Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

Revealing the Ferroptotic Phenotype of Medulloblastoma
Published on: March 15, 2024
Palmatine restores airway epithelial barrier function of asthma by inhibiting Alox15-mediated ferroptosis
Lei Zhao1, Jifei Wu1, Yichen Zhang2
1Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
Background:
Epithelial barrier dysfunction plays a key role in asthma pathogenesis. Palmatine has been shown to reinforce epithelial integrity in colitis and ameliorate urticaria-like skin inflammation, suggesting potential barrier-protective effects.
Purpose:
To investigate the barrier-protective role of palmatine in eosinophilic asthma.
Study Design And Methods:
An ovalbumin-induced eosinophilic asthma model was established. After palmatine administration, lung function, airway responsiveness, mucus secretion, collagen deposition, and epithelial barrier integrity were assessed. Proteomics, molecular docking, cellular experiments, and immunofluorescence were performed to elucidate underlying mechanisms.
Results:
Palmatine markedly restored epithelial barrier integrity by upregulating E-cadherin, occludin, and ZO-1. Correspondingly, it improved both large- and small-airway obstruction, and reduced airway hyperresponsiveness. It also reduced IL-5, IL-13, and MMP9 levels, indicating attenuation of inflammation and collagen deposition. Proteomics and mechanistic studies revealed that palmatine suppressed Alox15-mediated ferroptosis in airway epithelial cells, reflected by reduced GSSG, MDA, and LPO and increased GSH levels in lung tissue. In erastin-treated BEAS-2B cells, palmatine inhibited Alox15 and PEBP1 expression accompanied by recovery of epithelial junction proteins E-cadherin, occludin, and ZO-1.
Conclusion:
Palmatine exhibits therapeutic effects in eosinophilic asthma. By inhibiting Alox15-mediated ferroptosis, it restores airway epithelial barrier integrity and alleviates inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness, highlighting its promise as a potential therapeutic agent for eosinophilic asthma.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Breathing
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Antiasthma Drugs: Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers work through two distinct mechanisms:
Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...