Tetrandrine down-regulates ERK/NF-κB signaling and inhibits activation of mesangial cells

► This study used an IL-1β-provoked inflammation model in primary rat mesangial cells (PRMCs) to resemble glomerulonephritis. ► Tetrandrine had no significant effect on viability of PRMCs. ► Tetrandrine down-regulated ERK/NF-κB signaling and inhibited the expression of inflammatory mediators NO and MMP-9. ► Tetrandrine may play an important role in prevention of glomerulonephritis.