Experimentmental study on Inhibition of ambroxol in airway remodeling of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease rat models

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the effect of ambroxol on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) rat models and study the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in the lung tissue of COPD. Methods COPD rat model was established by intratracheal instillation of lipopolysaccharide and cigarette smoking inhalation. The drug intervention group received daily inhalation of ambroxol since the first day. Pathologic study of the airway and lung tissue and blood gas analysis were performed. The levels of hydroxyproline in bronchi and lung homogenates were determined. The thickness of the small bronchial wall and the internal perimeter were measured. Also the gene relative content of TGF-β1 in the lung were determined. Results As compared to control group, the hydroxyproline level and the thickness of the bronchial wall of model group were significantly increased, the relative contents for TGF-β1 in the bronchi and lung of the model group were significantly higher. The changes in histopathology and blood gas, the relative contents for TGF-β1, the hydroxyprolive level and the thickness of the bronchial wall of ambroxol prevention group were significantly lower than those of model group. Conclusions The increased expression of TGF-β1 in COPD rat suggested of its role of remodeling in the airway wall. Inhalation of ambroxol inhibits airway wall remodeling on COPD model. Key words: Transforming growth factor-β1; Airway remodeling; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Animal model