Inhibition of COX-2 gene expression via $NF-{\kappa}B$ pathway by Ichungwhan

이정환의 $NF-{\kappa}B$ 활성화 기전을 통한 COX-2 저해 기전

Objectives : The present study was undertaken to investigate the molecular mechanisms of Ichungwhan for inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) gene expression via suppression of NF-κB (nuclear factor κB) using aged rats. NF-κB is the most important modulator of inflammation and NF-κB regulates the gene expression of several pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as COX-2. Methods : In the experiment, we investigated the scavenging property of Ichungwhan on reactive species (RS) including nitrogen-derived species (RNS), measured by DCF-DA (2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorexcein diacetate) / DHR 123 (dihydrorhodamine 123) assay. Protein expression levels of COX-2, NF-κB, p-ERK and p-p38 were assayed by western blot. Results : We showed that Ichungwhan inhibits RS including RNS and inhibits NF-κB activation by blocking the dissociation of inhibitory IκB-β via suppression of IKK pathway. Also, Ichungwhan inhibits COX-2 gene expression. Conclusions : These findings suggest that Ichungwhan modulates COX-2 gene expression via suppression of the NF-κB pathway.