Effects of matrine on mouse splenocyte proliferation and release of interleukin-1 and -6 from peritoneal macrophages in vitro

AIM: To investigate the mechanisms of antiinflammatory effect of matrine (Mat), its effects on mouse splenocyte proliferation, and release of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) from mouse peritoneal macrophages. METHODS: Splenocyte proliferation was assayed by [H-3]TdR incorporation. IL-1 and IL-6 activities were measured by thymocyte proliferation assay and B-9 cell proliferation MTT colorimetric method, respectively. RESULTS: Mat (125 - 500 mg . L(-1)) obviously inhibited concanavalin A (Con A, 5 mg . L(-1))- and lipopolysaccarides (LPS, 10 mg . L(-1))-induced splenocyte proliferation and LPS-induced release of IL-1 and IL-6 from mouse peritoneal macrophages. CONCLUSION: Mat inhibited splenocyte proliferation and release of IL-1 and IL-6 in vitro.