Aster yomena suppresses LPS-induced cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression

Abstract

Inflammation is a pathological process that is known to be involved in numerous diseases. Microbial infection or tissue injury activates inflammatory responses, resulting in the induction of proinflammatory proteins including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Aster yomena is used in traditional Korean remedies to treat cough, asthma, and insect bites. Here, we investigated the effects of A. yomena extract (EAY) on the expression of COX-2 and iNOS induced by LPS. EAY inhibited NF-B activation and IB degradation induced by LPS. EAY suppressed LPS-induced COX-2 and iNOS expression which are the target genes regulated through NF-B activation in macrophages. EAY also suppressed LPS-induced nitrite production. These results suggest that EAY has the potential to be developed as a potent anti-inflammatory drug.