Abstract

The objective of the present study is to observe protective effects of Cordyceps sinensis extract on extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation and explore its therapeutic mechanism. The glomerular sclerosis model was established by unilateral nephrectomy and injecting adriamycin. Then urinary protein, BUN and Scr levels were measured. Renal pathological changes were observed by light microscopy. Immunohistochemistry technique was used to examine expressions of CTGF, FN, Col-IV, PAI-1, and MMP-2. Compared with model group, the urinary protein level in C. sinensis extract group was markedly decreased. BUN and Scr levels in C. sinensis extract group were much lower than model group, and also lower than Fosinopril sodium group. C. sinensis extract produced obviously therapeutic effects on glomerular sclerosis. Immunohistochemical results presented that expressions of CTGF, FN and Col-IV in C. sinensis extract and Fosinopril groups were less than model group. The expression of PAI-1 in C. sinensis extract group was also less than model group, but MMP-2 was more expressed than model group. Taken together, C. sinensis extract could ameliorate glomerular sclerosis by reducing proteinuria, decreasing the expressions of FN, Col-IV, CTGF and PAI-1, and increasing the expression of MMP-2, Thus, C. sinensis extract might be one novel therapeutic drug for chronic kidney diseases.

Key words: Cordyceps sinensis extract, extracellular matrix, glomerular sclerosis