PF2405, standardized fraction of Scutellaria baicalensis, ameliorates colitis in vitro and in vivo.

Standardized extraction procedures for herb are as important as their authentication to maintain their quality and ensure their safe use. We had prepared a standardized and purified Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi extract, PF2405, which was enriched with three major components, baicalein, oroxylin A and wogonin. In the present study, we investigated the potential anti-inflammatory effects of PF2405 in vitro and in two different experimental animal models of inflammatory bowel disease. Effect of PF2405 studied in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced HT-29 cells in vitro. In vivo experimental colitis models were induced by administration of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) or dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). PF2405 (50 μg/ml) decreased TNF-α-induced cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expressions through inhibition of phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinases and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in HT-29 cells. Combination of baicalein (20 μg/ml), oroxylin A (8 μg/ml), and wogonin (2 μg/ml) markedly inhibits TNF-α-induced COX-2 expression when compared with individual components. PF2405 (25 mg/kg b.w.) treatment significantly reduced histopathological severity; suppressed expression of COX-2, TNF-α, and interleukin-1β in TNBS-induced mice. Moreover, PF2405 (25 mg/kg b.w.) has both potent preventive and therapeutic activities in DSS-induced colitis. Collectively, PF2405 shows prominent anti-inflammatory effect that can be used as a new therapeutic approach for intestinal inflammatory disorders.