Rumex acetosa modulates platelet function and inhibits thrombus formation in rats

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Cardiovascular Science
• Phytochemistry and Natural Products

Background:

• Rumex acetosa (R. acetosa) possesses traditional uses in medicine, food, and phytotherapeutics across Asia and globally.
• The cardiovascular effects and specific antiplatelet mechanisms of R. acetosa remained largely uncharacterized.
• This study aimed to elucidate the antiplatelet properties and underlying molecular mechanisms of R. acetosa extract.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antiplatelet activity of R. acetosa extract.
• To determine the molecular pathways involved in R. acetosa-mediated platelet inhibition.

Main Methods:

• Platelet aggregation and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) release were measured using light transmission aggregometry and luminometry, respectively.
• Intracellular calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) was assessed using Fura-2/AM.
• Integrin αIIbβ3 activation, clot retraction, and specific signaling pathways (MAPK, PI3K/Akt, Src family kinases) were analyzed via flow cytometry and western blotting.

Main Results:

• R. acetosa extract dose-dependently inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation and ATP release.
• The extract suppressed [Ca2+]i mobilization, integrin αIIbβ3 activation, and clot retraction.
• Key signaling pathways, including MAPK (ERK1/2, JNK), MKK4, PI3K/Akt, and Src family kinases, were significantly attenuated.

Conclusions:

• R. acetosa extract exhibits potent anti-platelet effects.
• The extract modulates MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, alongside integrin αIIbβ3-mediated signaling.
• These findings suggest R. acetosa may offer protection against platelet-related cardiovascular diseases.