3.5. Agomelatine supplementation enhances endothelial function
The endothelium-dependent vasodilator response to acetylcholine of aortic rings was measured to analyse the functionality of the endothelium. The results showed a reduction in vasodilatory responses in the HFD group in comparison with control mice (Figure 10A). Improved endothelial relaxation could be observed in mice treated with the highest doses of agomelatine, as well as with melatonin and metformin. Since this could be related to the oxidative stress, the activity of the enzyme NADPH, the main source of reactive oxygen species in this location, was measured. Obese mice exhibited a more pronounced activation than the lean ones. The highest doses of agomelatine, melatonin and metformin downregulated it (Figure 10B).