# Oleaceae plants: a source of metabolites with atheroprotective potential

## TL;DR

Oleaceae plants contain bioactive compounds that may help prevent atherosclerosis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

## Contribution

This review identifies Oleaceae phytochemicals as multi-targeted agents with potential for atheroprotective applications.

## Key findings

- Oleaceae metabolites activate antioxidant pathways and inhibit inflammation.
- Preclinical studies show strong anti-atherosclerotic effects of these compounds.
- Polyphenol-rich olive oil is linked to improved cardiovascular health in clinical evidence.

## Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, driven by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid imbalance, and plaque instability. Bioactive metabolites found in plants of the Oleaceae family, particularly olives (Olea europaea L.), have emerged as promising modulators of these processes. This narrative review highlights several key phytochemicals, such as oleacein and oleuropein (secoiridoids), hydroxytyrosol and oleocanthal (phenylethanoids), acteoside and syringin (phenylpropanoids), oleanolic and ursolic acids (triterpenoids), phillygenin (lignans), caffeic and chlorogenic acids (phenolic acids). These metabolites act by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant defence pathway, inhibiting NF-κB-driven inflammation, regulating cholesterol transport (ABCA1/ABCG1 and CD36), protecting the endothelium, and stabilising atherosclerotic plaque. Preclinical studies consistently demonstrate strong anti-atherosclerotic activity, while clinical evidence mainly supports the consumption of polyphenol-rich extra virgin olive oil, which has been linked to improved endothelial function, reduced oxidative and inflammatory markers, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. However, robust trials of purified compounds and non-olive Oleaceae species are lacking. Oleaceae-derived phytochemicals offer multi-targeted cardioprotective potential, but their translation into clinical applications remains limited.

Diagram illustrating various natural compounds and their associated plant images around a central theme of "Anti-Atherosclerosis". Compounds listed include oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, oleacein, and others, with benefits such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and endothelial protection.