Small Animal Models of Cardiovascular Disease for Evaluating the Cholesterol-Lowering Activity of Probiotic Strains

• Datum: 2025
• Hauptverfasser: Starovoitova, S.O., Polova, Z.M., Kishko, K.M., Boiko, V.M., Старовойтова, С.О., Полова, Ж.М., Кишко, К.М., Бойко, В.М.
• Format: Artikel
• Sprache: English
• Veröffentlicht: PH "Akademperiodyka" of the NAS of Ukraine 2025
• Online Zugang: https://ojs.microbiolj.org.ua/index.php/mj/article/view/270
• Назва журналу: Microbiological Journal

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are major contributors to global morbidity and mortality, causing approximately 17 million deaths annually worldwide. The incidence of CVDs is rising among economically productive age groups, exacerbated by increasing rates of diabetes, obesity, and smoking-related conditions. Despite significant advances in managing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the residual risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) persists, partly attributed to remnant cholesterol in triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. This review aims to evaluate suitable animal models of CVD for demonstrating the therapeutic efficacy of probiotic strains with cholesterol-lowering activity. Animal models that closely mimic human CVD conditions are essential for elucidating underlying disease mechanisms. Probiotics have shown promising preventive effects on CVD through the restoration of gut microbiota dysbiosis and anti-inflammatory responses. Mechanisms include reduction of oxidative stress, lowering of hypercholesterolemia, and modulation of bile acid metabolism. The advantages and limitations of animal models in CVD research are discussed, highlighting the strength of rodent models such as mice, which are cost-effective, genetically manipulable, and replicate key aspects of human CVD pathophysiology. Various contemporary mouse models are reviewed for their suitability in studying atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and other CVDs. Each model offers unique insights into disease mechanisms and responses to therapeutic interventions. Thus, selecting appropriate animal models is crucial for advancing our understanding of probiotic-mediated therapies in CVD. By leveraging these models, researchers can explore novel strategies to mitigate CVD risk factors and enhance therapeutic outcomes.