer promotion and propagation and anti-inflammatory activities. These potential therapeutic and prophylactic applications are limited by the low bioavailability caused by its physical chemical properties. Additionally, resveratrol has low water solubility and stability making its clinical success a formidable technological and medical challenge. Liposomal formulations have been proposed as a means of improving the therapeutic efficacy of poorly bioavailable drugs. The aim of the study was to determine amount of resveratrol loaded into liposomes in presence of vitamin C and vitamin E. Liposome preparations containing pure resveratrol, resveratrol with vitamin C and resveratrol with vitamin E were prepared using thin film hydration method. Resveratrol content was analyzed using HPLC with UV/DAD detection. Resveratrol was detected in all analyzed samples. Results showed that increase in amount of resveratrol used for preparation of liposomes, lead to increase of amount of resveratrol loaded into liposomes. Also, addition of natural antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E increased incorporated amount of resveratrol