Effects of asiaticoside on cell proliferation and Smad7 expression of hypertrophic scar fibroblasts

Objective To investigate the effects of asiaticoside on the proliferation and expression of Smad7 of hypertrophic scar fibroblasts. Methods The hypertrophic scar fibroblasts were cultured with tissue culture method. Flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, RT-PCR, and Western blot were applied to investigate the cell cycle, cell apoptosis, and expression of Smad7 with or without asiaticoside. Results Asiaticoside could inhibit hypertrophic scar fibroblasts entering from phase S to phase M and increase the protein contents and Smad7 mRNA in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts. Conclusion Asiaticoside may inhibit the formation of hypertrophic scar partly through the increase of Smad7 expression.