Exploring the protective role of green tea extract against cardiovascular alterations induced by chronic REM sleep deprivation via modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Chronic Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation has been associated with various cardiovascular alterations, including disruptions in antioxidant defense mechanisms, lipid metabolism, and inflammatory responses. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of green tea extract (GTE) in mitigating these adverse effects. METHODS: A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were used in this study and divided into the control group (n = 8), Chronic-REM Sleep Deprivation (CRSD) Group (n = 8) and Chronic-REM SD + Green Tea 200 (CRSD + GTE200) Group (n = 8). After 21 days, a comprehensive analysis of paraoxonase (PON1), arylesterase (ARE), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NOx), proinflammatory cytokines, and lipid profiles in aortic tissue, heart tissue, and serum was conducted in a sleep-deprived rat model. RESULTS: Chronic REM sleep deprivation led to a significant reduction in PON1 and ARE levels in aortic (p = 0.046, p = 0.035 respectively) and heart tissues (p = 0.020, p = 0.019 respectively), indicative of compromised antioxidant defenses. MDA levels increased, and NOx levels decreased, suggesting oxidative stress and impaired vascular function. Lipid profile alterations, including increased triglycerides and total cholesterol, were observed in serum. Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-alpha) further indicated an inflammatory response (p = 0.007, p = 0.018 respectively). GTE administration demonstrated a protective role, restoring antioxidant enzyme levels, suppressing lipid peroxidation, and improving NOx levels. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of GTE in alleviating the cardiovascular impairments of chronic REM sleep deprivation, emphasizing its candidacy for further clinical exploration as a natural intervention in sleep-related disorders and associated cardiovascular risks.