Effects of TGFβ1 and extracts from Cervus korean TEMMINCK var. mantchuricus Swinhoe on acute and chronic arthritis in rats

Aim of the Study: To elucidate the pharmacological activities of deer antler acupuncture and TGF1 on the acute and chronic phases of rheumatoid arthritis diseases. Materials and Methods: Polyarthritis rats were administered with TGF1 and water extract of deer antler acupunture (DAA), prepared from the pilose antler of Cervus korean TEMMINCK var. mantchuricus Swinhoe. TGF (0.1 to 2 g/animal) and DAA (5-100 g/kg animal) were initiated 1 day before an arthritogenic dose of streptococcal cell wall fragments to see the effects on the joint swelling and distortion during the acute phase and the chronic phase of the disease. Arthritic index suppression of rat arthritis model was examined by TGF and DAA administrations. Results: TGF1 and DAA diminished the polyarthritis development in rats. TGF and DAA eliminated the joint swelling and distortion observed during the acute phase and the chronic phase of the disease. The TGF and DAA suppressed the arthritis progress when administration was begun after acute phase of arthritis. Discussion: Consistent with the inhibition of inflammatory cell recruitment into the synovium, TGF1 and DAA reversed the leukocytosis associated with the chronic phase of the arthritis, respectively.