Effects of Wenxiao II Decoction on the expression of MCP-1 and VCAM-1 in atherosclerotic rabbits

ObjectiveTo observe the effects of different doses of Wenxiao II Decoction on the expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in an experimental model of atherosclerosis in rabbits and to explore the mechanism by which it alleviates atherosclerosis.MethodsSixty 3–4 month-old New Zealand rabbits of both sexes were randomly divided into six groups: simvastain; model; blank; and high-dose, mid-dose, and low-dose Wenxiao II Decoction groups. Except for those in the blank group, all rabbits were fed a high-cholesterol diet. Carotid atherosclerosis was established by balloon-induced injury to the endothelium of the carotid artery in conjunction with consumption of a high-cholesterol diet. After 8 weeks, all rabbits were killed to evaluate the expression of MCP-1 and VCAM-1 by immunohistochemical staining.ResultsExpressions of MCP-1 and VCAM-1 were significantly decreased in all groups except the blank group compared with the model group (P< 0.05). When compared with the simvastain group only variation of MCP-1 expression in low-dose group was not appreciable, and the differences were indistinct (P<0.05). When comparing among Wenxiao II Decoction groups, MCP-1 expression in the mid- and high-dose groups was significantly lower than that seen in the low-dose group (P< 0.01), but there were no differences among three dosage groups with respect to VCAM-1 expression (P>0.05).ConclusionThese data suggested that high, mid, and low doses of Wenxiao II Decoction can inhibit the expression of MCP-1 and VCAM-1, which may prevent the formation of or stabilize atherosclerotic plaques. There may be a direct relationship between the dosage of Wenxiao II Decoction and its therapeutic efficacy.