OBJECTIVETo observe different effects of acetoacetate extract of Radix Aconite and Radix Aconite Decoction on the energy metabolism in deficient cold model rats.

METHODSWistar rats were randomly divided into the blank control group (n=10) and the deficient cold model group (n=30). The deficient cold rat model was established using decoction consisting of gypsum, Radix Gentianae, Cortex Phellodendri, and Rhizoma Anemarrhenae. The decoction was given to rats of the deficient cold model group by gastrogavage for 5 days. Then these rats were randomly divided into the acetoacetate extract of Radix Aconite group (n=10), the Radix Aconite Decoction group (n=10), and the model group (n=10). Rats in the model model group were administered with the decoction by gastrogavage. Rats in the other two groups were administered with the acetoacetate extract of Radix Aconite or Radix Aconite Decoction by gastrogavage for 5 days. The contents of lactic acid (LA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), pyruvate (PA), glycogen (Gn) and activities of Na(+) -K(+) -ATPase and Ca(2+) -Mg(2+) -ATPase in the hepatic tissue were detected.

RESULTSCompared with the blank control group, the PA content, activities of Na(+)-K(+) -ATPase and Ca(2+) -Mg(2+) -ATPase decreased in the model group. Compared with the model group, the PA content increased in the other two groups. Compared with the control group, the contents of LDH and PA, and activities of Na(+) -K(+) -ATPase increased in the the acetoacetate extract of Radix Aconite group with statistical difference (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONSThe febricity of acetoacetate extract of Radix Aconite was slightly higher than that of Radix Aconite Decoction, seemingly generating more energy. But the final conclusions and concrete mechanisms of action need further studies.