THE INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECTS OF VITAMIN D AND OMEGA 3 ON VENA CAVA

Abstract

Objective: Vitamin D has a protective role in the cardiovascular system and it affects blood pressure. Omega-3 fatty acids are dietary fats gained from fish and plant oils and involve in coronary heart disease and other cardiovascular complications. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of Vitamin D and Omega 3 on the vascular structure at the cellular level. Material and Methods: In the current study, a total of 24 rats were divided into 4 groups. Each group contained 6 animals. The groups are as follows; control, vitamin D, Omega 3; and combined Vitamin D and Omega 3. Vena cava samples from all groups were obtained and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for histological alternations. Additionally, endothelial and vascular functions were investigated immunohistochemically. Results: The H&E staining revealed that the treatment of either Vitamin D or Omega 3 did not cause histomorphological changes in the structure of the vena cava under normal conditions. The immunoexpression of inducible nitric oxide synthase was decreased and vascular endothelial growth factor was increased in the vena cava of rats with the combined treatment of Vitamin D and Omega 3. Conclusion: In conclusion, combined supplements of Vitamin D and Omega 3 did not have harmful effects on the blood vessel however further studies should be performed to determine the beneficial effects of these supplements.