Evaluation of the effects of Astragalus fasciculifolius hydroalcoholic extract on rat ileum contractions: The role of adrenergic, opioid, and nitric oxide receptors

Abstract

Background and aims: This study aimed to determine the effects of Astragalus fasciculifolius hydroalcoholic extract on rat ileum contractions: The role of adrenergic, opioid, and nitric oxide (NO) receptors. Methods: A. fasciculifolius extract was prepared using 70% alcohol by maceration extraction. 2 cm pieces from the end of the rat ileum were placed in a tissue bath containing Tyrode’s solution. The tissue bath solution is constantly oxygenated. Potassium chloride (KCl), naloxone, Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), propranolol, and different concentrations of calcium chloride were used to stimulate the ileum. Ileum contractions were recorded isotonically under 1 g of initial tension. The results were calculated as the amount of shortening (in millimeters). Results: This study showed that A. fasciculifolius extract caused a significant increase in ileum contraction compared to the control group (P < 0.001). This increase in contraction was amplified in combination with opioid or NO receptor antagonists (P < 0.001). Also, this effect was not significantly different in association with beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that A. fasciculifolius extract enhances the contractile function of the ileum in rats. This function is reinforced by opioid receptor antagonists and NO.

Keywords

• constipation
• astragalus fasciculifolius
• tissue bath