A molybdenum nanorod-based nutritional strategy for cardiovascular and neurobehavioral health

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, highlighting the critical need for effective and accessible nutritional interventions. In this study, our findings suggest that dietary supplementation with food-grade potassium molybdate (K₂MoO₄) nanorod confers significant cardiovascular benefits in murine models, potentially mediated through enhanced antioxidant capacity, improved vascular remodeling and prevention of atherosclerosis. The synthesized K₂MoO₄ nanorod displayed high purity, physicochemical stability, and bioavailability, providing a reliable strategy for cardiovascular modulation. Crucially, in vitro evaluations demonstrated that K₂MoO₄ nanorod exerts robust endothelial cytoprotection and profound intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capabilities. In vivo, supplementation with K₂MoO₄ nanorod increased superoxide dismutase activity and xanthine oxidase levels, reduced malondialdehyde concentrations, and improved glucose metabolism, indicating reduced systemic oxidative stress and enhanced metabolic regulation. K₂MoO₄ nanorod also improved vascular elasticity, as evidenced by decreased aortic stiffness and collagen deposition. In mouse models of atherosclerosis, it significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation and lipid accumulation, showing its protective role against atherogenesis. Furthermore, K₂MoO₄ nanorod enhanced locomotor activity and alleviated anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. Together, these findings identify K₂MoO₄ nanorod as a bioavailable, multifunctional molybdenum-based nutrient that supports redox homeostasis and vascular function, accompanied by favorable changes in metabolic and behavioral phenotypes.