Atractylodes japonica Suppresses Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Expressions of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase and Cyclooxygenase-2 in RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Abstract

Atractylodes japonica has traditionally been used for the treatment of pain and arthritis. The effect of Atractylodes japonica against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation was investigated using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), nitric oxide detection, and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) immunoassay in mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages. The aqueous extract of Atractylodes japonica suppressed nitric oxide production and PGE₂ synthesis by inhibition of the lipopolysaccharide-stimulated enhancement of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 mRNAs expressions in RAW 264.7 macrophages. These results suggest that Atractylodes japonica exerts anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects probably by suppression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 expressions.