Avenanthramide C Suppresses Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Expression and Migration Through the MAPK/NF- κB Signaling Pathway in TNF-α-Activated HASMC Cells

In oat ingredients, flavonoids and phenolic acids are known to be the most important phenolic compounds. In phenolic compounds, wide-ranging biological responses, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-cancer properties, were reported. Avenanthramide C (Avn C), a component of the phenolic compound of oats, has been reported to be highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, but its role in an anti-atherosclerosis response is unknown. The aim of this research was to assess the effect of Avn C on expression of MMP-9 on TNF-alpha-activated human arterial smooth-muscle cells (HASMC) and signaling involved in its anti-atherosclerosis activity. HASMC cells are known to produce inflammatory cytokines involving IL-6, IL-1 beta, and TNF-alpha during arteriosclerosis activity. Avn C specifically reduced IL-6 secretion in HASMC cells. Furthermore, we investigated whether Avn C could inhibit NF-kappa B nuclear protein translocation. Avn C suppressed nuclear protein translocation of NF-kappa B in TNF-alpha-stimulated HASMCs. The MMP-9 enzyme activity and expression are controlled through the MAPKs signaling path during the Avn C treatment. We confirmed that the levels of wound healing (p-value = 0.013, *p < 0.05) and migration (p-value = 0.007, **p < 0.01) are inhibited by 100 ng/ml TNF-alpha and 100 mu M Avn C co-treated. Accordingly, Avn C inhibited the expression of MMP-9 and cell migration through the MAPK/NF-kappa B signaling pathway in TNF-alpha-activated HASMC. Therefore, Avn C can be identified and serve as disease prevention material and remedy for atherosclerosis.