RESUMEN
AIM To investigate the effects of imperatorin and isoimperatorin on the expression of mouse liver cytochrome P450s and hepatic toxicity in mice.METHODS C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into control and administration groups,which were treated with imperatorin or isoimperatorin by intragastric administration for two weeks.The effects of two compounds on mRNA expressions of major P450s isoforms were analyzed by RT-PCR.The P450 expression was determined by Western blot.The serum levels of glutamicpyruvic transaminase (GPT),glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase (GOT) and blood total bilirubin (TBIL) were detected by kits.The change of liver tissue was observed with HE staining.RESULTS The Cyp1a2 mRNA expression was significantly induced by 40 mg/kg imperatorin as compared with the control group.For isoimperatorin,the Cyp2c37 mRNA expression was significantly induced.Western blot results showed that CYP1 A2 expression was significantly induced by imperatorin.For isoimperatorin,the CYP2C and CYP2E1 expressions were significantly induced.Blood biochemical indices showed that 40 mg/kg isoimperatorin led to increased serum GOT and TBIL levels.Pathological analysis showed that both compounds (at the doses of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg) could cause liver edema to a certain degree.CONCLUSION Imperatorin is the inducer of CYP1A2,while isoimperatorin is the inducer of CYP2C and CYP2E1.These two compounds (at the doses of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg) can lead to damage for mouse liver.The toxicity of isoimperatorin is stronger than that of imperatorin.
RESUMEN
The present study was designed to explore the influence of water extracts of Atractylodes lancea rhizomes on the toxicity and anti-inflammatory effects of triptolide (TP). A water extract was prepared from A. lancea rhizomes and co-administered with TP in C57BL/6 mice. The toxicity was assayed by determining serum biochemical parameters and visceral indexes and by liver histopathological analysis. The hepatic CYP3A expression levels were detected using Western blotting and RT-PCR methods. The data showed that the water extract of A. lancea rhizomes reduced triptolide-induced toxicity, probably by inducing the hepatic expression of CYP3A. The anti-inflammatory effects of TP were evaluated in mice using a xylene-induced ear edema test. By comparing ear edema inhibition rates, we found that the water extract could also increase the anti-inflammatory effects of TP. In conclusion, our results suggested that the water extract of A. lancea rhizomes, used in combination with TP, has a potential in reducing TP-induced toxicity and enhancing its anti-inflammatory effects.