Baihu Guizhi decoction alleviates inflammation in rats with acute gouty arthritis by targeting miR-17–5p to regulate the TLR4/Myd88/NF-κB signaling pathway

Abstract

Objective  To explore the effects of Baihu Guizhi decoction on the degree of joint swelling and levels od inflammatory cytokines in rats with Acute Gouty Arthritis (AGA).

Method  AGA was induced by injecting sodium urate crystal solution into the ankles of rats. After the successful preparation of the model, Baihu Guizhi's decoction was given. Ankle swelling index, joint dysfunction index, and inflammation index were measured. The rats were euthanized and the synovial tissue of the knee joint was collected. Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB) in the synovium was detected by immunohistochemical method. Meanwhile, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels were detected by ELISA in the abdominal aorta. TLR4 and MyD88 were measured by RT-qPCR and Western blotting in the synovial tissue.

Results  In AGA rats, the diameter of the right ankle joint and levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in joint soft tissues were increased. Baihu Guizhi decoction decreased ankle swelling index, relieved inflammation, and reduced TLR4 and MyD88 expression, while these effects could be further enhanced by miR-17–5p-mimics. NF-κB expression in the synovium was reduced by Baihu Guizhi decoction, especially by Baihu Guizhi decoction + miR-17–5p-mimics.

Conclusions  Baihu Guizhi decoction can alleviate the joint inflammation of AGA rats by targeting miR-17–5p to regulate the TLR4/Myd88/NF-κB signaling pathway and reduce inflammatory responses.