A synthetic avenanthramide modulates key functional properties of H9c2 cardiomyoblasts

Cell migration and oxidative stress play pivotal roles in cardiac repair and protection. Here, we investigate a synthetic analogue of avenanthramides (referred to as xxAvex*) for its cytoprotective and regenerative properties in vitro, using H9C2 rat cardiomyoblasts. Avenanthramides are oat-derived polyphenols with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, but their poor pharmacokinetics limit therapeutic application. Chemical modifications in xxAvex aim to overcome these limitations, although its biological actions remain poorly characterized. We tested xxAvex at concentrations ranging from 25 to 200 µM over 24, 48, and 72 hours, and evaluated cell viability using the MTT assay, with resveratrol as a reference compound. We assessed cell migration using a Transwell assay and regenerative capacity via a scratch-wound assay (50–100 µM). To evaluate oxidative stress, we used the DCFDA assay following a cardiotoxic insult. Preliminary data have shown that xxAvex did not affect cell viability, unlike resveratrol. However, it promoted cardiomyoblast migration in a dose-dependent manner and reduced intracellular ROS levels, indicating both pro-migratory and antioxidant activity. In conclusion, xxAvex displays pro-regenerative, pro-migratory, and cytoprotective properties. To further define its potential as a cardioprotective agent, we are currently investigating its ability to counteract anthracycline-induced cytotoxicity in cardiomyoblasts. *Compound name confidential; patent pending