Effect of trans-chalcone on atheroma plaque formation, liver fibrosis and adiponectin gene expression in cholesterol-fed NMRI mice

Abstract Background Trans-chalcone is the precursor molecule to flavonoids and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of trans -chalcone on atheroma plaque formation and the relevant biochemical parameters in high cholesterol diet (HCD)-fed NMRI mice. Methods Fifty male NMRI mice were divided into 5 groups ( n  = 10 per group): control (received a normal diet); HCD (received an additional 2% cholesterol for 18 weeks); sham (received a HCD for 12 weeks and were then shifted to a normal diet and trans -chalcone vehicle (sunflower oil) for 6 weeks), and two experimental groups (received a HCD for 12 weeks and were then shifted to a normal diet and either 12 mg/kg or 24 mg/kg trans -chalcone for 6 weeks). Results After 12 weeks, HCD-induced atheroma plaques were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining of aortic sections. At the end of experiment, the following factors had significantly increased in the HCD group: body weight, insulin resistance, and serum levels of triglycerides, total-cholesterol, glucose, insulin, leptin, liver enzymes (AST and ALT), malondialdehyde and direct bilirubin. The serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, adiponectin, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione had considerably decreased. Histologic analysis of liver sections indicated hepatic fibrosis and steatosis. Treatment by both doses of trans-chalcone, particularly the 24 mg/kg dose, significantly attenuated these alterations. Conclusions Administration of tran s-chalcone improved the consequences of atheroma plaque formation and liver fibrosis via increased expression of adiponectin, generation of higher levels of antioxidant enzymes, as well as modulation of serum leptin and lipid profiles.