Protective effects and molecular mechanisms of tea polyphenols on cardiovascular diseases

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Cardiovascular Medicine
• Nutritional Biochemistry and Pharmacology

Background:

• Aging is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading global cause of mortality.
• Understanding cardiovascular aging mechanisms is crucial for promoting healthy aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the classification and composition of tea and its polyphenols (TPs).
• To provide an overview of aging-related CVD causes.
• To detail the multifaceted effects and molecular mechanisms of TPs in mitigating CVDs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review on tea composition, aging-related CVDs, and TP bioactivities.
• Analysis of TPs' effects including anti-hypertension, lipid-lowering, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-proliferation, anti-angiogenesis, anti-atherosclerosis, endothelial function recovery, anti-thrombosis, and myocardial protection.

Main Results:

• Tea polyphenols (TPs), particularly catechins, exhibit diverse beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.
• TPs demonstrate significant potential in managing hypertension, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, inflammation, and atherosclerosis.
• TPs contribute to improved endothelial function, reduced thrombosis, and myocardial protection, offering therapeutic avenues for aging-related CVDs.

Conclusions:

• Tea polyphenols possess a wide range of cardioprotective properties.
• TPs represent a promising natural intervention strategy for addressing cardiovascular aging and related diseases.
• Further research into TPs' molecular mechanisms can optimize their application in cardiovascular health management.