The effects of (-)-epicatechin on endothelial cells involve the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER).

ABSTRACT: We have provided evidence that the stimulatory effects of (-)-epicatechin ((-)-EPI) on endothelial cell nitric oxide (NO) production may involve the participation of a cell-surface receptor. Thus far, such entity(ies) has not been fully elucidated. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a cell-surface receptor that has been linked to protective effects on the cardiovascular system and activation of intracellular signaling pathways (including NO production) similar to those reported with (-)-EPI. In bovine coronary artery endothelial cells (BCAEC) by the use of confocal imaging, we evidence the presence of GPER at the cell-surface and on F-actin filaments. Using in silico studies we document the favorable binding mode between (-)-EPI and GPER. Such binding is comparable to that o

SUBMITTER: Moreno-Ulloa A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4555879 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature