Resveratrol Supplementation Modulates Endothelial Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease (AD): In Vitro Effects on Human Aortic Endothelial Cells Exposed to AD Plasma.

INTRODUCTION: Increasing evidence indicates a connection between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and endothelial dysfunction. Given the lack of a definitive cure for AD, the purpose of this research was to explore the impact of a short incubation with plasma samples obtained from 30 patients with sporadic AD and 21 age- and sex-matched control subjects on cultured human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs), as well as to assess the effects of resveratrol (RSV) supplementation to the plasma.

METHODS: Specifically, the study analyzed: the production of nitric oxide (NO) and peroxynitrite; the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Na+/K+-ATPase; membrane fluidity; and levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS).

RESULTS: When incubated with AD plasma, cells showed a decrease in NO levels, enzymatic activities, and membrane fluidity, as well as an increase in peroxynitrite and TBARS production, compared to those exposed to plasma from healthy controls. In contrast, supplementation with RSVenriched plasma, reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and enhanced SOD activity. RSV also improved endothelial function, by increasing membrane fluidity, Na+/K+-ATPase activity, and enhancing NO production and bioavailability, potentially benefiting cerebral perfusion.

DISCUSSION: Though preliminary, our findings highlight the critical role played by vascular health in Alzheimer's disease, and the potential impact of resveratrol in maintaining the endothelial integrity, thus mitigating the progression of AD .

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our study supports the use of dietary natural compounds to reduce oxidative stress and prevent or reverse vascular endothelial dysfunction associated with AD.