Salvianolic acid D: A potent molecule that protects against heart failure induced by hypertension via Ras signalling pathway and PI3K/Akt signalling pathway

Salvianolic acid D (Sal D) is a natural substance extracted from Radix Salviae that performs a cardiovascular benefit. However, the protective mechanism of Sal-D for heart failure remains uncertain. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effect of Sal D on heart failure and elucidate its underlying mechanisms. Using the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) as a cardiac remodelling model, the cardioprotective effect of Sal D was evaluated. Employing bioinformatics analysis, the related mechanisms of Sal D treatment on heart failure were identified and validated by Western blot and polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that Sal D significantly improved cardiac function and attenuated cardiac hypertrophy. Besides, Sal D impaired mitochondrial structure and restored the energy charge of cardiomyocytes managed by angiotensin II. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that Sal D might improve heart failure by modulating the Ras and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways verified in vitro and in vivo. In summary, Sal D can improve the heart function of SHR by inhibiting the Ras signalling pathway and activating the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. •We first clarify that Sal D can improve heart failure by Ras signalling pathway and PI3K/AKT signalling pathway.•Heart failure is assessed in different forms, including cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis.•Bioinformatics is used to clarify the mechanism of Sal D.