Research Article 
Modified Taohong Siwu Decoction Promotes Repair of Damaged Endometrium in a Rat Model of Intrauterine Adhesion
Hongping Niu, Na Liu, Caiyan Zhang, Yonghui Zhang, Xingxiu Zhan, Xingyan Li, Yanping Qian and Lijuan Jiang
International Journal of Pharmacology, 2024, 20(5), 794-805.
Abstract
Background and Objective: Modified Taohong Siwu Decoction (MTSD), a traditional Chinese medicine, consists of components that are known to enhance blood circulation and reduce fibrosis. In this study, the effects of MTSD on endometrial fibrosis and endometrial receptivity were investigated in a rat model of IUA and in Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-stimulated endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Materials and Methods: Female Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to a dual-injury model of IUA. Fibrotic characteristics were induced in ESCs by exogenous supplementation of TGF-β1. The effect of MTSD on endometrial fibrosis was assessed using histochemical methods. Real-time PCR, immunohistochemical labeling and western blotting were used to determine the relative expression of genes and proteins involved in the TGF-β1/Smad pathway and endometrial receptivity. Results: The MTSD treatment group had a significantly higher number of endometrial glands but less endometrial fibrosis than the IUA treatment group. In response to IUA, TGF-β1 and Smad3 expression were upregulated. Conversely, Smad7, integrin αvβ3 and Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) were downregulated. Following MTSD therapy, TGF-β1 and Smad3 levels were dramatically reduced, while Smad7, integrin αvβ3 and LIF levels were significantly elevated. The TGF-β1 induced Smad3 expression in ESCs but downregulated the Smad7, integrin αvβ3 and LIF expression. By promoting the expression of Smad7, integrin αvβ3 and LIF, MTSD administration inhibited the expression of Smad3 induced by TGF-β1. Conclusion: The MTSD plays a crucial role through the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway in the repair of injured endometrium after IUA.
ASCI-ID: 23-2030