A comparative study on the pharmacological effects of Achyranthes root against atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice based on the spectrum-effect relationship

Background In traditional Chinese medicine, herbal processing is used to modify the effects of herbs. Achyranthes bidentata BL (Niu Xi) is commonly used to treat atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, in both raw (RC) and salted (SRC) forms. Salting is known to enhance its effects, particularly on kidney function, but the differences in anti-atherosclerosis efficacy between RC and SRC have not been studied. Results A total of 491 and 501 chemical components were identified in RC and SRC, respectively, with 337 shared components. RC at a high dose (2.4 g/kg/d) was more effective against AS than the same dose of SRC over 12 weeks. Both RC and SRC increased SDF-1, SCF-1, and CXCR4 levels in the aorta of model mice compared to controls, suggesting these agents may protect the vascular endothelium through a related signaling axis. A gray relational analysis of 19 common components using UPLC-MS peak areas showed correlations (gray relational value > 0.6) with serum total cholesterol and bone marrow SDF-1 levels. Conclusions Both RC and SRC have anti-AS effects, but salt-processing does not improve this activity.