Syagrus coronata (Mart.) Becc oil modulates vascular reactivity, aorta morphology and glucose levels in rats

Syagrus coronata oil, commonly known as 'licuri', is widely used in traditional medicine due to its therapeutic properties like pain, inflammation, and fungal infection. It is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, which are associated with biological effects such as vasorelaxation.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of S. coronata oil on vascular reactivity, blood pressure, and arterial morphology in rats, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and assess potential alterations in the serum biochemical profile.

Molecular docking was used to examine the interaction between the fatty acids in the oil and vascular calcium channels. To evaluate vascular reactivity, experiments were conducted using aortic rings from Wistar and SHR rats. Morphometric analyses of the aortic tissue tunics were performed using histomorphometric techniques. Additionally, serum was used to trace the animals' biochemical profile.

S. coronata oil induces vasorelaxant activity in an endothelium-independent manner; in addition, it promotes modulation of potassium and calcium channels. We suggest that its action is closely linked to IP₃ receptor blocking. Although no significant changes in blood pressure were detected, the oil reduced serum glucose levels and increased the tunica media thickness, indicating metabolic and structural effects.

Licuri oil exerts a vasorelaxant effect, possibly mediated by potassium and calcium channels, with therapeutic potential in cardiovascular conditions. These results provide valuable insights into the benefits and mechanisms of action of licuri oil, highlighting its relevance in alternative medicine and justifying future investigations to optimize its clinical pharmacological application.