Four-week whey protein supplementation modulates biochemical and angiogenic parameters in rat cardiovascular tissues

Whey protein (WP) is widely used for its anabolic effects and potential cardiovascular benefits; however, its long-term effects on cardiac and vascular tissues remain unclear. This study assessed the biochemical, molecular, and morphological effects of a four-week WP supplementation (6 g/kg/day) in male Wistar rats. For this purpose, twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into control, sham, and WP groups. The WP group received 6 g/kg of WP in 1 ml tap water daily for one month; the sham group received only water, and the control group received no treatment. Immunohistochemistry was performed for Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Fibroblast Growth Factor-1 (FGF-1), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). Serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and glucose levels were assessed biochemically. WP significantly decreased serum total cholesterol, LDL-C, and glucose levels, while increasing serum HDL-C and triglyceride levels. Immunohistochemistry revealed elevated expression of VEGF and FGF-1 in the aortic tunica media and reduced aortic tunica intima thickness, without other histopathological alterations in cardiac or aortic tissues. WP supplementation elevated lipid levels and reduced glucose levels, without causing morphological damage. The increased expression of VEGF and FGF-1, along with significant changes in biochemical parameters, such as decreased total cholesterol, LDL-C, and glucose levels, and increased HDL-C and triglycerides, suggests that WP may influence molecular markers associated with vascular and metabolic processes. These findings underscore the necessity for further research to better understand the long-term cardiovascular implications of WP supplementation.