[Effects of emodin on lung fibroblast proliferation and cell cycle in vitro].
OBJECTIVE
To gain a better understanding of the effect of emodin on lung fibroblast (LF) proliferation in vitro.


METHODS
The methods of cell cultured in vitro, 3H-TdR incorporation, flow cytometry and electron microscopy were used in research to compare LF proliferation, cell cycle and morphologic change of LF in vitro.


RESULTS
It was found that emodin reduced the proliferation of LF in vitro (P < 0.01), and such inhibitory effect was dose-dependent. Emodin delayed the progression of LF from G1 to S and G2 phase (P < 0.01). Also, electron microscopic examination demonstrated that the ultrastructure of LF in emodin group was not markedly worse as compared with that in the control group.


CONCLUSIONS
Emodin inhibits the proliferation of LF and delays the progression of LF cell cycle. Emodin at the dose of 100 micrograms/ml does not destroy the ultrastructure of LF cells. These findings may provide a theoretical basis for the endeavors to use emodin for preventing lung fibrosis diseases.
Department of Rehabilitation, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Yun
Y
Qu
Ping
P
Yao
Ting-qian
TQ
Li
D002453:Cell Cycle / Q000187:drug effects; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D003864:Depression, Chemical; D004642:Emodin / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005333:Fetus; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000166:cytology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005434:Flow Cytometry; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000166:cytology*; D011658:Pulmonary Fibrosis / Q000517:prevention & control
D004642:Emodin