This study explores the potential health benefits of resveratrol (RES) supplementation for treating cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in dogs, focusing on its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardioprotective effects. RES, a polyphenol found in plants like grapes, has been shown to positively affect the coagulation system, vasodilation, and blood flow. It may help prevent and manage CVD in both humans and dogs, who share similar physiological traits.
RES has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, impacting various pathways like SOD activity, the SIRT1/AMPK pathway, and NF-κB, all of which contribute to its cardioprotective effects. RES is commonly used in human medicine for conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cancer, and is attributed with benefits like antiatherosclerosis and antihypertensive effects. Veterinarians are investigating whether it could have similar effects in dogs with CVD.
Despite limited research in dogs, RES has shown promise in improving cardiovascular health, including reducing inflammation and enhancing myocardial energy production. RES may also help protect against chemotherapy-related cardiac toxicity. In studies with hemangiosarcoma, RES combined with doxorubicin enhanced anti-tumor effects, though it might also interfere with drug action by inhibiting P-glycoprotein, potentially reducing cardiotoxicity.
Furthermore, RES has antiproliferative effects in canine cancers like histiocytic sarcoma, suggesting it could work through similar mechanisms as in humans. However, its use in cancer treatment may have drawbacks, such as promoting tumor growth in certain cancers like melanoma.
Overall, RES shows potential in treating CVD in dogs by activating key antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. It may also serve as an antiplatelet agent, benefiting cardiac patients or those undergoing surgery. While more research is needed, particularly on its effects on heart cells, RES is promising for future clinical trials, especially for aging dogs. Future studies should also focus on improving its bioavailability for better therapeutic outcomes.
