Vigna angularis inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pharmacology
• Natural Product Research

Background:

• Allergic inflammatory reactions involve mast cell activation and the release of mediators like histamine and cytokines.
• Understanding the mechanisms underlying mast cell degranulation is crucial for developing anti-allergic therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the inhibitory effects of Vigna angularis extracts (EVA) on allergic inflammatory responses.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which EVA modulates mast cell activity.

Main Methods:

• Assessed histamine release and pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-6) expression in human mast cells (HMC-1).
• Investigated intracellular calcium levels, nuclear factor (NF)-κB, and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activation.
• Utilized in vivo mouse models for systemic and local allergic reactions.

Main Results:

• EVA dose-dependently inhibited histamine release induced by PMACI.
• EVA's histamine inhibition was linked to reduced intracellular calcium levels.
• EVA suppressed PMACI-stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression and secretion.
• Inhibition of cytokines was dependent on NF-κB and MAPK pathways.
• EVA attenuated compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis and IgE-mediated cutaneous anaphylaxis in mice.

Conclusions:

• Vigna angularis extracts demonstrate potent anti-allergic properties by inhibiting mast cell degranulation and mediator release.
• EVA exerts its effects through modulation of intracellular calcium, NF-κB, and MAPK signaling pathways.
• EVA holds potential as a therapeutic agent for managing allergic inflammatory disorders.