Paeoniflorin selectively inhibits LPS-provoked B-cell function.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• B cells play a key role in autoimmune diseases via dysregulated activation and autoantibody production.
• Paeoniflorin (PF), derived from peony, is used for autoimmune conditions, but its effect on B cells is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the in vitro effects of Paeoniflorin (PF) on murine B-cell function.
• To determine if PF selectively targets specific B-cell activation pathways.

Main Methods:

• Purified murine spleen B cells were used for in vitro analysis.
• B-cell activation, proliferation, differentiation, and immunoglobulin production were assessed.
• Stimulation methods included lipopolysaccharide (LPS), anti-CD40, and IL-4.

Main Results:

• PF inhibited B-cell expression of CD69/CD86 and proliferation induced by LPS.
• PF reduced LPS-stimulated B-cell differentiation and immunoglobulin production.
• PF did not affect B-cell activation or proliferation induced by anti-CD40 or IL-4.

Conclusions:

• PF selectively inhibits B-cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation by blocking the LPS/TLR4 signaling pathway.
• PF may offer a therapeutic strategy for autoimmune diseases by targeting LPS-mediated B-cell responses while preserving other immune functions, potentially reducing secondary infections.