Abstract
Objective : The purpose of this study is to observe the effect of Aqua-acupuncture with Stephania Tetrandra Solution (ST-AS) on arthritis. Methods : The author performde several experimental items : that isgene expression and secretion of IL-$1{\beta}$, IL-6, TNF-${\alpha}$, MMP-2, production of ROS, paw thickness, DTH, weight of spleen, expression of CD4+, CD8+, CD19+ in the spleen, production of IL-6, TNF-${\alpha}$, examination of histology. Results : The obstain results are summarized as follows. 1. IL-$1{\beta}$, IL-6, TNF-${\alpha}$ gene expression of hFLS were significantly inhibited in treatmentgroup, and gene expression of MMP-2 was not inhibited in treatmentgroup. 2. The secretion amount of IL-$1{\beta}$, IL-6, TNF-${\alpha}$ were significantly inhibited in treatmentgroup. 3. Expression of P-38 MAP kinase and production of ROS were inhibited in treatmentgroup. 4. Treatmentgroup were significantly inhibited the incidence of arthritis, hind paw edema, the index of arthritis and DTH of CIA (collagen II-induced arthritis) mice. 5. Treatmentgroup were significantly decreased splenetic weight and the number of CD4+, CD8+, CD19+ activated cells and secretion aroout of IL-6, TNF-${\alpha}$ of CIA (collagen II-induced arthritis) mice.. 6. Treatmentgroup were expressed form of new bone, synoviumin, new margine in histology imperison to controlgroup. Conclusions : Taking all these observations into account, ST-AS injection is considered to be effective in treating arthritis and put to practical use in future arthritis clinic.