[Effect of pranlukast on histamine release and leukotriene c4 (ltc4) generation from human peripheral basophils]

Human basophils may play a role in bronchial asthma. The effect of pranlukast on histamine release and LTC4 generation from human peripheral basophils was examined. Histamine release induced by FMLP and C5a was inhibited by pranlukast in concentration-dependent manner, whereas anti-IgE Ab-induced histamine release was not affected. Both anti-IgE Ab-and FMLP-induced LTC4 were inhibited by pranlukast. These results suggest that pranlukast may improve symptoms of bronchial asthma by inhibiting basophil function in addition to antagonizing Cys-LT receptor.