Avenanthramides as lipoxygenase inhibitors

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Nutraceuticals

Background:

• Avenanthramides (AVAs) are oat compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Potential mechanisms include inhibition of lipoxygenases (LOX), enzymes involved in inflammatory pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To screen AVAs for in vitro LOX inhibition.
• To examine structure-activity relationships of AVAs concerning LOX inhibition.

Main Methods:

• Twelve different AVAs were tested for LOX inhibition at 0.6 mM.
• Comparisons included free cinnamic acids, Tranilast®, and trans-resveratrol.

Main Results:

• AVAs with caffeic or sinapic acid demonstrated significant LOX inhibition (60-90%).
• AVAs with p-coumaric or ferulic acid showed minimal to no inhibition.
• Inhibition was independent of the anthranilic acid moiety.

Conclusions:

• Avenanthramides containing caffeic or sinapic acid possess notable lipoxygenase inhibitory activity.
• This LOX inhibition contributes to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of these specific AVAs.