Antihypertensive effects and mechanisms of chlorogenic acids

Hypertens Res. 2012 Apr;35(4):370-4. doi: 10.1038/hr.2011.195. Epub 2011 Nov 10.

Abstract

Chlorogenic acids (CGAs) are potent antioxidants found in certain foods and drinks, most notably in coffee. In recent years, basic and clinical investigations have implied that the consumption of chlorogenic acid can have an anti-hypertension effect. Mechanistically, the metabolites of CGAs attenuate oxidative stress (reactive oxygen species), which leads to the benefit of blood-pressure reduction through improved endothelial function and nitric oxide bioavailability in the arterial vasculature. This review article highlights the physiological and biochemical findings on this subject and highlights some remaining issues that merit further scientific and clinical exploration. In the framework of lifestyle modification for the management of cardiovascular risk factors, the dietary consumption of CGAs may hold promise for providing a non-pharmacological approach for the prevention and treatment of high blood pressure.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antihypertensive Agents / pharmacology
  • Antihypertensive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Blood Pressure / drug effects*
  • Chlorogenic Acid / pharmacology
  • Chlorogenic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / drug therapy*
  • Hypertension / metabolism
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism

Substances

  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Antioxidants
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Chlorogenic Acid