Biochanin A inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Aim: Biochanin A, an isoflavone isolated from red clover, cabbage or alfalfa, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory activity. However, the effects of biochanin A on vascular inflammation have not been investigated. In this study, we investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of biochanin A on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC cells). Main methods: The HUVEC cells were treated with biochanin A for 12 h before exposure to LPS. The expression of ECAMs, including VCAM-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin, NF-kappa B and PPAR-gamma was detected byWestern blotting. The expression of cytokines TNF-alpha and IL-8 was detected by ELISA. Key findings: The results showed that biochanin A inhibited LPS-induced TNF-alpha and IL-8 production. Meanwhile, biochanin A also suppressed VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and E-selectin expression induced by LPS. We also found that biochanin A inhibited NF-kappa B activation induced by LPS. Furthermore, biochanin A could activate PPAR-gamma and the anti-inflammatory effects of biochanin A can be reversed by GW9662, a specific antagonist for PPAR-gamma. Significance: In conclusion, the anti-inflammatory effect of biochanin A is associated with activating PPAR-gamma, thereby attenuating NF-kappa B activation and LPS-induced inflammatory response. These findings suggest that biochanin A may be a therapeutic agent for inflammatory cardiovascular disease. (C) 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.