Treatment with Sheng-Mai-San reduces myocardial infarct size through activation of protein kinase C and opening of mitochondrial KATP channel

Sheng-Mei-San (SMS), a traditional Chinese formulation comprising Radix Gin seng, Radix Ophiopogonis and Fructus Schisandrae, has long been used for mo re than 700 years for patients with coronary heart disease. We attempted to clarify 1) whether SMS reduces myocardial infarct size, and 2) whether the infarct size-reducing effect of SMS is related to activation of protein ki nase C and the opening of the mitochondrial KATP channels in Japanese white rabbits without collateral circulation. The results indicate that three da ys treatment but not acute treatment with SMS reduces myocardial infarct si ze through activation of protein kinase C and opening of the mitochondrial KATP channels.