Disfunção endotelial : papel do estresse oxidativo e da hiperglicemia

Abstract

The endothelium is considered an endocrine organ, located in the wall of blood vessels and responsible for regulating vascular integrity and metabolism, controlling vascular homeostasis, vascular tone, cell proliferation and inflammatory response. Endothelial dysfunction is related to an imbalance between endothelium-derived molecules and antioxidants, which is closely linked to cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome, and is an aggravating risk factor for the formation and progression of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed, through a narrative review of the literature, to review topics associated with endothelium, endothelial dysfunction, hyperglycemia, oxidative stress and antioxidant molecules such as carvacrol on endothelial dysfunction. The methodology of the work was based on the selection and analysis of articles and academic documents published in the following databases: MEDLINE (National Library of Medicine), SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and EMBASE between the years 2000 and 2021. The selected studies show that factors that trigger oxidative stress, an increase in the expression of adhesion molecules, an increase in the synthesis of vasoconstrictors and a reduction in the bioavailability of nitric oxide are associated with the development of endothelial dysfunction. High levels of LDL and oxidized LDL, low HDL, high triglycerides, hypertension, high C-reactive protein and phospholipase A2 (PLA2's), hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, high homocysteine, vitamin D deficiency and smoking contribute to the condition of metabolic syndrome, with progression in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and development of cardiovascular diseases. Antioxidants act to prevent the development of oxidative stress in biological systems. Antioxidants of natural origin, usually present in human food, represent a non-pharmacological alternative in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In this context, carvacrol is a biomolecule, found in oregano, with the potential to act as an adjuvant in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, through the inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation.