The Effect of Atherogenic Diet with or without Enzyme Inhibitors on the Incidence and Progress of Atherosclerosis in Rabbits

PON1 (Paraoxonase – 1) is an esterase enzyme that is associated with HDL (High Density Lipoprotein). This enzyme prevents the peroxidation of LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein). It is proved that the LDL susceptibility for oxidation is a risk factor for coronary artery diseases. The aim of this study is to survey the effect of atherogenic diet with or without enzyme inhibitors on the incidence and progression of atherosclerosis in rabbits. Twenty four new zealand white rabbits divided into three groups (control, under the atherogenic diet, atherogenic diet and nandrolone decanoate - paraoxonase inhibitor) and were treated for two months. At first and at the end of the treatment, 5 ml of blood was obtained to determine the levels of TAC (Total Antioxidant Capacity), HDL, MDA (Mallon Dialdehide) and PON1. After sixty days rabbits anesthetized under standard conditions and sampling carried out from heart arteries for pathological examination. Data were analyzed using statistical software SPSS/15 and one way ANOVA and paired t-test statistical tests. The results showed that plasma levels of TAC, HDL, MDA and PON1 had significant changes in this study (P<0.05). The results of pathological study showed that in the presence of PON1, formation and progression of atheroma is diminished. The results of this study show that cholesterol-rich diet decreased serum level of PON1 that led to a reduction in formation and progression of atheroma. It was shown that the enzyme inhibitor helps accelerating the development of atheroma.