RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the effect of Panax notoginseng saponin (PNS) on procoagulant activity (PCA) and differentiation induction in NB4 cells.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>After NB4 cells were treated with PNS, the recalcification time, PCA and TF-mRNA expression in NB4 cells were tested by RT-PCR. The inhibitory effect of PNS on NB4 cell proliferation was analysed by MTT method, NBT assay, cell morphological observation and flow cytometry.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>(1) PNS of all concentrations could significantly prolong the recalcification time and lower the PCA level in NB4 cells in time-concentration-dependent manner. Simultaneously it down-regulated the expression of TF-mRNA. (2) PNS could partially inhibit the NB4 cell proliferation. (3) PNS could raise the NBT reducing capability of NB4 cells (P < 0.05). And morphological examination showed the differentiating tendency of monocyte and macrophage.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>PNS could reduce the procoagulant activity and TF-mRNA expression in NB4 cells, and partially induce the differentiation of NB4 cells, therefore, it is hopeful to be a new anti-coagulant agent.</p>