Vascular effects of diet supplementation with plant sterols.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate vascular effects of diet supplementation with plant sterol esters (PSE). Background Plant sterol esters are used as food supplements to reduce cholesterol levels. Their effects on endothelial function, stroke, or atherogenesis are not known. Methods In mice, plasma sterol concentrations were correlated with endothelial function, cerebral lesion size, and atherosclerosis. Plasma and tissue sterol concentrations were measured by gas-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in 82 consecutive patients with aortic stenosis. Results Compared with those fed with normal chow (NC), wild-type mice fed with NC supplemented with 2% PSE showed increase…