Analysis of chemical consistency and the anti-tumor activity of huangqi-ezhu (Hq-ez) concentrated-granules and decoction

Abstract

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine decoction and modern concentrated-granules are two kinds of Chinese herbal medicine forms used in clinic at present. The former is extracted by traditional boiling method of a pre-mixed multi-herbal medicine according to the doctor’s prescription. The latter is a mixture of extract active ingredients from a single variety of herbs by modern technology. It is not clear whether there is a difference in the content and efficacy of the active components between the two methods. Methods: The effective components of Huangqi-Ezhu (HQ-EZ) traditional decoction and concentrated-granules were determined by HPLC, and the subcutaneous transplanted tumor model of tumor-bearing mice was established to compare the anti-tumor effect. HQ-EZ traditional decoction and concentrated-granules were given respectively by continuous intragastric administration for 15 days. After the last administration the tumor tissue, liver and kidney were removed completely, and the corresponding indexes were detected. Results: Active components of concentrated-granules and traditional decoction are basically the same. Both of TCM forms have great anti-tumor effect against lung cancer, without toxify to liver and kidney. Conclusions: The two preparation methods have their own advantages in effective components, and the compatibility of HQ-EZ can inhibit the tumor growth of tumor-bearing mice, and has no liver and kidney toxicity.