Effects of total saponins of Schizocapsa plantaginea Hance on hepatic fibrosis in rats and its mechanism / 中国药理学通报

ABSTRACT

Aim To study the effect of total saponins of Schizocapsa plantaginea Hance ( SFSP) on hepatic fibrosis in rats induced by CC14 and to investigate the molecular mechanisms of these effects. Methods 5 SD rats were randomly divided into five groups Normal control group, model group, colchicine (Col) as positive control group, low-dose SFSP group (SFSP-L), and high-dose SFSP group ( SFSP-H ). After four weeks of continuous administration, serum AST, ALT and hydroxyproline (Hyp) were measured by biochemical detection method. The four indicators of liver fibrosis ( CIV, PC HJ , LN, HA) in serum were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The location of liver fibrous tissues was observed by Masson staining. Liver sections were stained with HE, and observed for pathologic changes. Liver ultrastructural changes were observed using a transmission electron microscope. The expressions of mRNA of α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA) , transforming growth factor pi (TGF-β1) , Smad4 and Smad7 in liver were detected by qPCR. Results In the liver fibrosis model group, the contents of AST, ALT and CIV, PCI, LN, HA, Hyp reflecting liver injury and fibrosis significantly increased ( P < 0. 05 ) , while in SFSP-H group and Col group the contents of the above indicators were significantly reduced, and the pathological results of liver tissues were consistent with it. SFSP significantly inhibited the expression of TGF-β1, Smad4 and α-SMA mR-NA ( P < 0. 01 ) , and increased the expression of Smad7 as well (P < 0. 01). Conclusion SFSP has an antifibrogenic effect through down-regulating the TGF-(β1/Smad signaling pathway in rats.