Food Science & Nutrition Research
Open AccessPlant-Derived Methyl-Eugenol as a Selective Modulator of Platelet Function and a Potential Cardiovascular Protective Agent
Authors: Yi Chang, Joen-Rong Sheu, Chih-Wei Hsia, Wei-Chieh Huang.
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, with arterial thrombosis representing a central mechanism. Platelets, though anucleate, coordinate adhesion, aggregation, and secretion events that stabilize thrombus formation. Collagen- and von Willebrand factor–mediated adhesion activates intracellular pathways, culminating in integrin αIIbβ? activation, granule release, and thromboxane A? synthesis. While current antiplatelet agents are clinically important, their limitations highlight the need for alternative strategies. Methyl eugenol is a naturally occurring constituent of various plants, including Croton malambo, Cinnamomum cordatum, and Melaleuca bracteata; however, its role in platelet activation remains unclear. This study, methyl-eugenol significantly inhibited collagen-induced aggregation in a dose- dependent manner (20–80 μM) without affecting thrombin-induced responses, indicating agonist selectivity. It also suppressed collagen-induced ATP release and markedly reduced P-selectin expression, reflecting inhibition of dense and α-granule secretion. These findings reveal that methyl-eugenol selectively attenuates collagen- mediated platelet activation, providing mechanistic insights and supporting its potential as a natural scaffold for future antithrombotic development.
Editor-in-Chief
View full editorial board →