Effect of resveratrol on the proliferation of cultured vascular smooth muscle cells

Objectives To observe the effects of resveratrol (Res) on the proliferation of cultured rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in vitro,DNA synthesis and apoptosis,and to explore their mechanism.MethodsPrimary culture of VSMCs from aortas of rats was established and Res at different concentrations was added to the medium.The number of VSMCs was counted and the growth curve of cells was recorded. The activity of VSMC was assessed using MTT method and inhibitory rate was calculated too. DNA synthesis was evaluated by [ 3H]-TdR method and cell apoptosis was examined by DNA laddering,HE stain and flow cytometry.Results Compared with the control group, the number of VSMC decreased,the cell proliferation was inhibited, the rate of [ 3H]-TdR incorporation declined and cell apoptosis increased in Res groups.These changes presented a dose-dependent manner.Conclusions Res has inhibitory effect on the proliferation of VSMC in vitro,which may result from inhibition of DNA synthesis and accelerating apoptosis.