Ecdysteroid-enriched fraction of Cyathula officinalis suppresses synovial proliferation and inflammation to ameliorate RA by inhibiting the AKT/PI3K/mTOR signaling pathway.

This study investigated the chemical compositions isolated from Cyathula officinalis (CES) and elucidated its anti-RA effects and potential mechanisms. In vitro results revealed that CES suppressed interleukin (IL)-1β-stimulated proliferation, migration, and invasion of MH7A cells in a concentration-dependent manner. In vivo results indicated that CES could reduce the arthritis score, paw swelling, and improve histopathological deterioration. The levels of inflammatory factors, matrix metalloproteinases, and proteins expressed in rat synovial tissue were suppressed after treatment with CES. These findings illustrate that CES is involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/SREBP1/SCD-1/GPX4 axis-mediated ferroptosis and anti-inflammation, exerting its protective effects against the progression of RA.