Abstract

Introduction: It has been shown that the extract of Elaeagnus angustifolia can inhibit inflammation and pain induced by formalin in mice and rats. The aim of the present study is to reach evaluations of possible cellular and molecular mechanisms of Elaeagnus angustifolia extract in reducing pain and inflammation through examining the extract ability for inhibition of cyclooxygenase (Cox) type 1 and 2 enzymes and corticosterone release from adrenal glands in mice. Methods: Male Swiss Webster mice were evaluated through the injection of 2 μliters to the plantar part of right foot. Elaeagnus angustifolia extract was injected to the animals 30 minutes before formalin. In order to evaluate the mechanism of extract, naloxone and memantine were administered intrapretonealy 30 minutes before the extract administration. In separate groups, after injection of extract, blood samples were taken from animals and corticosterone concentrations were measured. In an in vitro study the effect of extract on the activity of cyclooxygenase type 1 and 2 was assessed. Results: the research data showed the ineffectiveness of the extract on acute phase of pain induced by formalin but it completely inhibits the chronic phase. Naloxone and Memantine administration had no effect on the efficacy of extract in the chronic phase. Also the extract administration did not increase the plasma concentration of corticosterone in mice, but in vitro inhibited Cox1 and Cox 2 enzymes. Discussion: These results indicate that Elaeagnus angustifolia extract probably reducesww pain and inflammation caused by formalin in mice by inhibiting cyclooxygenase type 1 and 2 enzymes.