Chamomile flower extract modulates cardiac Notch signaling induced by metabolic syndrome in a rat model

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major cardiovascular risk condition characterized by insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and oxidative stress, which collectively contribute to cardiac injury. The Notch signaling pathway plays a critical role in cardiovascular homeostasis, and emerging evidence suggests that metabolic stress may disrupt cardiac Notch signaling. Chamomile flower extract (CFE) has demonstrated metabolic and antioxidant benefits; however, its effect on cardiac Notch signaling under MetS conditions remains unclear. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the impact of MetS on cardiac Notch signaling and to evaluate the modulatory effect of CFE in a rat model of MetS. Methods: Male Wistar rats were allocated into control, MetS, and MetS + CFE groups. MetS was induced using a high-fat diet combined with high-fructose drinking water. Body weight, fasting blood glucose, and lipid parameters were assessed. Cardiac mRNA expression levels of Nox-4, Notch-1, and Jagged-1 were quantified using RT-qPCR. Results: MetS rats exhibited significant metabolic disturbances, including increased body weight, fasting blood glucose, serum triglycerides, and total cholesterol, together with reduced HDL levels, compared with controls. These changes were accompanied by marked upregulation of cardiac Nox-4, Notch-1, and Jagged-1 mRNA expression levels. Treatment with CFE significantly improved metabolic parameters, reduced oxidative stress–related gene expression, and attenuated MetS-associated transcriptional upregulation of cardiac Notch-1. Conclusion: MetS is associated with transcriptional dysregulation of the cardiac Notch signaling pathway. CFE improves cardiometabolic status and modulates cardiac Notch-related gene expression, potentially through attenuation of oxidative stress and metabolic burden.