[Effect of maixinkang capsule on Ca2+ and mitochondrial membrane potential in liver cells of ApoE(-/-) mice].

Objective: To observe the effect of Maixinkang Capsule (MXK) on Ca2t concentration and mitochondrial membrane potential in liver cells of ApoE(-/-) mice.

Methods: Liver cells from ApoE(-/-) mice were separated using collagenase digestive method. After the primary cells were cultured for 8 days in vitro, the concentration of 10% MXK contained rat's serum was added into the culture fluid. The Ca2+ concentration and mitochondrial membrane potential in liver cells after 48-hr culture were measured by confocal laser scanning microscopy with Flou-3 and Jc-1 as probes.

Results: MXK could decrease Ca2+ concentration in liver cells, which was significantly different to that in the control group (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, MXK could significantly improve mitochondrial membrane potential in liver cells (P < 0.01). There was no obvious dose-effect relationship shown in both effects of MXK.

Conclusion: MXK can decrease Ca2+ concentration and improve the mitochondrial membrane potential in liver cells of ApoE(-/-) mice so as to regulate the lipids and prevent the occurrence and development of hyperlipemia and atherosclerosis.