Effects of Liriope Platyphylla on LPS-stimulated Expression of COX-2 and iNOS in Mouse BV2 Microglial Cells

Objective: In this study, the effects of Liriope Platyphylla against LPS-induced inflammation was investigated. Methods: Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay. To identify expressions of COX-2 and iNOS mRNA, RT-PCR was performed. Assessment of PGE2 synthesis was performed using the PGE2 immunoassay. Measurement of NO synthesis was performed using the NO detection. Result : The MTT assay revealed that Liriope Platyphylla exerted no significant cytotoxicity in the microglial BV2 cells. RT-PCR analysis revealed that the mRNA levels of COX-2 and iNOS were significantly decreased in the LPS- and 5 mg/ml Liriope Platyphylla treated group. From the PGE2 immunoassay and NO detection, PGE2 and NO synthesis was significantly suppressed in the LPS- and 5 mg/ml Liriope Platyphylla treated group. Conclusion : In these study, Liriope Platyphylla was shown to suppress PGE2 and NO production by inhibiting LPS-stimulated enhancement of COX-2 enzyme activity and iNOS expression. It is very possible that Liriope Platyphylla can offer a valuable mode of therapy for the treatment of brain inflammatory diseases.