Akio Iioa,∗, Kenji Ohguchia,b, Hiroe Maruyamac, Shigemi Tazawac, Yoko Arakic, Kenji Ichiharac, Yoshinori Nozawaa,d, Masafumi Itoa
a Gifu International Institute of Biotechnology, 1-1 Naka-Fudogaoka, Kakamigahara, Gifu 504-0838, Japan b Department of Human Nutrition, Sugiyama Jogakuen University, 17-3 Hoshigaoka-Motomachi, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8662, Japan c Nagaragawa Research Center, Api Co. Ltd., 692-3 Yamasaki, Nagara, Gifu 502-0071, Japan d Department of Food and Health, Tokai Gakuin University, 5-68 Naka-Kirinocho, Kakamigahara, Gifu 504-8511, Japan
Abstract
The ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) is a membrane transporter that directly contributes to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) biogenesis by regulating the cellular efflux of cholesterol. Since ABCA1 plays a pivotal role in cholesterol homeostasis and HDL metabolism, identification of a novel substance that is capable of increasing its expression would be beneficial for the prevention and therapy of atherosclerosis. In the present study, we studied the effects of ethanolic extracts of Brazilian red propolis (EERP) on ABCA1 expression and cholesterol efflux in THP-1 macrophages. EERP enhanced PPAR
* THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.