Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

Changes in the physical properties of our blood vessels (specifically onset of stiffness or hardening of the arteries) occur early (i.e. presymptomatic), but are difficult to detect. Furthermore, equipment capable of diagnosing an increase in arterial stiffness is not available for the standard clinic. Recent studies have suggested arterial stiffness occurs early and indicates a higher risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Nevertheless, this early marker of heart disease may be amenable to lifestyle changes. The role of diet may be especially relevant, since various compounds derived from plants have been linked to improvements in arterial stiffness. Consequently, higher consumption of these compounds may slow or prevent these diseases. Pulse crops (peas, beans, lentils, chickpeas) and legumes (including soybeans) are well known for their high fibre content and low glycemic load. It is now becoming recognized, however, that pulse crops also contain substantial quantities of phytochemicals that provide additional benefit. It is recognized that these phytochemicals can improve blood flow and arterial stiffness, but no studies have directly examined these compounds in pulses. However, in a recently completed human study, we showed that increased consumption of pulses leads to improved blood flow and arterial elasticity in persons with peripheral arterial disease, another marker of increased heart disease risk. Not only do these data suggest a diet with higher levels of pulses can effectively control heart disease, but that this diet can be used as a way to treat the disease. Our intent is to identify and characterize the molecule in pulse crops that has been shown to decrease arterial stiffness. This molecule will then be available for incorporation into novel enriched or fortified functional food products, or utilized in its purified form as a nutraceutical. Successful completion of this research project will lead to the development of products for human consumption that will enhance the commercial value of pulse crops due to strong market interest in the underlying therapeutic applications.