A RANDOMIZED TRIAL OF ANTHOCYANIN-RICH PURPLE-FLESHED POTATOES ON VASCULAR FUNCTION AND DNA METHYLATION IN ADULTS WITH HYPERTENSION.
Keywords:
Anthocyanins; Cardiovascular Aging; DNA Methylation; Endothelial Function; Hypertension; Oxidative Stress; Vascular StiffnessAbstract
Background: Hypertension accelerates vascular aging through endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and adverse epigenetic alterations. Anthocyanin-rich foods have been linked to cardioprotective effects, yet evidence from whole-food interventions assessing both vascular and epigenetic outcomes remains limited.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of daily consumption of anthocyanin-rich purple-fleshed potatoes on endothelial function and DNA methylation markers associated with cardiovascular aging in adults with hypertension.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among adults with primary hypertension who were allocated to either an anthocyanin-rich purple-fleshed potato intervention or a control diet for six weeks. Flow-mediated dilation and pulse wave velocity were assessed as indicators of vascular function. Global and gene-specific DNA methylation, including LINE-1 and NRF2 promoter methylation, were quantified to evaluate epigenetic shifts. Inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers were measured to support mechanistic interpretation.
Results: Participants consuming purple-fleshed potatoes demonstrated a notable improvement in endothelial function, reflected by an increase in flow-mediated dilation and a reduction in arterial stiffness compared with controls. Significant epigenetic changes were observed, including increased LINE-1 methylation and reduced NRF2 promoter methylation. Biochemical markers showed decreased oxidized LDL and C-reactive protein, along with higher nitric oxide metabolites, indicating reduced oxidative stress and improved vascular signaling. No adverse metabolic effects occurred during the intervention.
Conclusion: Daily intake of anthocyanin-rich purple-fleshed potatoes improved vascular function and produced favorable epigenetic modifications related to cardiovascular aging. These findings support the potential of anthocyanin-dense whole foods as practical dietary strategies for promoting vascular health in adults with hypertension.
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