Abstract: Background and Aim: This study investigated whether anthocyanins, a class of anti-inflammatory flavonoid compounds abundant in fruits and vegetables, could protect against heart aging in rats. The researchers focused on the potential of anthocyanins to inhibit apoptosis and autophagy triggered by D-galactose, a substance known to accelerate aging.
Materials and Methods: Seventy-five adult albino rats weighing between 120 and 140 grams were randomly assigned to five groups of fifteen each. The groups were designated as follows: control group (group I), anthocyanin group (group II), D-galactose group (group III), D-galactose and anthocyanin group (group IV), and anthocyanin pretreatment group (group V).
Results: Anthocyanin pretreatment improved many biochemical changes, induced autophagy, suppressed apoptosis and protected against damaging effects of D- galactose. However, the delay in its administration to be given with the onset of D -galactose administration resulted only in partial improvement. The histopathological findings confirmed the laboratory results.
Conclusions: Anthocyanin administration markedly alleviated inflammation in cardiac muscle and damage induced by D – galactose through inhibition of inflammation, induction of autophagy and suppression of apoptosis.
