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Published on: May 15, 2019
Pimecrolimus reduces eosinophil activation associated with calcium mobilization
Douglas A Plager1, Susan A Henke, Yoshinori Matsuwaki
1Allergic Diseases Research Laboratory, Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Guggenheim 4-94, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. plager.douglas@mayo.edu
Pimecrolimus moderately inhibits eosinophil superoxide anion production and degranulation, key factors in allergic diseases like atopic dermatitis. This finding may explain its therapeutic benefits.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Pimecrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, treats atopic dermatitis by inhibiting T cell and mast cell activation.
- The impact of pimecrolimus on eosinophils, crucial in allergic inflammation, was previously unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of pimecrolimus on eosinophil functions.
- Specifically examining its influence on superoxide anion production, degranulation, and survival.
Main Methods:
- Eosinophils from normal and atopic donors were treated with pimecrolimus and stimulated with various agents (PAF, IL5, sIgA, fungal extract).
- Eosinophil activation was assessed via superoxide anion production and eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) release.
- Cell survival was measured using flow cytometry after 4 days of culture.
Main Results:
- Pimecrolimus (1 microM) inhibited platelet-activating factor (PAF)-induced superoxide anion production by up to 37%.
- Eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) release, a marker of degranulation, was inhibited by approximately 30% with PAF, IL5, and sIgA, and up to 49% with fungal extract.
- Pimecrolimus did not affect eosinophil survival, even when promoted by IL5 and sIgA.
Conclusions:
- Pimecrolimus demonstrates a moderate inhibitory effect on eosinophil superoxide anion production and degranulation.
- These effects, linked to calcium signaling pathways, may contribute to pimecrolimus's efficacy in treating atopic dermatitis.
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