Effect of Abnormal Savda Munziq, a Traditional Uighur Herbal Medicine, on Pulmonary Function and Aquaporins of COPD Rat Model with Abnormal Savda Syndrome

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of abnormal savda munziq (ASM) on the pulmonary function and expression of lung-specific aquaporins in the rat model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with abnormal savda syndrome (ASSCOPD). METHODS Eighty male rats were randomized into ASSCOPD, COPD, and control groups. ASSCOPD was further categorized into ASM and non-ASM groups. COPD model was established by combining fumigation with airway instillation of elastase; ASSCOPD model was developed based on COPD by induction with dry cold diet, cold dry environment, and plantar electric stimulation. ASM was administered twice daily. The pulmonary function was evaluated based on respiration. The mRNA and protein levels of AQPs were estimated by real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively. RESULTS MV, TV, the mRNA level of AQP5, and the protein expression of AQP1, AQP4, and AQP5 were increased in ASMCOPD compared to ASSCOPD. CONCLUSION The pulmonary function was impaired in ASSCOPD group; the expression of AQP1, AQP4, and AQP5 was decreased at protein and mRNA levels in ASSCOPD group. ASM can improve the pulmonary function in ASSCOPD for MV and TV. ASM could elevate the protein expression of AQP1, AQP4, and AQP5 and the mRNA level of AQP5 in lung tissue.