Effect of Agkistroden blomhoffi (mamushi) on the proliferation of human fibroblasts

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of Agkistroden blomhoffi (mamushi) aqueous extract on human patellar tendon cells in vitro, to pharmacologically explain the natural medicineʹs healing effect on tendon, bone and muscle injuries. Design and methods: Human patellar tendon fibroblasts (HPTF) were incubated in media containing different concentrations of mamushi aqueous extract. Cell proliferation was studied by microscopic observations and total protein, actin, collagen I, and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox 2) expressions. Results: Mamushi aqueous extract enhanced HPTF proliferation when its concentration was lower than 333 μg/ml. Cells cultured in manushi-containing medium showed developed intercellular structure and increased protein production. However, mamushi extract higher than 500 μg/ml oppressed cell growth. At 667 μg/ml, mamushi induced Cox 2 production, a sign of cytotoxicity. Conclusion:A. blomhoffi aqueous extract was found to directly stimulate the proliferation and protein production, particularly collagen I synthesis, of HPTF in a dose-dependent manner.