Anti?atherosclerotic effect of aged garlic extract: Mode of action and therapeutic benefits (Review)

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by plaque buildup within the arteries that obstructs blood flow and significantly increases the morbidity and mortality rates associated with cardiovascular diseases caused by impaired blood flow due to vascular stenosis or occlusion, such as angina and myocardial infarction. The development of atherosclerosis involves a complex interplay of endothelial dysfunction, accumulation of oxidized low-density lipoprotein and macrophage-driven inflammation. The risk factors for atherosclerosis include chronic inflammation, hyperlipidemia and hypertension. Effective management of these risk factors can prevent and delay the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. Garlic and its processed preparations have previously been utilized to mitigate cardiovascular risk factors and continue to be used in traditional medicine in several countries. Among these preparations, aged garlic extract (AGE) has been shown to improve atherosclerosis in clinical trials and animal studies. AGE contains various compounds with potential anti-atherosclerotic properties, such as S-1-propenylcysteine, S-allylcysteine and other sulfur-containing constituents, which may help prevent the development and progression of atherosclerosis. The present manuscript reviewed and discussed the anti-atherogenic effect of AGE and its constituents by highlighting their mode of action and potential benefits for prevention and therapy in the management of atherosclerosis.