Beneficial effect of Tribulus terrestris L. against ischemia in H9c2 cells and isoproterenol induced cardiac dysfunctions in rats

Abstract

Myocardial ischemia is caused by the inadequate supply of blood to the myocardium usually as a result of coronary artery disease. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide and coronary artery disease is the greatest contributor, with 7.5 million deaths annually. Currently available drugs are able to alleviate the symptoms but have undesirable effects and secondary complications. Tribulus terrestris L. root and fruit are used in Ayurveda to treat heart ailments. But a scientific validation of the protective property of the herb against myocardial ischemia and the mechanism by which Tribulus terrestris L. mediates the protection has not been carried out. The objective of the present thesis is to elucidate the molecular mechanism of the beneficial property of Tribulus terrestris L. fruit and root against myocardial ischemia and cardiac dysfunctions by employing in vitro and in vivo models.