The Effect Of Astragalus Membranaceus In The Process Of Airway Remodeling In Sensitized Rats

Objective: To explore the effect of astragalus membranaceus in the process of airway remodeling in sensitized rats by the analysis of the expression of collagen Ⅲ,fibronectin,TGF-pl, endothelin-1 in airway wall. Methods: 24 wistar rats were randomly divided into control group, sensitized group and therapy group. Sensitized group and therapy group were sensitized by intraperitoneal injection with ovalbumin(OA) and exposed to aerosolized OA two weeks later to be challenged. Therapy group were intraperitoneally injected with astragalus membranaceus injection by 5g/kg thirty minutes prior to OA exposure. Control group were injected with saline and exposed to aerosolized saline two weeks later. The expression of collagen Ⅲ,fibronectin,TGF-pl protein, endothelin-1 protein were detected with immunohistochemical ABC and image analysis methods. The expression of TGF- β1 mRNA was detected with in situ hybridization. Results: (1) The expression of collagen Ⅲ,fibronectin,TGF-pl protein, TGF-±1mRNA and endothelin-1 protein in sensitized rats (29.49±1.89, 25.98±1.53, 26.99±2.90, 24.91±2.88, 37.54±2.78) were greater than thoseof control group (16.53±1.20,9.37±1.11,12.02±1.52,5.45±1.18, 15.77±1.47)and therapy group (21.24±1.38, 19.57±1.24, 19.89±2.06, 12.33±1.34, 18.48±1.62).Conclusion: Early treatment with astragalus membranaceus partly reduces the expression of TGF-β1 protein,TGF-β1 mRNA and endothelin-1 protein, inhibits the proliferation of collagen Ⅲ ,fibronectin induced by OA exposure ,and probably prevents the process of airway remodeling in asthma.