Effect of formononetin on protein expression of ASK1 and JNK in rats after unilateral ureteral obstruction / 中草药

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the effect of formononetin on the expression of ASK1 and JNK on the protein level in rat after unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). Methods Rats were then randomly divided into control group, model group, the enalapril group, and the high, medium, and low dose groups of formononetin (100, 50, and 25 mg/kg). Renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) rats model was established by unilateral ureteral obstruction except the control group. The rats were sacrificed 14 d after surgery, and blood samples were collected to detect serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. HE staining was used to observe renal pathologic change and determine renal tubular damage index. The area percentage of RIF was detected by Masson staining. Expressions of ASK1 and JNK protein in kidney were determined by Western blotting. Tubular epithelial cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. Results Serum Scr, BUN level, tubulointerstitial injury index, RIF, the expressions of ASK1 and JNK protein, and apoptotic index were significantly decreased in the treatment groups when compared with the model group (P < 0.05, 0.01). The high dose group of formononetin was more effective than enalapril group. Conclusion Formononetin inhibited the expressions of ASK1 and JNK protein in UUO rats model. Ultimately renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis was suppressed and the progression of obstructive nephropathy pathologic process was retarded.