Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activities of Pentaherb formula, Moutan Cortex (Danpi) and gallic acid

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pharmacology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis significantly impacts children's quality of life.
• Human basophils (KU812 cells) are key players in allergic inflammation.
• Natural compounds like PHF, DP, and GA show promise for managing allergic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of PHF, DP, and GA.
• To explore their mechanisms using human basophils (KU812 cells).
• To assess the synergistic potential of these natural products with dexamethasone.

Main Methods:

• Utilized human basophils (KU812 cells) activated by IL-33.
• Quantified the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1).
• Measured the release of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6) and chemokines (CCL2, CCL5, CXCL8).
• Assessed the impact on intracellular signaling pathways (p38 MAPK, NF-κB, JNK).

Main Results:

• PHF, DP, and GA significantly suppressed IL-33-induced ICAM-1 expression and chemokine/cytokine release (p < 0.05).
• Combined dexamethasone and GA showed enhanced suppression of ICAM-1 and IL-6/CCL5 release compared to GA alone (p < 0.05).
• GA treatment inhibited IL-33-induced activation of p38 MAPK, NF-κB, and JNK signaling pathways.

Conclusions:

• PHF, DP, and GA possess significant anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
• These effects are mediated through the suppression of key inflammatory mediators and signaling pathways.
• Combination therapy with dexamethasone and natural products may offer a potent therapeutic strategy for allergic diseases with improved safety profiles.