Volume 1290, Issue 1 p. 52-58
Original Article

Evidence for circulatory benefits of resveratrol in humans

Rachel H.X. Wong

Rachel H.X. Wong

Nutritional Physiology Research Centre, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia

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Alison M. Coates

Alison M. Coates

Nutritional Physiology Research Centre, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia

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Jonathan D. Buckley

Jonathan D. Buckley

Nutritional Physiology Research Centre, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia

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Peter R.C. Howe

Corresponding Author

Peter R.C. Howe

Nutritional Physiology Research Centre, Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia

Clinical Nutrition Research Centre, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia

Address for correspondence: Peter R.C. Howe, Clinical Nutrition Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia. [email protected]Search for more papers by this author
First published: 15 July 2013
Citations: 29

Abstract

Impairments of endothelial function, which can be assessed noninvasively by flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. Associations between FMD and cognition suggest a vascular component in the loss of cognitive function. Certain vasoactive nutrients that have been shown to improve FMD may also have the potential to enhance cerebral perfusion and cognition. Preclinical studies show that trans-resveratrol can enhance nitric oxide bioavailability, thereby increasing endothelium-dependent vasodilation. We have now shown that acute administration of resveratrol elicits dose-dependent increases of FMD with greater potency than other vasoactive nutrients and that this benefit is sustained following regular consumption. We describe the potential implications of this vasodilator benefit of resveratrol and its role in enhancing cerebrovascular and cognitive functions.