The Effect of Verjuice on Serum Lipid Levels in Mice Rendered Atherosclerosis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of verjuice on atherosclerotic plaques and serum lipids in a mouse model. The animals were divided into 6 groups: Group A (positive control); Groups B (negative control) and C, D, E, F (experimental) all were fed with 2 % cholesterol in diet. Groups C (preventive) and D (treatment) were further treated with 7 ml/kg/day verjuice solution respectively from the first and the 42 nd days throughout the experiment. Groups E (preventive) and F (treatment) were also treated with 14 ml/kg/day of verjuice in the same way as C and D. The serum lipids were measured by enzymatic techniques.Serum LDL-C, HDL-C and total cholesterol levels were increased in negative control group vs positive control group. The use of verjuice as preventive regime increased the serum LDL levels in comparison to negative control group (P<0.05); but treatment with 14 ml/kg/day decreased triglyceride levels vs negative control group (P<0.05).Cholestrol regimen was not able to induce atherosclerotic plaques in mice.Verjuice as treatmentat dose of 14 ml/kg/day is useful in lowering of serum triglyceride but it can increase serum LDL as preventive regime. This animal model is not a proper one for the study of atherosclerosis.

Key words:

• Verjuice
• LDL
• HDL
• Cholesterol