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[Effect of astraglus injection on serum apoptosis relevant factors in patients with chronic heart failure]

Jin-guo Zhang1, Na Yang, Hua He

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Hospital Affiliated to Jining Medical College, Shandong. jgzhang@183.ha.cn

Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi Jiehe Zazhi = Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine
|June 17, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Astragalus injection (AGI) effectively treats chronic heart failure (CHF) by reducing apoptosis-related factors. This traditional remedy improved heart function and lowered serum markers like soluble Fas (sFas) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha).

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology and Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Investigates the role of apoptosis in heart failure pathogenesis.

Background:

  • Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a complex condition often associated with increased apoptosis.
  • Apoptosis-related factors, including soluble Fas (sFas), soluble Fas ligand (sFasL), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), are implicated in CHF progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the therapeutic effect of Astragalus injection (AGI) on serum apoptosis-related factors in CHF patients.
  • To assess AGI's impact on heart function indices and NYHA classification in CHF.

Main Methods:

  • Eighty-four CHF patients (NYHA II-IV) were randomized into AGI treatment and control groups.
  • Serum levels of sFas, sFasL, and TNF-alpha were measured using ELISA.
  • Left ventricular function indices and NYHA classification were assessed before and after treatment.

Main Results:

  • AGI treatment significantly improved NYHA grades and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) while reducing LVESV and LVEDV compared to the control group.
  • Serum levels of sFas, sFasL, and TNF-alpha were significantly decreased in the AGI group post-treatment.
  • No significant changes in cardiac function or apoptosis markers were observed in the control group.

Conclusions:

  • Astragalus injection demonstrates efficacy in managing chronic heart failure.
  • AGI's therapeutic benefits are attributed to its ability to reduce elevated serum apoptosis-related factors.
  • AGI represents a promising treatment option for CHF patients.
Abstract

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