Effects of the total flavone of radix puerariae on apoptotic cell and apoptotic related-gene in atherosclerotic plaques of apoE gene deficiency mice
Wu, Y.; Wang, Lü-ya.; Zhang, H-xin.; Chen, D.; Wang, W.; Xiao, L.; Fang, W.; Wang, F.; Shang, J-feng.
Zhonghua Xin Xue Guan Bing Za Zhi 35(6): 567-570
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0253-3758 PMID: 17711723 Document Number: 605925
Objective To investigate the antiatherosclerosis effect and related mechanisms of total flavone of radix puerariae (TFRP) on atherosclerotic plaques in apoE gene deficency (apoE -/-) mice. Methods apoE -/- mice were treated with saline, TFRP 15 mg . kg(-1). d(-1) or TFRP 85 mg . kg(-1) . d(-1) ( n = 8 each group) respectively per gavage for 12 weeks. The apoptotic cells in atherosclerotic plaques were then detected by TUNEL analysis, transmission electron microscope ( TEM). The expression of CD-68, SMA and Caspase-3 were determined by immunochemical methods. Results Early macrophagocyte apoptosis signs were observed under TEM, TUNEL-positive and CD-68 positive cells were found in lipid cores of atherosclerotic plaques. TFRP significantly reduced the number of apoptotic cells in a dose-dependent manner [ (0.38 +/- 0.17) %, (1.95 +/- 1.02) %, (10.50 +/- 5.89) %, respectively, P < 0.01] in atherosclerotic plaques. TFRP treatment also significantly reduced the immune expression of Caspase-3 protein in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion TFRP significantly attenuated the development of advanced atherosclerotic plaques in a dose-dependent manner which might related to down-regulated expression of Caspase-3 protein and reduced macrophagocyte apoptotic cells in atherosclerotic plaques post TFRP treatment.