Hydrophobic constituents of Polygonum multiflorum roots promote renal erythropoietin expression in healthy mice

AbstractThe roots ofPolygonum multiflorum Thunberg (Polygonaceae) are used as a crude drugKashu that is considered to improveblood deficiency based on a Kampo concept.Kashu has been included in Kampo formulas, such asTokiinshi, which is used to treat eczema and dermatitis with itchiness by inhibiting inflammation and facilitating blood circulation in the skin. However, the effects of P. multiflorum roots on erythropoiesis are unclear. Previously, we isolated six phenolic constituents from an ethyl acetate (EtOAc)-soluble fraction ofP. multiflorum root extract and identified them as (E)-2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O- β-D-glucopyranoside [(E)-THSG], emodin, emodin-8-O- β-D-glucopyranoside, physcion, physcion-8-O- β-D-glucopyranoside, and catechin. To examine whetherP. multiflorum roots facilitate erythropoiesis, the EtOAc-soluble fraction was orally administered to healthy ICR mice. When compared with mice fed a standard diet alone (Controls), the mice fed a diet including the EtOAc-soluble fraction exhibited significantly higher serum erythropoietin (Epo) levels. The renalEpo mRNA levels in EtOAc-soluble fraction-administered mice were significantly higher than those in the control mice. Then, we administered roxadustat, which is a drug to treat the patient suffering with renal anemia by specifically inhibiting hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylases. Roxadustat slightly increased renalEpo mRNA levels in healthy mice. Administration of (E)-THSG, a major constituent...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research