Histopathological Evidence of Early Coronary Atherosclerosis in an Obese Rat Model Fed with High-Fat and Fructose Diet

Background: Atherosclerosis is a major cardiovascular complication associated with obesity. Experimental models often require proinflammatory induction, while the direct effect of a high-fat and high-fructose diet (HFHF) on coronary artery pathology remains underexplored. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate histopathological changes in coronary arteries of obese rats subjected to HFHF diet. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into control (AIN-93 diet) and HFHF groups for 12 weeks. Coronary arteries were processed for H&E staining. Lesions were assessed using histopathological atherosclerosis scoring (0–3) and measurement of intimal thickness with ImageJ. Data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney test, p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Rats receiving HFHF diet developed obesity (increased body weight and Lee’s index, p < 0.05). Coronary arteries of HFHF group showed significant higher scores histopathological atherosclerosis compared to controls. Lesions included endothelial discontinuity, foam cells, and vascular smooth muscle cell disorientation. Conclusion: HFHF diet for 12 weeks is sufficient to induce coronary artery lesions in obese rats without additional inflammatory induction. Keywords: atherosclerosis, coronary arteries, high fat diet and fructose, histopathology, obesity