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Published on: May 27, 2015
Apigenin Inhibits IL-31 Cytokine in Human Mast Cell and Mouse Skin Tissues
Denis Nchang Che1,2, Byoung Ok Cho3,4, Jae Young Shin5
1Department of Food Science and Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do 54896, Korea. chedenis88@gmail.com.
Abstract:
IL-31 is a recently discovered cytokine that is produced not only in T-cells but also in mast cells. It is strongly implicated to play a key role in inflammatory diseases and in the pathogenesis of itch in atopic dermatitis. Apigenin, a flavonoid of plant origin has numerous biological applications. In this study, we showed that apigenin modulates IL-31 mRNA, protein expression, and release in stimulated human mast (HMC-1) by inhibiting the phosphorylation activation of MAPK and NF-κB. To determine whether apigenin has similar effects in vivo, using Compound 48/80, we developed an atopic dermatitis itch model in mice and found an increase in IL-31 expression in the skin. We also revealed that apigenin prevents the infiltration and degranulation of mast cells and suppressed mRNA and protein expression of IL-31 in the skin of mice. These results provide a new suggestion of the potential applicability of apigenin for treatment of various inflammatory diseases and itch mediated by IL-31.
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