Eugenol Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Senescence Via Downregulation Of Milk Fat Globule-EGF Factor 8
Our blood vessels are vital for our health, and as we get older, the cells that make up these vessels, known as vascular smooth muscle cells, can start to show signs of aging. This process, called cellular senescence, can contribute to various heart and blood vessel conditions. A hormone in our body, Angiotensin II, is known to speed up this aging process in these important cells. New research has explored how a natural compound, eugenol, which is found in some plants and spices, might offer a protective effect. The findings suggest that eugenol can interrupt a specific pathway involving a protein called Milk Fat Globule-EGF Factor 8 (MFG-E8). MFG-E8 acts as a key player in promoting the undesirable changes in vascular smooth muscle cells that lead to their premature aging and dysfunction. By reducing the amount or activity of MFG-E8, eugenol essentially helps to slow down the aging process in these cells that is initiated by Angiotensin II. This discovery highlights a potential natural approach to support vascular health and could pave the way for new strategies to combat age-related cardiovascular issues.
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