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Polyphenol-enriched apple extract attenuates food allergy in mice
A W Zuercher1, S Holvoet, M Weiss
1Allergy Group, Department of Nutrition and Health, Nestle Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Summary
A polyphenol-enriched apple extract effectively reduced food allergy symptoms in mice. This dietary intervention showed potential in mitigating allergic responses by influencing immune mediators and allergenicity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nutrition Science
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Nutrition plays a role in modulating the immune system for allergy prevention and treatment.
- Apple consumption is associated with a lower incidence of atopic dermatitis and respiratory allergies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of a polyphenol-rich apple extract in alleviating food allergy symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Ovalbumin-induced food allergy model in BALB/c mice.
- Administration of apple extract during sensitization or before challenge.
- Assessment of allergic symptoms, serum immunoglobulins, cytokine production, and intestinal gene expression.
Main Results:
- Apple extract consumption significantly reduced food allergy symptoms.
- Decreased levels of intestinal mast cell protease and pro-inflammatory gene expression.
- Reduced cytokine secretion from mesenteric lymph node cells.
Conclusions:
- Polyphenol-enriched apple extract demonstrates efficacy in attenuating food allergy symptoms in a mouse model.
- Potential mechanisms include reduced mediator release from effector cells and decreased allergenicity through protein-polyphenol interactions.
