Abstract: To study the mRNA expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), transforming growth factorβ(TGFβ1), collagen I matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1) and its tissue inhibitor 1 (TIMP1) in atherosclerotics treated with QUYU XIAOBAN capsule and simvastatin. Methods: Atherosclerosis was induced in 40 rabbits by cholesterol feeding, and then QUYU XIAOBAN capsule and simvastatin were used for them. The tissues were detected by RTPCR, pathology and immunohistochemistry staining. Results: The lipids and the atherosclerotic plaque were decreased in both groups, but the former was more significantly in the simvastatin group; Whereas the mRNA level of basic fibroblast growth factor(bFGF), transforming growth factorβ(TGFβ1), collagen I, MMP1 and TIMP1 decreased more significantly in QUYU XIAOBAN capsule than in simvastatin group. Conclusion: Chinese medicine and simva statin can make the atherosclerotic plaque regression and stabilize the plaque by reducing the mRNA expression of bFGF,TGFβ1,collagen I and MMP1.

Key words: Arteriosclerosis, Growth substances, Interstitial collagenase, Drug therapy