Grapefruit biomolecules may herald new treatment for heart disease

New research published in the 'Biochemical Journal' has identified molecules occurring naturally in fruit that may play an important role in the future treatment of heart disease. Molecules called flavanoids, which are found in citrus fruits - particularly grapefruit - have proven effective at reducing the inflammation which can lead to deadly cardiovascular disease. These molecules may hold the key to the development of a new generation of anti-inflammatory drugs which are cheaper, easier to produce and less toxic than current therapies. Despite the widespread use of a range of new drugs that combat blood pressure and lower cholesterol, cardiovascular disease is still recognised as the number one cause of death globally and incidences are increasing. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that the number of people who will die from cardiovascular diseases each year will reach 23.3 million by 2030. Many diseases of the circulatory system are linked to the improper activation of immune cells, which then stick to the so called vascular endothelial cells (VECs) that line the blood vessels. This can begin a process of excessive inflammation through the local production of immune molecules, blocking the blood vessels and causing deadly cardiovascular disease.