pantetheine and Atherosclerosis

Pantethine, the stable disulfide form of pantetheine, is the major precursor of coenzyme A, which plays a central role in the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates. Coenzyme A is a cofactor in over 70 enzymatic pathways, including fatty acid oxidation, carbohydrate metabolism, pyruvate degradation, amino acid catabolism, haem synthesis, acetylcholine synthesis, phase II detoxification, acetylation, etc. Pantethine has beneficial effects in vascular disease, it able to decrease the hyperlipidaemia, moderate the platelet function and prevent the lipid-peroxidation. Moreover its neuro-endocrinological regulating role, its good influence on cataract and cystinosis are also proved. This molecule is a well-tolerated therapeutic agent; the frequency of its side-effect is very low and mild. Based on these preclinical and clinical data, it could be recommended using this compound as adjuvant therapy.

Topics: Acetylcholine; Animals; Antioxidants; Atherosclerosis; Blood Platelets; Cataract; Central Nervous System; Coenzyme A; Cystine; Cystinosis; Dietary Carbohydrates; Fatty Acids; Humans; Hyperlipidemias; Hypolipidemic Agents; Lipid Peroxidation; Oxidation-Reduction; Pantetheine; Pantothenic Acid; Pyruvates

The combination of a lipid-lowering diet and scientifically proven nutraceutical supplements has the ability to significantly reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, increase LDL particle size, decrease LDL particle number, lower trigylcerides and very LDL levels, and increase total and high-density lipoprotein 2b cholesterol. In addition, inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune responses are decreased. In several prospective clinical trials, coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease have been reduced with many nutraceutical supplements. This nutritional and nutraceutical supplement treatment is a valid alternative for patients who are intolerant to statins, cannot take other drugs for the treatment of dyslipidemia, or prefer alternative treatments. This new approach to lipid management to decrease vascular disease utilizes a functional medicine approach with a broader treatment program that will address the multitude of steps involved in lipid-induced vascular damage.

Topics: Atherosclerosis; Dietary Fats; Dietary Supplements; Dyslipidemias; Humans; Lipoproteins; Lipoproteins, VLDL; Oxidative Stress; Pantetheine; Resveratrol; Stilbenes; Tocotrienols; Triglycerides; Vascular Diseases; Vasodilator Agents