Baicalein alleviates palmitic acid-induced endothelial cell dysfunction via inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress

Endothelial cells play a critical role in maintaining vascular function and kinetic homeostasis, but excessive accumulation of palmitic acid (PA) may lead to endoplasmic reticulum stress and trigger endothelial cell dysfunction. Baicalin (BCL), a natural plant extract, has received widespread attention for its biological activities in anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative stress. However, the mechanism of BCL on PA-induced endothelial cell dysfunction is unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether BCL could inhibit PA-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and thus attenuate endothelial cell dysfunction.