Cardiovascular benefits of standardized Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliot extract: Insights from a short-term pilot randomized human trial and cell culture studies

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a major global health burden, emphasizing the need for effective preventive strategies. Polyphenols in Aronia melanocarpa (AM) have emerged as promising candidates due to their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study evaluated the effectiveness of standardized AM extract supplementation in mitigating CVD risk factors through a 6-week pilot randomized human trial and in vitro experiments. The human trial demonstrated significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) levels in the supplemented group. In vitro studies confirmed AM extract's anti-inflammatory effects, as indicated by reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules in human endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Additionally, AM extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity and enhanced nitric oxide (NO) production in cells. These findings underscore the potential of AM extract to improve lipid profiles, vascular function, and liver health, supporting its role in CVD prevention and management. • AM extract shows strong anti- inflammatory and antioxidant properties. • AM extract enhances NO production, supporting vascular health. • AM supplementation improves cholesterol levels and liver function in patients. • Findings highlight AM extract as a potent candidate for CVD prevention.