18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid의 항 감염성관절염효과

Effect of I8β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid on Septic Arthritis Caused by Candida albicans

A polymorphic fungus, Candida albicans, causes various forms of infections such as disseminated candidiasis and vaginitis. Recent reports indicate that the fungus is a main etiological agent for the arthritis. In search of new sources for treatment of the fungal arthritis, we examined 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA) against C. albicans-caused septic arthritis. The compound is isolated from Glycyrrhizae Radix that is known to have various immunomodulating activities and is one of the most popular herbal medicines. For induction of animal model of a septic arthritis, mice were given an emulsion form of C. albicans cell wall mixed with Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) via footpad-injection. To determine prophylactic and therapeutic effects, the component was given to the animals before or after the induction of the arthritis, respectively. Data showed that intraperitoneal administration of 18β-GA resulted in reduction of the inflammation, indicating the component had both prophylactic and therapeutic activities. For investigation of mechanism of the 18β-GA, inhibitory effects on NO (nitiric oxide) and on T-lymphocyte proliferation were determined. Results demonstrated that 18β-GA suppressed NO production from LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-treated macrophages and also inhibited proliferation of Con A (concanavalin A)- activated T-cells. Taken together, 18β-GA, a pentacyclic triterpene, has anti-arthritic activity against C. albicans-caused septic arthritis, possibly by blocking NO production and T-cell suppression.