RESUMO
Objective To explore the molecular and cell signal transduction mechanism of Astragalus mongholicus polysaccharides (ASP) on macrophage. Methods After stimulating RAW264.7, the change in value of NF-κB was determined by Western blot. The induction of NO and secretion of TNF-α by ASP in macrophage was observed with or without inhibitor of NF-κB using Griess method. Moreover, protein levels of TNF-α secreted by macrophage were investigated with ELISA in respond to ASP. Results 4 h after stimulation by 100 μg/ml ASP, the concentration of NF-κB in nucleus increased significantly, peaked at 6 h. 16 h after stimulation by 100 μg/ml ASP, the activity of iNOS[(23.54±2.41) U/mg protein; P<0.01], producton of NO [(18.9±1.5)μmol/L, P<0.01] and level of TNF-α[(81.2±16.7)pg/ml, P<0.0l] in macrophage were improved markedly. Blocking NF-κB with inhibitor results in decreased levels of NO and TNF-α. Conclusion The results suggest that NF-κB play an important role in induction of NO and TNF-α by ASP in macrophage.