WuFu decoction alleviates osteoarthritis by regulating TGF-β1/Smad and ERK1/2 pathways

The age-standardized point prevalence of global osteoarthritis (OA) has increased, and OA will not only lead to disability in patients but also to a greater psychological burden. In recent years, the focus of scientists on treating OA has turned to disease prevention and treatment of early OA. Previous studies have proved that WuFu Decoction (WFD) could protect chondrocytes, and the Chinese herbs in this prescription have shown anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we built the OA rat model by the modified Hulth method, conducted research with WFD, and set D-Glucosamine sulfate as the positive control. It is proven that WFD improved the micromorphology and tissue damage of the knee joint, decreased the score of the Mankin and OARSI system, and inhibited the IL-1β, TNF-α, MMP-13, and CTX-1 levels in serum. Additionally, WFD treatment inhibited p-ERK1/2 levels and raised the mRNA and protein levels of TGF-β1, p-Smad2, p-Smad3, type II collagen (the gene is COL2A1), ALP, TRACP, and BMP7. Furthermore, TGF-β1 inhibitor (Decorin) reversed the improvement effect of WFD on OA, but ERK1/2 inhibitor (PD98059) promoted this improvement effect. Silencing TGFβR2 can reverse the protective effect of WFD on primary chondrocytes. It is suggested that WFD can improve OA and chondrocytes by regulating the TGF-β1/Smad and ERK1/2 pathways. This study also identified active ingredients, such as Fumaric acid, Glycyrrhizic acid, Albiflorin, and Isoliquiritigenin. It provides a basis for the clinical application of WFD and for the promotion and development of TCM.