Dietary polyphenols: Structures, bioavailability and protective effects against atherosclerosis

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that nutritional habits, like those based on high consumption of fruits and vegetables, have been associated with a longer life expectancy and a significant decrease in the incidence and prevalence of several chronic diseases with inflammatory basis, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This beneficial activity has been related to the content of several bioactive compounds in fruit and vegetables, such as polyphenols. The cardioprotective effects of polyphenols have been linked mainly to its antioxidant properties; however, recent findings attribute its anti-atherosclerotic potential to modulate simultaneous signaling and mechanistic pathways. Emerging data suggest that polyphenols can regulate cellular lipid metabolism; vascular and endothelial function; haemostasis; as well as platelet function; which represent primary conditions for atherosclerotic plaque formation and development. This review presents the results of a selection of experimental studies and clinical trials regarding the atheroprotective effects of the most common dietary polyphenols.