The Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Echinops cephalots L. on Expression of Inflammatory Factors in Chondrocytes and THP-1 Cells as a Model of Monocyte/Macrophage and Human Cartilage Cells in Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the main causes of physical disability worldwide. Considering the complications of common treatments of OA, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, establishment of new treatments is crucial.
This study aimed to explore the effect of Echinops cephalotes extract on the main inflammatory biomarkers in OA.
Hydroalcoholic extract of Echinops cephalotes, Ibuprofen and betamethasone were prepared to investigate their effects on inflammatory biomarkers. Human monocyte/macrophage (THP-1) cells and chondrocytes cells were used as a model of monocyte/macrophage and human cartilage cells in osteoarthritis. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce production of inflammatory cytokines in both cells. After RNA extraction and production of cDNA, RT_PCR & PCR were done. Then Real Time-PCR was used to investigate the amount of expression of proinflammatory genes.
Echinops cephalotes extract reduced mRNA expression level of proinflammatory cytokines in the cells induced by LPS. Moreover, production of PGE2 and NO in in the LPS-induced THP-1 cells was reduced by this extract. Ibuprofen and betamethasone were more effective in reducing above inflammatory agents than the extract.
Echinops cephalotes extract can be used as a supplementary treatment option in osteoarthritis to reduce NSAIDs and corticosteroids dose in treatment of this disease.