Flavones as inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitors, cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors and potassium channel activators

摘要

The present invention is directed to a method for inhibiting expression of either iNOS or COX-2, or both in mammals using flavone compounds, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The present invention is also directed to a method of activating K<+> channels in mammals; as well as methods for treating septic shock, for inhibiting expression of angiotensin converting enzyme, for treating or preventing aneurysms and for reducing inflammation and related pathological changes using these compounds. Presently preferred compounds are oroxylin A (5,7-dihydroxy-6-methoxy flavone) and wogonin (5,7-dihydroxy-8-methoxy flavone).