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A Flow Cytometry-Based Cytotoxicity Assay for the Assessment of Human NK Cell Activity

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Published on: August 9, 2017

Effect of phytoncide from trees on human natural killer cell function.

Q Li¹, M Kobayashi, Y Wakayama

¹Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan. qing-li@nms.ac.jp

International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology

|January 16, 2010

Summary

Forest air, rich in phytoncides from hinoki cypress, boosts natural killer (NK) cell activity and anti-cancer proteins. This exposure also reduced stress hormones, suggesting a natural way to enhance immune function.

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Area of Science:

Environmental Medicine
Immunology
Human Health

Background:

Forest environments enhance human natural killer (NK) cell activity and lymphocyte anti-cancer proteins.
Increased NK activity from forest exposure persists for over 7 days.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the effect of tree essential oils (phytoncides) on human immune function.
To explore the role of phytoncide exposure in activating human NK cells.

Main Methods:

Twelve healthy males stayed in a hotel exposed to hinoki cypress stem oil vapor (phytoncides).
Blood and urine samples were analyzed for NK cell activity, lymphocyte markers, and stress hormones.
Phytoncide concentrations in the air were measured.

Main Results:

Phytoncide exposure significantly increased NK cell activity and the percentage of NK, perforin, and granzyme A/B-expressing cells.
Exposure decreased T cell percentages and urinary adrenaline/noradrenaline levels.
Phytoncides like alpha-pinene and beta-pinene were detected.

Conclusions:

Phytoncide exposure from hinoki cypress oil can enhance human NK cell activity.
Reduced stress hormone levels may contribute to increased NK cell activity.
Phytoncides offer a potential avenue for immune system support.