Antihypertensive and Antioxidant Properties of Sialic Acid, the Major Component of Edible Bird's Nests

Sialic acid, the major component of edible bird's nests, was evaluated for its hypotensive and antioxidant activities. In the mesenteric arteries with complete endothelium but not with stripped off endothelium, sialic acid exhibited a dose-dependent relaxant effect suggesting a strong antihypertensive effect. In addition, sialic acid exhibited free radical elimination ability with a stronger scavenging ability for hydroxide radicals compared to DPPH radicals. In conclusion, the results presented herein provide a basis for clinical investigations into application of sialic acid as functional food for management of hypertension.