Cranberries inhibit LDL oxidation and induce LDL receptor expression in hepatocytes.

According to recent research published in the journal Life Sciences, "Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in most industrialized countries. Cranberries were evaluated for their potential roles in dietary prevention of CVD."

Y.F. Chu and R.H. Liu of Cornell University reported, "Cranberry extracts were found to have potent antioxidant capacity preventing in vitro LDL oxidation with increasing delay and suppression of LDL oxidation in a dose-dependent manner. The antioxidant activity of 100g cranberries against LDL oxidation was equivalent to 1000mg of vitamin C or 3700mg of vitamin E. Cranberry extracts also significantly induced expression of hepatic LDL receptors and increased intracellular uptake of cholesterol in HepG2 cells in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. This suggests that cranberries could enhance clearance of excessive plasma cholesterol in circulation."

"We propose that additive or synergistic effects of phytochemicals in cranberries are responsible for the inhibition of LDL oxidation, the induced expression of LDL receptors, and the increased uptake of cholesterol in hepatocytes," the authors concluded.

Chu and Liu published their study in Life Sciences (“Cranberries Inhibit LDL oxidation and Induce LDL Receptor Expression in Hepatocytes.” Life Sci, 2005;77(15):1892-1901).

For additional information, contact R.H. Liu, Cornell University, Department of Food Science, Stocking Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853.

Source: Cardiovascular Device Liability Week