Cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory effects of root bark extracts of Acanthopanax henryi.

Aim: To investigate the cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory activity, and action mechanism of root bark extracts of Acanthopanax henryi.

Method: The hot methanol extract of the root bark of A. henryi was subjected to XAD-4 column chromatography eluting with a gradient of methanol in water. The cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory effects of the MeOH fractions were evaluated on the inhibition on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6 production in RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Results: The 80% MeOH fraction was a better inhibitor of LPS-induced NO, PGE2, IL-1β, and IL-6 production, and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) at the protein levels in a concentration-dependent manner.

Conclusion: The 80% MeOH fraction of A. henryi root bark has significant anti-inflammatory activity. This provides a pharmacological basis for clinical application for the treatment of inflammation.