Bixin, Norbixin and Quercetin and lipid metabolism effects in rabbits

Abstract

Flavonoids have been isolated with several biological activities and there are correlations among the consumption of rich foods in flavonoids and heart diseases. The 7-glucosyl-apigenin, 7- bisulfate-apigenin, 7-glucosyl-luteolin, 7-bisulfate-luteolin flavonoids and bixin and norbixin were isolated from urucu seeds. The aim of this study was to test the bixin and norbixin dyes and quercetin flavonoid from urucu and bixin with quercetin association to obtain its hypolipidemic effects in rabbits. Induction of hyperlipidaemia was performed with 1% cholesterol + 0,1% colic acid during 28 days. The substances were applied through the oral route, in capsule, in the doses of 0,01 mol/kg body weight. Total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and triacylglycerols have quantified from serum, after 28 days, and showed in mg/dL The best results for total cholesterol reduction and the HDL-cholesterol elevated levels maintenance was obtained with bixin. On the other hand, the best results for triacylglycerols reduction have been obtained with quercetin. The bixin and quercetin association showed efficacy to HDL-cholesterol and triacylglycerols and norbixin to total cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol. These results stimulate further research on the use of these substances as pharmacs in the heart diseases treatment and/or prevention.