Abstract

Purpose: To explore the mechanism with which Yiqi Huoxue Huatan formula regulates inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: COPD rat models (n=60) were procured and administered with prednisone and Yiqi Huoxue Huatan formula. Histological examination of lung tissues was carried out and bronchoalveolar fluid was collected for further analysis. In addition, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to evaluate the expression of different genes and proteins. The study also assessed pulmonary functions in each rat. Results: The results showed that Yiqi Huoxue Huatan formula relieved the lung inflammation and helped to preserve alveolar structure, and its anti-inflammatory efficacy was superior to prednisone. Moreover, it significantly improved pulmonary function in COPD rats. This formula was shown to repress the activity of both PI3K/AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways. Conclusion: Yiqi Huoxue Huatan formula may be effective in treating COPD by attenuating local inflammation and improving pulmonary function.