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Early effects triggered by Larrea divaricata Cav. on murine macrophages at apoptotic concentrations

Roberto Davicino1, Aida Mattar, Yolanda Casali

  • 1Departamento de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis. Chacabuco y Pedernera, San Luis, Argentina.

Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology
|December 14, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Larrea divaricata decoction activates murine macrophages, increasing their immune functions and leading to cell death. This "activation and death" mechanism may explain its traditional antituberculosis effects.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Ethnobotany

Background:

  • Larrea divaricata (creosote bush) is used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits.
  • The plant's active compounds and mechanisms of action, particularly on immune cells, require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of Larrea divaricata decoction on peritoneal murine macrophages.
  • To explore the potential immunomodulatory and cytotoxic mechanisms of L. divaricata.

Main Methods:

  • Murine macrophages were incubated with L. divaricata decoction and infusion at apoptotic concentrations (1 and 4 mg/ml).
  • Assays included phagocytosis of zymosan, lysosomal enzyme activity, nitric oxide production, TNF-alpha release, and expression of CD14, TLR4, and CR3.
  • Lipopolysaccharide-FITC (LPS-FITC) binding was also measured.

Main Results:

  • A 4 mg/ml decoction significantly enhanced phagocytosis, lysosomal enzyme activity, nitric oxide production, and TNF-alpha release.
  • Expression of CD14, TLR4, and CR3 increased, indicating macrophage activation.
  • L. divaricata decoction increased LPS-FITC binding, and these effects were independent of nordihydroguaiaretic acid.

Conclusions:

  • L. divaricata decoction at 4 mg/ml activates macrophages, leading to enhanced immune responses and subsequent apoptosis.
  • This "activation and death" process is a potential mechanism underlying the antituberculosis effects of L. divaricata observed in folk medicine.

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