Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside protection against TNF-α-induced endothelial dysfunction: involvement of nuclear factor-κB signaling

Oxidative stress and inflammation are considered to play a pivotal role in vascular endothelial
dysfunction by triggering activation of transcription factors, such as NF-κB, functionally dependent
on cellular redox status. The anthocyanin cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), as well as other phytochemicals
recognized as potent antioxidants and free radical scavengers, may act as modulators of
gene regulation and signal transduction pathways. This study demonstrates that C3G is able to
protect human endothelial cells against alterations induced by TNF-alfa, including the activation of
NF-κB, increased gene expression of adhesion molecules, leukocyte adhesion to endothelium, and
intracellular accumulation of H2O2 and lipid peroxidation byproducts. These observations contribute
to provide a conceptual background for the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the role of
C3G, as well as other dietary plant polyphenols, in the prevention of diseases associated with
inflammation and oxidative stress, including atherosclerosis.