Icariin prevents acute high-altitude pulmonary edema in rats by alleviating oxidative stress and modulating cuproptosis-related proteins

Icariin prevents acute high-altitude pulmonary edema in rats by alleviating oxidative stress and modulating cuproptosis-related proteins. Download PDF Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms of ICA in AHAPE. Rats were exposed to a hypobaric hypoxic chamber simulating an altitude of 6000 m (ascent rate: 10 m/s, pressure: 47.3 kPa, O2 concentration: 9.9%) for 3 days to induce AHAPE.

To prevent AHAPE, rats were pretreated with ICA (30, 60, or 120 mg/kg/day) or acetazolamide (100 mg/kg/day) for 7 consecutive days before exposure. The same dosages were continued throughout the 3-day hypobaric hypoxic exposure period. The mechanisms underlying ICA’s effects were investigated using 4D label-free quantitative proteomics.

Immunohistochemistry, Western blotting (WB), and transmission electron microscopy were conducted to verify the proteomic results. Rats with AHAPE exhibited significant body weight loss, elevated counts of white blood cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and increased hemoglobin levels. Increased pulmonary vascular permeability, higher lung water content, severe histopathological damage, and elevated ALT activity were observed.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical decisions and treatment options.