Fig. 6: AC specifically binds to cell-free Hb to rapidly scavenge nitric oxide and induce cardiotoxicity.

a The hemolysis effects of AC were evaluated from 6.125 nM to 10 μM in vitro. b HE staining of DO mice heart tissues in 0.3 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, and 0.9 mg/kg group; as well as Masson staining in 0.9 mg/kg. c The interaction between AC and Hb in red blood cells, plasma, and cardiomyocytes. d NO generations in heart tissues were examined in DO mice within 0–240 min after treated with AC (n = 3). Protein expression levels of eNOS, iNOS, nNOS (e), and S-nitrosylation (f) were detected (n = 3).