Planta Med 2009; 75(1): 7-11
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1088332
Pharmacology
Original Paper
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Paeonol Attenuates High-Fat-Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis in Rabbits by Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Houkai Li1 , 2 , Min Dai1 , Wei Jia2 , 3
  • 1Anhui College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P.R. China
  • 2School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
  • 3Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
Further Information

Publication History

Received: March 31, 2008 Revised: September 15, 2008

Accepted: September 17, 2008

Publication Date:
10 November 2008 (online)

Abstract

Cortex Moutan (Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews, Ranunculaceae) has several uses in traditional medicine, such as analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory applications and use in the prevention of thromboembolic diseases. Paeonol, a main active component in Cortex Moutan, possesses various pharmacological activities, particularly an anti-atherosclerosis effect. However, so far there have been no reports evaluating the anti-inflammatory action of paeonol in atherosclerosis therapy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of the therapeutic effect of paeonol on atherosclerotic rabbits with its anti-inflammatory action. The atherosclerotic model was developed in 24 rabbits fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. Twelve rabbits on the high-fat diet then were administered with paeonol (p.o) for a subsequent 6 weeks at the doses of 75 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg. Histological analysis showed significant improvement in atherosclerosis plaque in the paeonol groups. Moreover, the blood levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and CRP and the translocation of NF-κB to the nucleus were significantly suppressed in paeonol groups, as was the inhibition of lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the anti-inflammatory action of paeonol may contribute to its anti-atherosclerosis effect.

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Prof. Min Dai

Anhui College of Traditional Chinese Medicine

103 Meishan Road

Hefei

P.R. China

Phone: +86-551-516-9222

Fax: +86-551-516-9222

Email: daiminliao@163.com