Eicosanoids and docosanoids in plasma and aorta of healthy and atherosclerotic rabbits.

Eicosanoids and docosanoids have been shown to be involved in atherosclerosis. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are important nutrients that are metabolized by lipoxygenases and cyclooxygenases to various mono-hydroxy metabolites which can be further metabolized by specific enzymes to more complex eicosanoids and docosanoids. In this study a high-performance liquid chromatography methodology was established and rabbits were fed with a control or a high-cholesterol diet to induce atherosclerotic lesions to determine pro- or anti-inflammatory lipid mediators in atherosclerotic vessels.

Effects of lycopene on the initial state of atherosclerosis in New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits.

Background: Lycopene is the main carotenoid in tomatoes, where it is found in high concentrations. Strong epidemiological evidence suggests that lycopene may provide protection against cardiovascular diseases. We therefore studied the effects of lycopene on diet-induced increase in serum lipid levels and the initiation of atherosclerosis in New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits.