The antioxidant NAC made the heart cells in mice with heart failure produce about 30-40% less of the proteins that form scar tissue.
Scientific Claim
N-acetylcysteine treatment reduced cardiac collagen type I and type III mRNA expression by approximately 30-40% in a mouse model of heart failure with cardiac-specific MST-1 overexpression, compared to saline-treated controls.
Original Statement
“Expression of cardiac collagen type I and type III was significantly less in MST‐1 mice receiving NAC compared to those receiving saline (P ≤ 0.03; Fig. 8).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The claim correctly specifies the animal model and measurement method. It doesn't overstate to humans or imply causation beyond the study design.
More Accurate Statement
“N-acetylcysteine treatment was associated with reduced cardiac collagen type I and type III mRNA expression in a mouse model of heart failure with cardiac-specific MST-1 overexpression, compared to saline-treated controls.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
N‐acetylcysteine attenuates the development of cardiac fibrosis and remodeling in a mouse model of heart failure