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Vasodilatory active principles of Sophora flavescens root
J Yamahara1, G Kobayashi, M Iwamoto
1Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Japan.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Flavanones vexibinol and kurarinone from Sophora flavescens roots inhibit contractions in rat and rabbit aorta. These compounds may block calcium channels, impacting vascular smooth muscle function.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Research
- Natural Products Chemistry
Background:
- Sophora flavescens is a traditional medicinal herb.
- Flavanones are a class of flavonoids with potential biological activities.
- Vascular smooth muscle contraction is regulated by calcium ion (Ca2+) influx.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of flavanones vexibinol and kurarinone on vascular smooth muscle.
- To determine the mechanism of action of these compounds on aorta contractions.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of vexibinol and kurarinone from Sophora flavescens ethyl acetate extract.
- Assessment of compound effects on isolated rabbit and rat thoracic aorta helical strips.
- Measurement of isometric tension to quantify contractions induced by KCl, norepinephrine, histamine, and serotonin.
Main Results:
- Vexibinol and kurarinone demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of KCl and norepinephrine-induced contractions in rat aorta.
- In rabbit aorta, these flavanones inhibited KCl-induced contractions but showed weak inhibition against histamine and serotonin.
- The differential effects suggest a potential mechanism involving voltage-dependent calcium channels.
Conclusions:
- Flavanones vexibinol and kurarinone possess vasodilatory properties.
- The results indicate that these flavanones may inhibit Ca2+ influx via voltage-dependent channels.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise molecular targets and therapeutic potential.