HBO's Impact on the Prevention and Therapy of Atherosclerotic Heart Disease through Matrix Metalloproteinase-12 (MMP-12) Expression

Background: The utilization and advancement of hyperbaric science continue to evolve, encompassing the investigation of cardiovascular disease. Macrophage activation stimulates the expression of matrix metalloproteinases, specifically MMP-12, which play a crucial role in atherosclerosis by influencing vascular tissue. Methods: This study aimed to examine MMP-12 expression in cardiovascular disease induced by an atherogenic high-fat diet and explore the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Previous research has focused on the primary mechanism of hyperbaric oxygen therapy through the SIRT1 (Sirtuin) pathway, which addresses endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis treatment. However, the impact of HBO utilization on the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease remains unexplored. Results: Molecular analysis of MMP-12 was conducted using a rat model administered a high-fat diet, followed by HBO treatment. Endothelial dysfunction caused by the high-fat diet was identified as a marker of cardiovascular disease, assessed by endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels. The administration of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) yielded significant improvements in atherosclerosis and heart disease. The results, with a p-value of 0.05, were significant for both the treatment and prevention of atherosclerotic heart disease in the two groups used as models. Conclusion: Sprague Dawley rats subjected to hyperbaric oxygen therapy at a pressure of 2.4 ATA, three sessions of 30 minutes each, for ten consecutive days, demonstrated potential for application in cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment.