Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs)

Clinical trial

Mechanism of Action

Cross-links collagen and elastin; potent antioxidant reducing capillary fragility; inhibits elastase

Positive inotropic effect via cAMP phosphodiesterase inhibition; endothelial nitric oxide synthase activation; antioxidant protection of LDL oxidation

Inhibit cAMP phosphodiesterase, increasing myocardial contractility (positive inotropy); scavenge free radicals and protect LDL from oxidation; inhibit ACE (mild antihypertensive); anti-inflammatory via NF-κB suppression; inhibit platelet aggregation via TXA2 reduction

Research Notes

Grape Seed (Draksha)Western

OPCs demonstrate superior antioxidant activity with 20-50x potency of vitamins C and E. Improve vascular integrity through structural protein reinforcement. Clinical efficacy in chronic venous insufficiency and retinopathy.

HawthornWestern

Multiple RCTs demonstrate improved cardiac output and exercise tolerance in NYHA class II-III heart failure patients (WS 1442 extract). Meta-analysis of 14 trials shows significant reduction in symptoms and improved maximal workload.

Shan Zha (山楂)TCM

OPCs from hawthorn are the primary active cardiovascular constituents in standardized extract WS 1442. Multiple European RCTs document modest but statistically significant improvements in exercise tolerance and symptom scores in NYHA class I-III heart failure. Antioxidant capacity confirmed in vitro and human studies. Hypolipidemic effects demonstrated in animal and several human clinical trials.

Found In 3 Herbs

3D Molecular Structure

Proanthocyanidin polymer

Drag to rotate · Click atoms to explore

Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs)

Proanthocyanidin polymerBioactive phytochemical with therapeutic properties

Representative pattern: C₄H₂NO

Atoms

Carbon

Oxygen

Nitrogen

Hydrogen

Live Research

Open on PubMed

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