A Novel Antithrombocytopenia Agent, Rhizoma Cibotii, Promotes Megakaryopoiesis and Thrombopoiesis Through the PI3K/AKT, MEK/ERK, and JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathways

Background: Cibotii rhizoma (CR) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used to treat bleeding, rheumatism, lumbago, etc. However, its therapeutic effects and mechanism against thrombocytopenia are still unknown so far. In the study, we investigated the effects of aqueous extracts of Cibotii rhizoma (AECRs) against thrombocytopenia and its molecular mechanism.Methods: Giemsa staining, phalloidin staining, and flow cytometry were performed to measure the effect of AECRs on the megakaryocyte differentiation in K562 and Meg-01 cells. A radiation-induced thrombocytopenia mouse model was constructed to assess the therapeutic actions of AECRs on thrombocytopenia. Network pharmacology and experimental verification were carried out to clarify its mechanism against thrombocytopenia. Results: AECRs promoted megakaryocyte differentiation in K562 and Meg-01 cells and accelerated platelet recovery and megakaryopoiesis with no systemic toxicity in radiation-induced thrombocytopenia mice. The PI3K/AKT, MEK/ERK, and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways contributed to AECR-induced megakaryocyte differentiation. The suppression of the above signaling pathways by their inhibitors blocked AERC-induced megakaryocyte differentiation. Conclusions: AECRs can promote megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis through activating PI3K/AKT, MEK/ERK, and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways, which has the potential to treat radiation-induced thrombocytopenia in the clinic.