Abstract: AIM: To observe the effects of glucomannan on nitric oxide(NO),endothelin(ET),lipid peroxide and superoxide dismutase(SOD)in experimental atherosclerotic rabbits.METHODS: An atherosclerotic rabbit model was established by feeding high cholesterol diet supplemented by bovine serum albumin injection bolus.The rabbits were randomly divided into the control,model,and glucomanan treatment group.Blood samples were collected 8 weeks after the treatment.RESULTS: After glucomanan administration for 8 wk,the NO and activity of SOD increased in comparison with model group(p<0.01),while MDA and ET decreased(p<0.01).CONCLUSION: Glucomanan has the effects of antioxidation,preserving endothelial function,and maintaining the balance of NO/ET.

Key words: atherosclerosis, nitric oxide, endothelin, lipid peroxide, glucomanan