Ginkgo biloba Extract in Vascular Protection: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Applications

Title:Ginkgo biloba Extract in Vascular Protection: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Applications

Volume: 15 Issue: 6

Author(s): Jinfan Tian, Yue Liu* Keji Chen

Affiliation:

• Cardiovascular Disease Centre, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 100091, Beijing,China

Keywords: Ginkgo biloba, Ginkgo biloba Extract (GBE), vascular protection, molecular mechanisms, cardiovascular disease, Chinese medicine.

Abstract: Background: Leaves of Ginkgo biloba, a “living fossil,” have been used as traditional herbal medicine for hundreds of years in China. Currently, its application in vascular protection is garnering much attention.

Methods: In this manuscript, preclinical studies were reviewed to discuss various mechanisms underlying the vascular protection by Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE). Additionally, we reviewed clinical studies to present the application of GBE in the ischaemic disease.

Results: GBE, a commonly used dietary supplement, has been shown to act as an antioxidant and freeradical scavenger, a membrane stabilizer, an inhibitor of the platelet-activating factor, a vasodilator, and a regulator of metabolism. Currently, there exist a growing number of clinical studies about GBE in the application of cardiovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and diabetic vascular complications.

Conclusion: GBE, a promising therapeutic agent for cardiovascular and ischaemic diseases, exerts vascular- protection function by a comprehensive mechanisms.

Cite this article as:

Tian Jinfan , Liu Yue *, Chen Keji , Ginkgo biloba Extract in Vascular Protection: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Applications, Current Vascular Pharmacology 2017; 15 (6) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1570161115666170713095545