Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

Humanized Mediator Release Assay as a Read-Out for Allergen Potency
Published on: June 29, 2021
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester attenuates IgE-induced immediate allergic reaction
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt. manarahna@yahoo.com
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), found in propolis, effectively reduces allergic responses by inhibiting immunoglobulin E (IgE) and histamine release. This natural compound shows promise as a therapeutic agent for various allergic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Natural Products Chemistry
Background:
- Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is the primary bioactive compound in honey bee propolis.
- Propolis extracts are traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
- Understanding CAPE's mechanism in allergic reactions is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anti-allergic properties of CAPE.
- To evaluate CAPE's effect on immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated responses.
- To assess CAPE's impact on mast cell degranulation and vascular permeability.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies using isolated rat peritoneal mast cells.
- In vivo studies including passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats.
- Assessment of vascular permeability and smooth muscle contraction in animal models.
- Measurement of histamine, serotonin (5-HT), and leukotrienes (LTs) release.
Main Results:
- CAPE significantly attenuated IgE-mediated allergic responses in mast cells.
- Oral CAPE administration inhibited IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis.
- CAPE reduced histamine and 5-HT-induced vascular permeability in rats.
- CAPE decreased histamine and LTs release from isolated mast cells.
- CAPE suppressed contractions induced by histamine, 5-HT, and adenosine in guinea pig tracheas.
Conclusions:
- CAPE demonstrates potent anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- CAPE acts by inhibiting key mediators of allergic reactions.
- CAPE shows potential as a therapeutic agent for managing allergic diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Allergic Reactions
Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis
Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
Allergic Drug Reactions
Antibody Structure
Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins (Ig), are essential players of the adaptive immune system. These antigen-binding proteins are produced by B cells and make up 20 percent of the total blood plasma by weight. In mammals, antibodies fall into five different classes, which each elicits a different biological response upon antigen binding.
The Y-Shaped Structure of Antibodies Consists of Four Polypeptide Chains
Antibodies consist of four polypeptide chains: two identical heavy...
Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions
