The anti-inflammatory effects of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) derived from cricket (G. bimaculatus, Gb) were investigated in complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) treated chronic arthritis rat model. This GAG produced a meaningful anti-edema effect showing inhibition of C-reactive protein (CRP) and rheumatoid factor. This GAG also inhibited the atherogenesis and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels of VEGF production in HUVEC cells, IL-6, prostaglandin E2 stimulated lipopolysaccharide in LAW 264.7 cells and TNF-α production in normal splenocytes, with dose dependent manner. This GAG was also found to be an inducer of NO production from the HUVEC cells and a stimulator of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. In the histological finding, the LV dorsal root ganglion, linked to the paw treated Gb GAG, was repaired against CFA induced cartilage destruction. The combined Indomethacin (5 mg/kg)-Gb GAG (10 mg/kg) also more effectively inhibited CFA-induced paw edema at 3h, 2nd and 3rd day to levels comparable to anti-inflammatory drug, indomethacin.

• Mi Young Ahn(Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science)
• Jae Sam Hwang(Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science)
• Eun Young Yun(Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science)