Effects of Tongxinluo on myocardial fibrosis in diabetic rats

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to explore the effect of Tongxinluo on myocardial fibrosis in diabetic rats and its possible mechanism of action. METHODS: Diabetic rat models were established and then divided into three groups: control, diabetes, and Tongxinluo groups. Heart function and myocardial interstitial collagen volume fraction were investigated, and the protein and mRNA expression levels of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), Smad3, and Smad7 were measured. RESULTS: Heart function was clearly abnormal in the diabetes group compared with that in the control group, and the collagen volume fraction and mRNA expression levels of TGF-β1 and Smad3 were higher. However, the protein and mRNA expression levels of Smad7 were lower. In the Tongxinluo group, it was observed that these indicators were improved. CONCLUSION: Tongxinluo was effective for the prevention and treatment of myocardial fibrosis in diabetic rats. It probably mediates the expressions of TGF-β1, Smad3, and Smad7 in rat cardiomyocytes to reduce the occurrence of myocardial fibrosis in diabetic rats.