Olive leaf extract (OLE) reduces mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation

Fabio Somma1, Benedetta Romano1, Daniela Claudia Maresca1

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.

Insights

Olive leaf extract (OLE) effectively reduces allergic inflammation by inhibiting mast cell degranulation and the release of inflammatory cytokines. This natural compound modulates calcium signaling and NF-kB activation, offering a potential new treatment for mast cell-associated disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Natural Products

Background:

  • Mast cell-mediated reactions are central to allergic diseases like asthma and dermatitis.
  • Existing antihistaminic drugs face challenges with side effects and resistance, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Olive leaf extract (OLE) is a natural product with known antioxidant and anti-tumoral properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anti-allergic effects of OLE on human mast cells.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms underlying OLE's action in mast cell-mediated inflammation.

Main Methods:

  • Human mast cells (HMC-1.2) were activated using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI).
  • OLE's effects on histamine and β-Hexosaminidase release were measured.
  • Gene and protein expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6) were analyzed.
  • ROS production, mitochondrial mass, membrane potential, and NF-kB activation were assessed.

Main Results:

  • OLE significantly reduced histamine and β-Hexosaminidase release from activated mast cells by modulating calcium signaling.
  • OLE suppressed the PMACI-induced gene expression and secretion of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8.
  • These anti-inflammatory effects were linked to reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and altered mitochondrial function.
  • OLE's inhibitory action was confirmed to be dependent on the modulation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) activation.

Conclusions:

  • OLE effectively inhibits mast cell degranulation and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
  • OLE acts by modulating calcium signaling, ROS production, mitochondrial function, and NF-kB activation.
  • OLE presents a promising therapeutic candidate for managing mast cell-associated allergic disorders.

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