Targeting Autoimmune Myocarditis with Lemon Balm Extract: In Vivo Molecular Approach.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) is a severe condition with complex pathophysiology.
• Progression to dilative cardiomyopathy (DCM) leads to serious cardiac outcomes.
• Exploring natural compounds for therapeutic potential is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cardioprotective effects of ethanolic lemon balm extract (LBE) in a rat model of EAM.
• To determine if LBE can attenuate disease progression and prevent the development of DCM.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of LBE's action.

Main Methods:

• EAM was induced in Dark Agouti rats using porcine myosin immunization.
• Animals were treated with varying doses of LBE (50, 100, 200 mg/kg) or left untreated.
• Cardiac function, hemodynamic parameters, and molecular markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and apoptosis were assessed.

Main Results:

• LBE significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-17) and increased anti-inflammatory IL-10.
• LBE demonstrated potent antioxidant activity by decreasing reactive oxygen species and increasing endogenous antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH).
• High-dose LBE (200 mg/kg) reversed fibrosis and mitigated apoptosis, evidenced by reduced TGF-β, collagen deposition, and altered Bax/Bcl-2 balance.

Conclusions:

• Ethanolic lemon balm extract (LBE) exerts significant cardioprotective effects against autoimmune myocarditis.
• LBE attenuates EAM progression towards DCM by modulating inflammatory, oxidative, fibrotic, and apoptotic pathways.
• LBE represents a potential therapeutic agent for managing autoimmune myocarditis and preventing dilated cardiomyopathy.