Forsythoside A Inhibits Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation, Migration and Phenotypic Switch

Background: Atherosclerosis (AS) is a complex, chronic vascular degeneration caused by multiple factors. VSMC proliferation, migration and phenotypic switch play key roles in AS. The current study aimed to investigate the influence of Forsythoside A on PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation, migration and phenotypic switch. Methods: VSMCs were treated with PDGF-BB (20 ng) and different concentration of Forsythoside A (0, 2.5, 5, 10 μg/ml) for 24 h. Cell viability was determined by CCK8 assay. VSMC migration was measured using wound healing assay. The key proteins related to migration and phenotypic switch were assessed by western blot and RT-qPCR. Results: The concentrations of Forsythoside A at 0, 2.5, 5, 10 μg/ml via 24-h incubation were chosen for the subsequent experiments. Data in CCK8 assay showed that Forsythoside A could inhibit VSMC proliferation induced by PDGF-BB. Western blot and RT-qPCR results discovered that Forsythoside A could inhibit VSMC proliferation and phenotypic switch induced by PDGF-BB. Conclusions: Forsythoside A could inhibit PDGF-BB-induced VSMC proliferation, migration and phenotypic switch. The results may be helpful to develop a new compound for the treatment of AS.