Abstract
Objectives : Radix Angelicae Gigantis(RAG) and Resina Ferulae(RF) have been used in oriental medicine or folk medicine to increase stamina. The aim of this study was the characterization of the mechanism of action of RAG and RF on smooth muscle and macrophages in rats to find new substances for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, cardiovascular diseases and immune dysfunction. Methods : We investigated the effects of the water extracts of RAG and RF on phenylephrine or KCl-contracted rat endothelium-denuded aorta, the production of NO in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) and the production of NO and induction of iNOS in the $IFN-{\gamma}-primed$ RAW 264.7 cells. Results : The water extracts of the RAG and RF showed significant concentration-dependent relaxation effects on phenylephrine or KCl-contracted rat endothelium-denuded aorta. It also reduced the tension of the rat endothelium denuded aorta which was contracted in $Ca^{2+}-free$ media. On the other hand, it increased production of NO in VSMC which was stimulated with $IL-{\beta}$ or $IL-{\beta}$ plus $IFN-{\gamma}$. The water extracts of RAG and RF increased production of NO and induction of iNOS in the $IFN-{\gamma}-primed$ RAW 264.7 cells. Conclusions : According to the above results, the water extracts of RAG and RF relaxed the smooth muscle effectively and increased the production of NO in VSMC and macrophages. So, these herbs can be applied to erectile dysfunction, hypertension, angina pectoris, artherosclerosis and a defense defect for virus or microbe.
