Hydroxytyrosol has a cardioprotective effect through dardarin and asprosin

Introduction In this investigation, we explored the potential involvement of dardarin (LRRK2) and asprosin in the protective efficacy of hydroxytyrosol (HT) against heart damage induced by corn syrup in rats. Material and methods The research was conducted at the Adıyaman University Experimental Research Center during the period from December 8, 2021, to July 12, 2023. Rats were categorized into four groups (n = 6) as follows: control, HT, corn syrup, and corn syrup + HT. Over a span of 6 weeks, rats were administered water infused with 30% corn syrup. Simultaneously, a 4 ml/kg/day solution containing HT was orally administered, both independently and in conjunction with corn syrup, throughout the 6-week period. The molecular parameters of LRRK2 and asprosin in the cardiac tissue were assessed through histopathological examination. Results In this study, it was observed that the LRRK2 level increased and the asprosin level decreased in the control group as a result of administration of corn syrup. After HT treatment, the LRRK2 level decreased non-significantly, while the asprosin level increased significantly. No difference was seen in the HT-only group compared to the control. Conclusions The protective effect of HT against damage to the heart due to corn syrup consumption may be mediated by LRRK2 and asprosin.