Cardiac protection of germinated brown rice extract in rabbit model of chronic myocardial infarction

Ischemic heart disease is a leading cause of mortality in the world. This study aimed to investigate the cardioprotective effects of germinated brown rice (GBR) on a rabbit model of chronic myocardial infarction. Eighteen New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into three groups receiving: 1) regular rabbit food; 2) regular rabbit food plus vehicle; and 3) regular rabbit food plus GBR for 120 d. The left circumflex coronary artery was ligated to induce myocardial ischemia 60 d after starting the experiment (baseline). Heart functions were monitored by electrocardiography and echocardiography at 0, 30, and 60 d after coronary artery ligation. The incidences of heart rate (HR) and ventricular arrhythmias have been compared between groups. GBR showed the effects to prevent life-threatening ventricular tachycardia and electrocardiographic signs of myocardial ischemia in a model of arrhythmias. GBR consumption group exhibited significantly improved cardiac function and reduced the HR, along with reduced mean arterial pressure and plasma glucose level. The results demonstrated that GBR exerts cardioprotective effects against chronic myocardial injury in rabbits. These biological actions of GBR may explain the benefits gained from the use of GBR products as a possible prophylactic lifestyle intervention.