Aqueous Extract of Kan-Lu-Hsiao-Tu-Tan Ameliorates Collagen-Induced Arthritis in Mice by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Responses.

BACKGROUND

Kan-Lu-Hsiao-Tu-Tan (KLHTT) exhibits anti-psoriatic effects through anti-inflammatory activity in mice. However, the therapeutic effects of KLHTT on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), another significant autoimmune inflammatory disorder, have not been elucidated. Herein, we explored the anti-arthritic effects of KLHTT on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice.

METHODS

KLHTT was extracted by boiling water and subjected to spectroscopic analysis. Chicken collagen type II (CII) with complete Freund's adjuvant was intradermally injected to induce CIA in DBA/1J mice. Anti-CII antibody, cytokines, malondialdehyde (MDA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were measured using ELISA, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and a hydrogen peroxide assay kit. Splenocyte proliferation was tested using thymidine incorporation. Th1 and Th17 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Oral KLHTT treatment (50 and 100 mg/kg) ameliorated mouse CIA by decreasing the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and tumour necrosis factor-α in the paw homogenates and serum. KLHTT also suppressed anti-CII antibody formation, splenocyte proliferation, and splenic Th1 and Th17 cell numbers. Additionally, KLHTT showed antioxidant activity by reducing the concentrations of MDA and H2O2 in paw tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

The therapeutic effects of KLHTT in CIA mice were through regulating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Our results suggest that KLHTT has potential to treat RA.