Objective: To discuss the anti-inflammatory and joint protection effect of Fengshining (FSN) capsule in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its action mechanism. Method: The 120 male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into normal control group

model group

Methotrexate group

low-dose

middle-dose and high-dose FSN groups

with 20 in each group.The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and wind-cold dampness rheumatoid arthritis model were established in the groups

except for the normal control group.Low-dose

middle-dose and high-dose FSN groups were given aqueous solution of 0.33

0.66

1.32 g · kg-1 FSN capsule respectively

the methotrexate group was given aqueous solution of 1.0 mg · kg-1 methotrexate tablets

while the normal control group and the model group were given saline solution.Each group was intragastrically administrated with 4 mL · kg-1of corresponding medicines

once a day for 7 days.The effect of FSN capsule on general conditions

joint swelling degree of the animal model were observed

and the expressions of inflammatory factor interleukin (IL)-1β

IL-6

tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α messenger RNA(mRNA) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) mRNA in RA synovium tissues were detected with Real-time PCR method. Result: FSN capsule could improve the living state of RA rabbits significantly

reduce the swelling and arthritis score of stifle

and obviously decrease the expressions of IL-1β

IL-6

TNF-α and RANKL mRNA in RA synovial tissues. Conclusion: FSN capsule has the effect in inhibiting the expression of inflammation factor and RANKL in synovial tissues

and could effectively alleviate inflammation and bone damage

so as to show a curative effect on RA.