2-methoxycinnamaldehyde reduces IL-1β-induced prostaglandin production in rat cerebral endothelial cells

Prostaglandin E-2 (PGE(2)) works as a common final mediator of the febrile. Guizhi-Tang, one of the most famous traditional Chinese medical formula used to treat influenza, common cold and other pyretic conditions, was previously reported to reduce the production of PGE(2) in rats. 2-Methoxycinnamaldehyde is a principle compound isolated from Guizhi-Tang. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of 2-methoxycinnamaldehyde on PGE(2) production of rat cerebral endothelial cells (CECs). 2-Methoxycinnamaldehyde dose-dependently inhibited interleukin (IL)-1 beta-induced PGE(2) production in CECs with IC50 values of 174 mu m. IL-1 beta stimulation increased the protein, activity and mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 but not COX-1. 2-Methoxycinnamaldehyde reduced IL-1 beta-induced protein and activity of COX-2, but did not influence the COX-2 mRNA expression. Our results show that prostaglandin production in CECs during stimulated conditions is sensitive to inhibition by 2-methoxycinnamaldehyde and suggest that 2-methoxycinnamaldehyde may reduce COX-2 protein level and activity but not COX-2 mRNA.