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Is dietary ergotamine atherogenic in the rabbit?
G W Meijer1, G B Janssen, A C Beynen
1Laboratory of Toxicology, National Institute of Public Health and Environmental Protection, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
Summary
Dietary ergotamine, a compound found in certain grains, was found to promote atherosclerosis in rabbits. This study indicates ergotamine intake increases cholesterol levels and aortic glycosaminoglycans, suggesting an atherogenic effect.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Nutritional Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a significant global health concern.
- Dietary factors play a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis.
- Ergotamine's potential atherogenic effects require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of dietary ergotamine on pre-lesional indicators of atherosclerosis in a rabbit model.
- To determine the dose-dependent effects of ergotamine on lipid profiles and aortic composition.
Main Methods:
- Rabbits were fed purified diets containing cholesterol (0.08% w/w) and varying doses of ergotamine-tartrate (0, 40, or 200 mg/kg).
- Serum lipid profiles, including total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, were analyzed after 6 weeks.
- Glycosaminoglycan levels and composition in the abdominal aorta were assessed.
Main Results:
- Ergotamine administration significantly increased serum total cholesterol and the total cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio in a dose-dependent manner.
- Dietary ergotamine led to elevated total glycosaminoglycans in the abdominal aorta.
- The relative proportion of chondroitin sulphate was increased in the abdominal aorta of rabbits fed ergotamine.
Conclusions:
- Dietary ergotamine exhibits atherogenic properties in rabbits.
- Ergotamine may contribute to atherosclerosis development by altering lipid metabolism and aortic glycosaminoglycan composition.