OBJECTIVE  To explore the effect of 5-(4-phenoxybutoxy) psoralen (PAP-1) on atherosclerosis (AS) and cardioprotection in rats.

  METHODS  The AS model was established in rats, and the rats were randomly divided into control, model, PAP-1 and AV groups. HE staining was used to observe the carotid artery morphology. Western blot was performed to detect the expressions of MSR1 and ABCA1. Serum total cholesterol (CHO) was determined by COD-PAP enzymatic method. ELISA method was used to measure the levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. The cardiomyocyte areas were evaluated by WGA staining. Vevo 3100 doppler echocardiography was used to observe ventricular ultrasound images and calculate cardiac function. The levels of cardiomyocyte fibrosis and collagen deposition were detected by Masson and immunohistochemical staining.

  RESULTS  PAP-1 intervention reduced the levels of serum CHO and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. PAP-1 reversed the protein expressions of MSR1 and ABCA1. PAP-1 inhibited cardiac enlargement and structural remodeling, and reduced cardiomyocyte fibrosis accumulation.

  CONCLUSION  PAP-1 has a certain role in AS rats, which may be related to the regulation of the expression of MSR1 and ABCA1 and reduction of serum CHO. PAP-1 also has a cardioprotection effect on AS rats via alleviation of cardiac structure enlargement, function disorder and fibrosis.