Protective effects of Tougu Xiaotong capsule on tumor necrosis factor-α-injured UMR-106 cells

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) plays an important role in the abnormal metabolism of osteoblasts (OBs), which leads to subchondral bone (SB) alterations in osteoarthritis. In the present study, Tougu Xiaotong capsule (TXC), a traditional Chinese medicine, was used to treat TNF-α-injured OB-like cells. The cellular viability, mortality and ultramicroscopic morphology were evaluated. Thereafter, the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), secretion of osteocalcin (OCN) and mineralization of nodules were analyzed. The results showed that TXC treatment significantly promoted cell proliferation, reduced cellular mortality and improved cellular ultrastructure, particularly that of the endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus. These data indicate that TXC is able to promote cell growth, as well as prevent inflammation in OB-like cells. Furthermore, the activity of ALP, secretion of OCN and mineralization of nodules were accelerated, and the calcium content of the TNF-α-injured OB-like cells was promoted by TXC treatment. These results indicate that TXC protected the OB-like cells from TNF-α-induced injuries. This may be a potential mechanism through which TXC regulates SB remodeling in the clinical treatment of osteoarthritis.