Activation of the immunologic function of rat Kupffer cells by the polysaccharides of Angelica sinensis

AimTo observe the influence of polysaccharides of Angelica sinensis (ASP) on the immunologic function of rat Kupffer cells. MethodsNormal rat Kupffer cells were treated with ASP in vitro. Absorbance at 540 nm (A₅₄₀) of neutral red absorption and supernatant NO, TNF-α in the cells were measured to evaluate the immunologic function of Kupffer cells; LDH leakage was measured to estimate the severity of cellular damage; Rats were given ASP 0.025, 0.1, 0.25 and 1.0 g·kg^-1 ig (qd×7 d) in vivo. The above indices and ACP of Kupffer cells were measured, sGST and sALT activity were detected as indices of hepatotoxicity. ResultsASP markedly enhanced the phagocytic activity, ACP and supernatant NO, TNF-α of Kupffer cells both in vitro and in vivo. The increase of sGST was observed after administration of ASP 1.0 g·kg^-1, but the LDH leakage of the hepatocytes was not increased in vitro. ConclusionASP with suitable dose could activate the function of Kupffer cells. Slight liver injury was caused by ASP 1.0 g·kg^-1 in vivo, which was likely caused by factors, such as NO, TNF-α, indirectly.