Oxidative Stress–Mediated Cardiac Injury and Cardioprotective Potential of Medicinal Plants with Special Reference to Operculina Turpethum: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with oxidative stress playing a pivotal role in myocardial injury. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) induce lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA damage, leading to cardiomyocyte dysfunction and apoptosis. Biomarkers such as CK-MB, troponins, and lactate dehydrogenase are essential for early detection and monitoring of cardiac injury. In-vitro models using cardiomyocytes allow mechanistic studies of oxidative injury and screening of cardioprotective agents. Medicinal plants, particularly Operculina turpethum, have demonstrated significant antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activities, highlighting their potential in cardioprotection. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms of oxidative stressmediated cardiac injury, in-vitro screening models, and the cardioprotective potential of O. turpethum, while identifying research gaps and future directions.