Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 31, 2025

A Microplate Assay to Assess Chemical Effects on RBL-2H3 Mast Cell Degranulation: Effects of Triclosan without Use of an Organic Solvent
Published on: November 1, 2013
Trigonelline: An alkaloid with anti-degranulation properties
Arita Dewi Nugrahini1, Momoko Ishida2, Toshifumi Nakagawa3
1Department of Applied Bioresource Science, The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8566, Japan; Department of Agro-industrial Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia.
Trigonelline, found in coffee, effectively prevents allergic reactions by inhibiting mast cell degranulation. This study demonstrates its anti-degranulation properties in cellular and animal models, suggesting potential for treating allergy development.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
- Food Science
Background:
- Trigonelline is a coffee alkaloid known for nutritional and potential health benefits.
- Previous research has explored its anti-microbial, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-hyperglycemic effects.
- The anti-degranulation effect of trigonelline has not been previously investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the anti-degranulation effect of trigonelline.
- To investigate the mechanisms underlying trigonelline's action on mast cells.
- To assess the potential of trigonelline in mitigating allergic responses.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies using rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) cells to assess β-hexosaminidase release and intracellular signaling pathways.
- In vivo studies utilizing a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction in mice.
- Analysis of FcεRI-mediated intracellular signaling, including phosphorylation of PLCγ1, PI3K, and Akt.
- Investigation of trigonelline's effect on microtubule formation in RBL-2H3 cells.
Main Results:
- Trigonelline significantly suppressed antigen-induced degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells in a dose-dependent manner without cytotoxicity.
- Trigonelline inhibited FcεRI-mediated intracellular signaling pathways and the PCA response in mice.
- The compound also inhibited microtubule formation, indicating action on both calcium-dependent and independent pathways.
Conclusions:
- Trigonelline exhibits a potent anti-degranulation effect on mast cells.
- These findings suggest trigonelline can attenuate IgE-sensitized mast cell degranulation.
- Trigonelline shows promise as a therapeutic agent for preventing or treating allergic diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Directly Acting Muscle Relaxants: Dantrolene and Botulinum Toxin
The binding of dantrolene to the RYR1...
Drugs that Destabilize Microtubules
Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses
Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Chemistry and Structure-Activity Relationship
The direct-acting...
Drugs that Stabilize Microtubules
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating...

