A Preliminary Study in the Effect of Astragali radix, a Qi-Invigorating Herb, on Mitochondria: Insights at Cellular Level and Mouse Tissues Level

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the effects of Qi-invigorating herbs on mitochondrial function using cultured cells and animal organs. Methods: Using water extracts of Astragali radix, we investigated the effect of “Qi-invigoration” on M-1 renal cells and mouse organs in-vitro including total adenylate production (TAP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We also examined the effect on antioxidant capacity by conducting an analysis of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH). Results: 1) Astragali radix increased mitochondrial TAP generation and decreased ROS levels in both mouse kidney tissues and M-1 renal cells. 2) Astragali radix also significantly increased MMP and GSH levels in M-1 cells, but in the kidney tissue, there was no significant change in MMP levels and a decrease in GSH levels. 3) Astragali radix stimulated TAP levels in the heart, spleen, lung, kidney and skeletal muscle tissue, which was accompanied by the reduction of ROS. 4) For the meridian organs that Astragali radix belongs to, the energy production and antioxidant capacity were boosted simultaneously. Conclusions: These results provide new insights for the biochemical basis of Qi-invigoration and the meridian tropism theory for this Qi-invigorating herb.