Physcion, a tetra-substituted 9,10-anthraquinone, prevents homocysteine-induced endothelial dysfunction by activating Ca- and Akt-eNOS-NO signaling pathways.

Background: Homocysteine (Hcy) induced vascular endothelial dysfunction is known to be closely associated with oxidative stress and impaired NO system. 1,8-Dihydroxy-3-methoxy-6-methylanthracene-9,10-dione (physcion) has been known to has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to define the protective effect of physcion on Hcy-induced endothelial dysfunction and its mechanisms involved.