Astragaloside IV Attenuated 3,4-Benzopyrene-Induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm by Ameliorating Macrophage-Mediated...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a serious condition driven by inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Macrophage infiltration plays a key role in AAA pathogenesis.
• Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the protective effects of AS-IV against AAA formation induced by 3,4-benzopyrene (Bap) and angiotensin II (Ang II).
• To explore the underlying mechanisms of AS-IV's action in AAA.
• To evaluate AS-IV as a potential therapeutic agent for AAA.

Main Methods:

• AAA was induced in a model using Bap and Ang II.
• The effects of AS-IV on AAA formation, macrophage infiltration, and matrix metalloproteinase expression were assessed.
• Activation of NF-κB, oxidative stress markers, and the PI3-K/AKT pathway were analyzed.
• In vitro studies utilized RAW264.7 macrophage cells.

Main Results:

• AS-IV significantly reduced AAA formation and decreased macrophage infiltration and matrix metalloproteinase expression.
• AS-IV inhibited Bap/Ang II-induced NF-κB activation and oxidative stress.
• In vitro, AS-IV suppressed macrophage activation by inhibiting oxidative stress and NF-κB via the PI3-K/AKT pathway.

Conclusions:

• AS-IV demonstrates protective effects against AAA, primarily through suppressing inflammation in the aortic wall.
• AS-IV effectively abrogates NF-κB activation and oxidative stress induced by Bap/Ang II.
• AS-IV's mechanism involves inhibiting macrophage activation via the PI3-K/AKT pathway, suggesting its potential as a preventive agent for smoking-related AAA.