Ameliorate Effects of Li-Fu Formula on IL-6-Mediated Cardiac Hypertrophy in Hamsters Fed with a Hyper-Cholesterol Diet
2011

Effects of Li-Fu Formula on Heart Health in Hamsters

Sample size: 24 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Cheng Yi-Chang, Wu Chieh-His, Kuo Wei-Wen, Lin James A., Wang Hsueh-Fang, Tsai Fuu-Jen, Tsai Chang-Hai, Huang Chih-Yang, Hsu Tsai-Ching, Tzang Bor-Show

Primary Institution: China Medical University, Taiwan

Hypothesis

This study intends to evaluate the effects of Li-Fu formula on cardiac hypertrophy induced by hypercholesterolemia diet.

Conclusion

The Li-Fu formula significantly reduces cardiac hypertrophy and related signaling in hamsters fed a high-cholesterol diet.

Supporting Evidence

  • The ratios of whole heart weight/body weight were significantly higher in the cholesterol group but significantly lower in the Li-Fu formula group.
  • Protein levels of atrial natriuretic peptide and brain natriuretic peptide were significantly increased in the cholesterol group but significantly reduced in the Li-Fu formula group.
  • Significantly increased interleukin-6 and related signaling molecules were detected in the cholesterol group but significantly reduced in the Li-Fu formula group.

Takeaway

Feeding hamsters a special mix of herbs called Li-Fu formula helps their hearts stay healthy even when they eat a lot of cholesterol.

Methodology

Twenty-four male Golden Syrian hamsters were divided into three groups and fed different diets for 2 months, followed by histopathological analysis and western blotting.

Participant Demographics

Male Golden Syrian hamsters, aged 8 weeks.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/ecam/neq066

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