Objective: To observe the effect of Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction ()-containing serum (XFZYD-CS) on endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) tube formation in vitro.
Methods: Mononuclear cells from rat bone marrow were prepared in a Ficoll density gradient centrifuge. EPCs were separated by the differential attachment method, and observed with inverted microscope for the effect of XFZYD-CS on EPC tube formation.
Results: After one day, EPCs exposed to the serum containing 5%, 10% and 15% XFZYD-CS formed typical tubes or vessel networks. The tube formation time was two days ahead of the control group and the size of most tubes in the serum groups was smaller than in the control group.
Conclusion: XFZYD-CS could induce EPC angiogenesis and hasten tube formation, especially in capillary vessels. The study provides experimental evidence for the plausibility of Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction in the treatment of ischemic diseases.