Abstract: AIM: To investigate the effects of Centalla asiatica combining emodin on complement C3 mRNA and protein expression in BALB/C mice glomerular mesangial cells (MsC)stimulated by Tumor Necrosis Factor α(TNFα).METHODS: Cultured mice MsC from thirdfifth generation were exposed to TNFα5 ng·ml ^-1 and Centella asiatica (1, 2 and 4 μg·ml ^-1)combining emodin (0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 μg·ml ^-1) for 24 h.The transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)were performed to analysis complement C3 mRNA and protein expression. RESULTS: TNFαup-regulated C3 expression by MsC. This effect was inhibited by different concentrations of Centalla asiatica combining emodin in a dose-dependent manner.CONCLUSION: Centalla asiatica combining emodin inhibits C3 expression stimulated by TNFαin source of kidney local.It can protect function of kidney and delay development of nephropathic process.

Key words: Centalla asiatica combining emodin, renal mesangial cells, Tumor Necrosis Factor α, complement C3