Regeneração da função endotelial induzida por spondias tuberosa no envelhecimento: envolvimento de células progenitoras endoteliais

Abstract

Population aging increases the incidence of cardiovascular diseases and is accompanied by oxidative stress and inflammation, which contribute to endothelial dysfunction. In this context, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), responsible for vascular repair, exhibit a decline in both number and function with advancing age. Given the need for strategies targeting vascular repair mechanisms, this study used a D-galactose-induced aging model to evaluate the effects of a lyophilized hydroalcoholic extract of Spondias tuberosa Arruda bark (LEHST), considering its antioxidant and anti-senescence properties. Wistar rats were divided into three groups: young control (CTL), aged control (DGAL), and aged rats treated with LEHST (100 mg/kg) for eight weeks. Phenotypic characteristics, body weight, cellular senescence, vascular function, and EPC mobilization were evaluated. Treatment with LEHST reversed phenotypic signs of aging without affecting body weight and showed a significant anti-senescence effect, as evidenced by reduced SA-β-gal staining in the mesenteric artery. Furthermore, it prevented age-induced contractile hyperresponsiveness (Emax = 57.0% in the LEHST group vs. 102.08% in the D-GAL group) and restored endothelial function, with an acetylcholine-induced relaxation response of 120.2%, reversing the impairment observed in the D-GAL group (Emax = 74.55%). These effects were associated with increased mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) into the peripheral circulation. In conclusion, LEHST acts through multiple mechanisms to mitigate aging, reducing vascular senescence, reversing phenotypic alterations, and restoring vascular function. Additionally, it promotes endothelial repair by enhancing EPC mobilization, highlighting Spondias tuberosa as a promising therapeutic alternative and reinforcing its scientific and socioeconomic relevance for the Brazilian semi-arid region.