Hypolipidaemic and anti-atherosclerotic effects of lupin proteins in a rabbit model

The biological activities of a protein isolate from lupin (Lupinus albus) were studied in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis. Focal plaque development was induced at both common carotid arteries by perivascular injury. After surgery. animals were fed three different diets for 90d, all with 1% cholesterol. 15 % SFA and 20 % protein: the protein source was casein (CAS), lupin proteins (LUP) or 50 % CAS + 50 % LUP (CAS + LUP). Lower cholesterolaemia was detected in the LUP v. the CAS group at 60 and 90 d of treatment (- 40.3 and - 33-5 %, respectively; P<0-05). Cryosection analyses of the carotids indicated a significant reduction in focal lesion progression in the LUP v. the CAS group (-37.4%; P<0.05). In summary. in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis. a protein isolate from L. albus reduced cholesterolaemia and exerted a remarkable protective activity against atherosclerosis progression.