Flavanol Science and Cardiovascular Pharmacology

Flavanols, in particular (-)-epicatechin monomers derived from food sources have now been shown to enhance the liberation, and maintain the stability of, nitric oxide produced by L-argenine in the endothelial cells which line the inner most surface of the vasculature. We provide the following links to discussions provided by Professor Moncada which help to illuminate a short history of the development of the greater understanding of the importance of nitric oxide in the cardiovascular system.

Professor Moncada (FRS and Director of the UCL Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research) is one of the most often cited scientist in the UK, having made major contributions in three areas of cardiovascular pharmacology. Since his ‘Nature’ paper of June 1987 – "Nitric oxide release accounts for the biological activity of endothelium-derived relaxing factor” – nitric oxide has become appreciated as a neurotransmitter, a regulator of vessel tone, a modulator of inflammation, and a sensor of cellular distress. Nitric oxide is both the target and mediator of a range of compounds for the treatment of cardiovascular, rheumatic and cancer diseases.

Note: This website provides medical information and specifically does NOT provide medical advice. Some Videos, are provided by courtesy of the Wellcome Trust - History of Medicine