Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2013 | Research article
In-Vitro effect of Ficus deltoidea on the contraction of isolated rat’s uteri is mediated via multiple receptors binding and is dependent on extracellular calcium
Published in: BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies | Issue 1/2013
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Background
Ficus deltoidea, is a perennial herb that is used to assist labor, firm the uterus post-delivery and to prevent postpartum bleeding. In view of its claimed uterotonic action, the mechanisms underlying plant’s effect on uterine contraction were investigated.
Methods
Adult female SD rats were injected with 2 mg/kg 17β-oestradiol (E2) to synchronize their oestrous cycle. A day after injection, uteri were removed for in-vitro contraction studies. The dose dependent effect of Ficus deltoidea aqeous extract (FDA) on the tension produced by the isolated rat’s uteri was determined. The effects of atropine (2×10-8 M), atosiban (0.5 IU), THG113.31 (10 μM), oxodipine (0.25 mM), EDTA (1 mM), 2-amino-ethoxy-diphenylborate (2-APB) (40 mM) and thapsigargin (1 mM) on the maximum force of contraction (Emax) achieved following 2 mg/ml FDA administration were also investigated.
Results
FDA induced in-vitro contraction of the isolated rat’s uteri in a dose-dependent manner. Administration of atropine, atosiban and THG113.31 reduced the Emax with atosiban having the greatest effect. The Emax was also reduced following oxodipine and EDTA administration. There was no significant change observed following 2-APB administration. Thapsigargin, however, augmented Emax.
Conclusions
FDA-induced contraction of the isolated rat’s uteri is mediated via multiple uterotonin receptors (muscarinic, oxytocin and prostaglandin F2α) and was dependent on the extracellular Ca2+. Contraction, however, was not dependent on the Ca2+ release from the internal stores. This in-vitro study provides the first scientific evidence on the claimed effect of Ficus Deltoidea on uterine contraction.