Interaction of resveratrol and oestradiol in isolated arterial rings

Red wine is known to give some protection against heart disease, probably by compounds known as phenolics which are found in red grapes. One of these compounds (resveratrol) is known to cause relaxation of isolated blood vessels and may act at targets (receptors) used by female sex hormones (oestrogens). This project aims to look at the interaction of resveratrol with oestradiol, the major human oestrogen. A better understanding of the mode of action of compounds such as resveratrol would highlight the importance of considering its interaction with oestrogen receptors throughout the body, especially for example in breast tissue.