Cardioprotective effects of lycopene-loaded nanoparticles against isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury

This study aimed to investigate the cardioprotective effects of lycopene loaded ovalbumin chitosan nanoparticle (L-OCNPs) against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial injury.

H9c2 cardiomyoblasts were treated with various concentrations of L-OCNPs (5, 10, 15, 25, and 50 µg/ml) for 24 hr, followed by exposure to ISO (100 µM) for an additional 24 hr. Cell viability, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and nuclear damage were assessed using various biochemical and molecular techniques. Molecular docking studies were conducted to explore the binding interactions between L-OCNPs and the Nrf2 protein.

L-OCNPs exhibited significant cytoprotective effects against ISO-induced cytotoxicity. They effectively reduced oxidative stress by scavenging reactive oxygen species and up-regulating antioxidant enzymes. L-OCNPs also preserved mitochondrial function by maintaining mitochondrial membrane potential and reducing mitochondrial damage. Furthermore, they protected against nuclear damage by inhibiting DNA fragmentation and apoptosis. Molecular docking studies revealed that L-OCNPs, particularly (all-E)-Lycopene and 5Z-Lycopene, interact with the Nrf2 protein, suggesting a potential mechanism of action. Histopathological analysis of rat hearts confirmed the cardioprotective effects of L-OCNPs against ISO-induced myocardial injury.

L-OCNPs demonstrate promising cardioprotective properties by mitigating oxidative stress, preserving mitochondrial function, and preventing nuclear damage. These outcomes propose that L-OCNPs may be a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.