MG2-LIPIDS IN VASCULAR SMOOTH-MUSCLE - A LINK TO ATHEROGENESIS( MODULATES MEMBRANE)

Epidemiological studies associate low dietary magnesium intake with an increased incidence of ischemic heart disease and sudden cardiac deat h, We have used proton-magnetic resonance (H-1-NMR) techniques and Mg2 +-selective electrodes to monitor changes in lipid extracts of aortic and cerebrovascular smooth muscle as extracellular ionized magnesium i on concentration ([Mg2+](o),) is lowered, We have found that, within t he pathophysiological range of Mg2+ concentrations, fatty acid chain l ength and double bond content are progressively reduced as [Mg2+](o), is lowered, In contrast, the plasmalogen content is progressively incr eased, A concomitant decrease in fatty acid chain length and double bo nds indicates oxidation of double bonds resulting in truncation of the fatty acids, A decrease in lipid oxidation in the presence of elevate d Mg2+ could contribute to the apparent protective role of increased M g2+ intake on vascular function in humans. (C) 1997 Federation of Euro pean Biochemical Societies.