Effects of artesunate on cell proliferation,collaging generating and KLF6 expression in hepatic stellate cells

Objective:To explore the effect of artesunate on the proliferation of LX-2 cell and to understand the initiatory anti-fibrogenic mechanisms of artesunate. Methods:Hepatic stellate cells(HSCs) LX-2 were divided into control group and artesunate groups with different concentrations. The inhibition of cell proliferation was determined by MTT colorimetric assay. The content of LDH was determined by using colorimetric method while the content of hydroxyproline(Hyp) was determined by colorimetric method. The Western blotting was used for the detection of the expression of KLF-6 protein in HSCs LX-2. Results:The artesunate had an inhibition effect on cell proliferation(P0.01) with dose and time-effect relationships;the activity of LDH in supernatant had no statistical significance compared with control group(P0.05). The content of Hyp was gradually decreased compared with control group(P0.01) with dose-effect relationship. The expression of KLF6 protein was decreased(P0.01) in dose-dependent manner. Conclusion:Artesunate could markedly inhibit the proliferation of HSCs LX-2;The mechanism may be associated with suppressing the expression of collagen and thus decreasing the expression of KLF6 protein.