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Volume 22, Issue 3
  • ISSN: 1570-1638
  • E-ISSN: 1875-6220

Abstract

Background

is a Moroccan endemic thyme species that is traditionally used as an aromatic and medicinal plant. Several studies have demonstrated its pharmacological significance and therapeutic value.

Objective

The current study aimed to assess the vasorelaxant effect of the aqueous extract of this species.

Methods

The contractility of isolated rat aortas was investigated using the multi-well organ bath technique. This method was adapted and validated in our experimental conditions using epinephrine and hydralazine as vasoconstrictive and vasodilator agents, respectively. The application of 10 µM epinephrine induced a clear vasoconstriction of the aorta rings (Lumen reduction = 31.8±0.4%). However, hydralazine induced a dose-dependent relaxation with an EC value of 6.1±1.2 mM. For the aqueous extract of , the aortic rings were precontracted with epinephrine, and then increasing concentrations (0.125-1 mg/mL) of this extract were added cumulatively.

Results

The results have indicated extract to have a significant vasodilatory effect in a dose-dependent manner (EC = 0.52±0.03 mg/mL).

Conclusion

The findings provide preliminary evidence of the vasorelaxant effect of the aqueous extract of using a low-cost optical approach. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this effect have yet to be revealed.

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2024-11-04
2025-06-18

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/content/journals/cddt/10.2174/0115701638309612240726060844
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Preliminary Characterization of the Vasorelaxant Effect of Thymus atlanticus (Ball) Roussine using Optical Methods
Current Drug Discovery Technologies 22, E15701638309612 (2025); https://doi.org/10.2174/0115701638309612240726060844
/content/journals/cddt/10.2174/0115701638309612240726060844
/content/journals/cddt/10.2174/0115701638309612240726060844
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keyword(s): aqueous extract; isolated aorta; multi-well plate; optical methods; Thymus atlanticus; vasorelaxation

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