Potential effects of xanthone on inflammation status in atherosclerotic rats

Aim: To clarify an effect of xanthones on inflammation status in hypercholesterolemic rats. Method: A total of 32 Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n=8), including control, hypercholesterolemic diet groups, hypercholesterolemic diet + xanthone at dose 35; 70; and 140 mg/kg body weight (mg/kgBW). Control group received standard diet for 60 days. Hypercholesterolemic diet group received standard diet plus yellow egg, sheep oil, cholic acid, and pig oil for 60 days per oral. Analysis of nuclear factor-kappa beta p65/p50 distribution and tumor necrosis factor-alpha level, was done using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay technique. Analysis of nitric oxide level was done by colorimetric technique using spectrophotometer. Results: Hypercholesterolemic diet significantly increased nuclear factor-kappa beta p65/p50 distribution, tumor necrosis factor-alpha level, and nitric oxide level compared with the control group (p<0.05). Xanthone decreased nuclear factor-kappa beta p65/p50 distribution in line with the distribution at standard diet at doses 70 and 140 mg/kg body weight. Xanthone significantly decreased tumor necrosis factor-alpha level compared with atherosclerotic diet group at all doses, although it did not reach the level at standard diet. Xanthone decreased nitric oxide level, reaching the level at standard diet in all doses. Conclusion: Xanthone has antiinflammatory potentials by inhibiting distribution of nuclear factor-kappa beta p65/p50, decreasing tumor necrosis factor-alpha and nitric oxide level. [J Intercult Ethnopharmacol 2013; 2(1.000): 53-56]