Mosla punctulata Inhibits Mast Cell-mediated Allergic Reactions Through the Inhibition of Histamine Release and Inflammatory Cytokine Production

Allergic inflammatory diseases such as food allergy, asthma, sinusitis and atopic dermatitis are increasing worldwide. This study examined the effects of aqueous extract of Mosla punctulata on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and studied the possible mechanism of action. Aqueous extract of Mosla punctulata inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic and immunoglobulin E-mediated local anaphylaxis and it also reduced intracellular calcium level and down-streamed histamine release from mast cells. In addition, aqueous extract of Mosla punctulata decreased gene expression and secretion of tumour necrosis factor alpha, an important proinflammatory cytokine, in mast cells. The inhibitory effect on tumour necrosis factor alpha expression was nuclear factor kappa B dependent. The results indicate that aqueous extract of Mosla punctulata inhibited mast cell-mediated allergic inflammatory reaction by suppressing histamine release and expression of tumour necrosis factor alpha, and involvement of calcium and nuclear factor kappa B in these effects. Hence it can be concluded that, the aqueous extract of Mosla punctulata might be a possible therapeutic candidate for allergic inflammatory disorders.

60 EFFECTS OF REPETITIVE IONOMYCIN TREATMENT ON BOVINE SOMATIC CELL NUCLEAR TRANSFER (SCNT) EMBRYOS

In bovine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), oocyte activation is an essential element for the successful development of cloned embryos. Chemical treatment with ionomycin induces transient levels of Ca2+, and this has been used in the activation of reconstructed embryos. In vitro-fertilized oocytes are naturally activated by sperm following several Ca2+ transients known collectively as Ca2+ oscillations. We aimed to improve the developmental efficiency of embryos produced by SCNT by mimicking this Ca2+ oscillation artificially. SCNT was performed as follows; bovine calf skin fibroblast cells were transferred into the perivitelline space of IVM oocytes, and then these NT couplets were treated with electrical fusion (2 pulses, 1.75 kV cm-1, 15 μs). Reconstructed embryos were subsequently cultured in SOF medium (5% CO2, 5% O2, and 38°C). To mimic Ca2+ oscillation, we carried out 3 different repetitive ionomycin (10 μM) treatments at 1-h intervals. There were 3 groups: group 1 (4 min, 1 time), group 2 (30 s, 4 times), and group 3 (1 min, 4 times). The difference in embryo development amongst these experimental groups was then analyzed using the one-way ANOVA test after arcsine transformation to maintain homogeneity of variance. All analyses were performed using SAS (version 8.1, SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA). Significant differences among the treatments were determined when the P-value was <0.05. In experiment 1, to assess developmental efficiency, the cleavage rate was investigated on Day 2 and the formation rate of blastocysts (BL) was examined on Day 7. In group 3, a significant increase in BL formation was observed [47/263 (17.8%), 50/259 (19.3%), and 67/258 (26.0%), respectively]. In experiment 2, culturing each group of embryos with different ionomycin treatments caused no significant differences among the groups in terms of the total number of BL (164.3, 158.5, and 145.1, respectively). In experiment 3, expression of apoptosis-related genes in each group was evaluated by real-time PCR and the TUNEL assay. The 3 BL within each group were analyzed for the expression of apotosis-related genes. Expression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene was increased in group 3, whereas the expression of the pro-apoptotic Bax was decreased. A decrease in the number of apoptotic nuclei was also observed in group 3. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that repetitive ionomycin treatment is an improved activation method that can increase the developmental competence of SCNT embryos by decreasing the incidence of apoptosis.

Daeganghwal-tang inhibits the stem cell factor-induced migration and inflammatory cytokines secretion in mast cells

Traditional Oriental medicinal prescription, Daeganghwal-tang (DGHT) has been used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Korea. However, its effect in experimental models remains unknown. Recent reports suggest that in patients with RA, synovial mast cells increase in number and show signs of activation and inflammatory cytokines secretion. Our results show that stem cell factor (SCF) is a potent chemotactic factor for the mast cells in vitro. The chemotactic response to SCF was blocked by DGHT. When DGHT (1mg/ml) was added, the secretion of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta and IL-6 was inhibited by 60.1, 81.8, 72.5%, respectively in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) plus calcium ionophore A23187-stimulated HMC-1 cells. In addition, the expression of TNF-alpha mRNA in HMC-1 cells was inhibited by DGHT (1mg/ml). These findings indicate that DGHT inhibits SCF-induced migration and PMA plus calcium ionophore-stimulated inflammatory cytokines secretion in mast cells.

Inhibition of tumour necrosis factor-alpha secretion from rat astrocytes by Sesim-Tang

Substance P (SP) can stimulate secretion of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) from astrocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In this study, we have examined whether an aqueous extract of Sesim-Tang inhibits the secretion of TNF-alpha from primary cultures of rat astrocytes. Sesim-Tang (10-1000 microg/mL) significantly inhibited the TNF-alpha secretion by astrocytes stimulated with LPS and SP. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been shown to elevate TNF-alpha secretion from LPS-stimulated astrocytes while having no effect on astrocytes in the absence of LPS. We therefore examined whether IL-1 mediated inhibition of TNF-alpha secretion from primary astrocytes by Sesim-Tang. Treatment with Sesim-Tang (10-1000 microg/mL) of astrocytes stimulated with both LPS and SP decreased IL-1 secretion significantly. Moreover, the secretion of TNF-alpha by LPS and SP in astrocytes was progressively inhibited with increasing amounts of IL-1 neutralizing antibody. Our results suggest that Sesim-Tang may inhibit TNF-alpha secretion by inhibiting IL-1 secretion and that Sesim-Tang has an antiinflammatory activity in the central nervous system.

Effect of Alpinia oxyphylla fruit extract on compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic reactions

The effect of the aqueous extract of Alpinia oxyphylla Miq. (Zingiberaceae) fruits (AOFE) on anaphylactic reaction was investigated. AOFE completely inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylactic shock at dose of 1.0 g/kg. When AOFE was pretreated at concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 1.0 g/kg, the plasma histamine levels induced by compound 48/80 were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. AOFE also inhibited the histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) by compound 48/80. The level of cAMP in RPMC, when AOFE was added, transiently and significantly increased about 4-fold compared with that of basal cells. These results indicate that AOFE may be beneficial in the treatment of non-specific anaphylactic reactions.

Estrogen regulates cytokine release in human mast cells

Estrogens are important for bone homeostasis and are classified as anti-resorptive agents. In ovariectomized rats, mast cell changes occurred during the activation of resorption. In addition, quantitative changes occurred in mast cell population residing near the site undergoing resorption. Considering these studies, mast cells may play a role in osteoporosis. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to study mast cell cytokine production also in the presence or absence of estrogen. When cultured in the absence of estrogen, human mast cells treated with PMA or A23187 demonstrated significantly greater release of TNF-alpha and IL-6 than cells grown under estrogen-depleted condition. Our results show that treatment of mast cells with estrogen prevented PMA or A23187-stimulated TNF-alpha or IL-6 release. These data provide evidence for a potent inhibition of cytokines by estrogen in human mast cells. This study may help to explain the association between mast cells and osteoporosis.

DNA hypomethylation of karyoplasts for bovine nuclear transplantation

The objective of this research was to evaluate if DNA hypomethylation in cells used as karyoplasts would improve development of bovine nuclear transplantation (NT) embryos. DNA from serum-fed (SF), serum-starved (SS), and 1, or 5 microM 5-azacytidine (5-aza-CR) treated cells was digested with a methylation sensitive enzyme, and evaluated for DNA methylation. A significant reduction in DNA methylation was observed in cells cultured for 48 or 72 hr in SS medium as well as in cells cultured for 48 hr in the presence of 5 microM 5-aza-CR when compared to cells cultured in SF medium. All other comparisons contained no significant differences when compared to controls. When donor cells were cultured in 5-aza-CR, SF, or SS treatment media for 48 hr, no significant difference was observed (P = 0.06) in blastocyst development rates after NT. One embryo produced by donor cells treated with 5-aza-CR established a pregnancy. Four pregnancies resulted from embryos produced by SS donor cell NT and 3 resulted from embryos produced by SF donor cell NT. Supplementation of the donor cell culture medium with 5-aza-CR was not beneficial for increasing blastocyst rate or establishing pregnancy after NT.

Development of porcine oocytes from preovulatory follicles of different sizes after maturation in media supplemented with follicular fluids

The development of porcine oocytes from large (3.1-8.0 mm in diameter) or small (<3.1 mm) follicles was examined after maturation culture in medium containing porcine follicular fluid (pFF). Large follicles yielded larger (256 microm v. 221 microm; P<0.05) cumulus-oocyte complexes and more (22 v. 14%) morphologically normal oocytes than small follicles (Experiment 1). In Experiments 2-4, maturation media supplemented with mixed pFF (10%) from small and large follicles was used. More oocytes from large follicles matured (58% v. 91%), formed pronuclei (81% v. 90%) and developed to the blastocyst stage (2% v. 10%) than oocytes from small follicles. In Experiments 5-7, the effects of pFF collected from either small or large follicles on oocyte development were examined. Regardless of the source of oocytes, large-follicle-derived pFF more significantly enhanced preimplantation development than did small-follicle-derived pFF. The highest rate of blastocyst formation (16%) was found when oocytes from large follicles were cultured in maturation medium containing large-follicle-derived pFF. These results suggest that oocytes from large follicles have greater developmental potential than oocytes from small follicles, and that the origin of pFF, which is added to the maturation media, might be an important factor for improving in vitro development of porcine oocytes.

Inhibition of immediate-type allergic reactions by Prunella vulgaris in a murine model

We studied the effect of aqueous extract of Prunella vulgaris (Labiatae) (PVAE) on immediate-type allergic reactions. PVAE (0.005 to 1 g/kg) dose-dependently inhibited systemic anaphylactic shock induced by compound 48/ 80 in rats. When PVAE was given as pretreatment, at concentrations ranging from 0.005 to 1 g/kg, the serum histamine levels induced by compound 48/ 80 were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. PVAE (0.001 to 1 g/kg) inhibited the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE antibody dose dependently. PVAE also inhibited the histamine release induced by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE from the rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC). The level of cyclic AMP in RPMC, when PVAE was added, significantly increased, compared with that of normal control. Moreover, PVAE (0.01 and 0.1 mg/ml) had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-mediated tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from RPMC. These results indicate that PVAE inhibits immediate-type allergic reactions in rats.

Antiallergic action of Magnolia officinalis on immediate hypersensitivity reaction

We studied the effect of aqueous extract of Magnolia officinalis bark (Magnoliaceae) (MOAE) on the immediate hypersensitivity reaction. MOAE (0.01 to 1 g/kg) dose-dependently inhibited compound 48/80 induced systemic anaphylaxis in rats. MOAE (0.1 and 1 g/kg) also significantly inhibited local immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylactic reaction. When MOAE was pretreated at concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 1 g/kg, the levels of plasma histamine were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. MOAE (0.001 to 1 mg/ml) dose-dependently inhibited the histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) activated by compound 48/80 or anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE. The level of cyclic AMP (cAMP) in RPMC, when MOAE was added, significantly increased compared with that of the normal control. Moreover, MOAE (0.01 to 1 mg/ml) had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from RPMC. These results indicate that MOAE inhibits immediate hypersensitivity reaction in vivo and in vitro.

Disodium cromoglycate inhibits production of immunoglobulin E

Disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) has been shown to inhibit the release of mediators from mast cells. In the present study, the effect of DSCG on active anaphylactic reaction was studied in mice. DSCG dose-dependently inhibited the active systemic anaphylactic reaction and serum immunoglobulin (Ig)E production induced by immunization with ovalbumin, Bordetella pertussis toxin and aluminum hydroxide gel. DSCG strongly inhibited IL-4-dependent IgE production by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated murine whole spleen cells. In the case of U266 human IgE-bearing B cells, DSCG also showed an inhibitory effect on the IgE production. These results suggest that DSCG has an anti-anaphylactic activity by inhibition of IgE production from B cells.

Antiosteoporotic activity of Dae-Bo-Won-Chun in ovariectomized rats

The preventive effect of the herbal formulation, "Dae-Bo-Won-Chun" (DBWC), on the progress of bone loss induced by ovariectomy (OVX) was studied in rats. From light microscope analyses, porous or erosive appearances were observed on the surface of trabecular bone of tibia in ovariectomized rats, whereas those of the same bone in sham-operated rats were composed of fine particles. The trabecular bone area and trabecular thickness in ovariectomized rats decreased by 50% from those in sham-operated rats, these decreases were completely inhibited by administration of DBWC at a concentration of 10 mg/kg per day for 7 weeks. The mechanical strength of the neck of the femur was decreased by ovariectomy, and this was significantly suppressed by the administration of DBWC. Serum phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase and thyroxine levels in ovariectomized rats increased compared with those in sham-operated rats, and increases were completely inhibited by the administration of DBWC. These results strongly suggest that DBWC is effective in preventing the development of bone loss induced by ovariectomy in rats.

Inhibitory action of water soluble fraction of Terminalia chebula on systemic and local anaphylaxis

We investigated the effects of the water soluble fraction of Terminalia chebula (Combretaceae) (WFTC) on systemic and local anaphylaxis. WFTC administered 1h before compound 48/80 injection inhibited compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic shock 100% with doses of 0.01-1.0 g/kg. When WFTC was administered 5 or 10 min after compound 48/80 injection, the mortality also decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Passive cutaneous anaphylaxis was inhibited by 63.5+/-7.8% by oral administration of WFTC (1.0 g/kg). When WFTC was pretreated at concentrations ranging from 0.005 to 1.0 g/kg, the serum histamine levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. WFTC (0.01-1.0 mg/ml) also significantly inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) by compound 48/80. However, WFTC (1.0 mg/ml) had a significant increasing effect on anti-dinitrophenyl IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from RPMC. These results indicate that WFTC may possess a strong antianaphylactic action.

Inhibitory effect of tumor necrosis factor-alpha secretion from rat astrocytes by Chilbokeum

Substance P (SP) can stimulate secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) from astrocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In this study, we have examined whether an aqueous extract of Chilbokeum inhibits secretion of TNF-alpha from primary cultures of rat astrocytes. Chilbokeum (10 microg/ml) significantly inhibited the TNF-alpha secretion by astrocytes stimulated with LPS and SP. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been shown to elevate TNF-alpha secretion from LPS-stimulated astrocytes while having no effect on astrocytes in the absence of LPS. We therefore examined whether IL-1 mediated inhibition of TNF-alpha secretion from primary astrocytes by Chilbokeum. Treatment of Chilbokeum (10 and 100 microg/ml) to astrocytes stimulated with both LPS and SP decreased IL-1 secretion significantly. Moreover, the secretion of TNF-alpha by LPS and SP in astrocytes was progressively inhibited with increasing amount of IL-1 neutralizing antibody. Our results suggest that Chilbokeum may inhibit TNF-alpha secretion by inhibiting IL-1 secretion and that Chilbokeum has an antiinflammatory activity in the central nervous system.

Benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloids from Corydalis incisa

Six benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloids, corynoline (1), acetylcorynoline (2), corynoloxine (3), luguine (4), 6-oxocorynoline (5), and 12-hydroxycorynoloxine (6) were isolated from the aerial parts of Corydalis incisa, and 6 was isolated for the first time from nature. The structure was elucidated by NMR techniques.

Effect of Vitex rotundifolia on immediate-type allergic reaction

We investigated the effect of aqueous extract of Vitex rotundifolia (L.) (Verbenaceae) fruits (VRFE) on the immediate-type allergic reactions in vivo and in vitro. VRFE (10(-4)-1.0 g/kg) dose-dependently inhibited systemic allergic reaction induced by compound 48/80. When VRFE was employed in a systemic allergic reaction test, the plasma histamine levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. VRFE (5x10(-1) and 1.0 g/kg) inhibited passive cutaneous anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE. VRFE (10(-3)-1.0 mg/ml) also dose-dependently inhibited the histamine release from the rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. Moreover, VRFE (10(-3) mg/ml) had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from RPMC. These results suggest that VRFE may be beneficial in the regulation of immediate-type allergic reaction.

Spirobenzylisoquinoline alkaloids from Corydalis ochotensis

Separation of the alkaloids from the aerial parts of Corydalis ochotensis afforded a new spirobenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, 8-O-acetylcorysolidine along with two known spirobenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, isoochotensine and corysolidine.

Inhibitory effect of mast cell-dependent anaphylaxis by Gleditsia sinensis

We investigated the effect of aqueous extract of Gleditsia sinensis thorns (Leguminosae) (GSAE) on the mast cell-dependent anaphylaxis. GSAE (0.005 to 1 g/kg) dose-dependently inhibited systemic anaphylaxis induced by compound 48/80 in rats. GSAE (0.1 and 1 g/kg) also significantly inhibited local anaphylaxis activated by anti-DNP IgE. When GSAE was pretreated at the same concentrations with systemic anaphylaxis, the plasma histamine levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. GSAE (0.001 to 1 mg/ml) dose-dependently inhibited the histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. The level of cyclic AMP in RPMC, When CSAE (1 mg/ml) was added, transiently and significantly increased about fourfold compared with that of basal cells. Moreover, GSAE (0.01 and 0.1 mg/ml) had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from RPMC. These results suggest a possible use of GSAE in managing mast cell-dependent anaphylaxis.

Inhibitory effect of mast cell-mediated immediate-type allergic reactions in rats by Perilla frutescens

We investigated the effect of aqueous extract of Perilla frutescens (Labiatae) (PFAE) on the mast cell-mediated immediate-type allergic reactions. PFAE (0.05 to 1 g/kg) dose-dependently inhibited systemic allergic reaction induced by compound 48/80 in rats. PFAE (0.1 and 1 g/kg) also significantly inhibited local allergic reaction activated by anti-DNP IgE. When PFAE was pretreated at the same concentrations with systemic allergic reaction test, the plasma histamine levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. PFAE (10(-3) to 1 mg/ml) dose-dependently inhibited the histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. The level of cyclic AMP in RPMC, When PFAE (1 mg/ml) was added, transiently and significantly increased about 4-fold compared with that of basal cells. Moreover, PFAE (0.001 and 0.01 mg/ml) had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha production. These results indicate that PFAE inhibits mast cell-mediated immediate-type allergic reactions in vivo and in vitro.

Taraxacum officinale inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from rat astrocytes

Substance P (SP) can stimulate production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) from astrocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The objective of the current study was to determine the effect of Taraxacum officinale (TO) on the production of TNF-alpha from primary cultures of rat astrocytes. TO (100 and 1000 microg/ml) significantly inhibited the TNF-alpha production by astrocytes stimulated with LPS and SP. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been shown to elevate TNF-alpha production from LPS-stimulated astrocytes while having no effect on astrocytes in the absence of LPS. We therefore examined whether IL-1 mediated inhibition of TNF-alpha production from primary astrocytes by TO. Treatment of TO (100 and 1000 microg/ml) to astrocytes stimulated with both LPS and SP decreased IL-1 production significantly. Moreover, the production of TNF-alpha by LPS and SP in astrocytes was progressively inhibited with increasing amount of IL-1 neutralizing antibody. Our results suggest that TO may inhibit TNF-alpha production by inhibiting IL-1 production and that TO has an antiinflammatory activity in the central nervous system.

Inhibition of mast cell-mediated anaphylaxis by sochungryong-tang

According to traditional Asian philosophy, sochungryong-tang (S-Tang) is a prescription for treating exterior syndrome. In this study, we investigated the effect of S-Tang on mast cell-mediated anaphylaxis. S-Tang completely inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylactic shock at a dose of 100 mg/kg. When S-Tang was given as pretreatment at concentrations ranging from 1 to 1000 mg/kg, the serum histamine levels induced by compound 48/80 were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. S-Tang inhibited the local anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE antibody, and also inhibited the histamine release from the rat peritoneal mast cells by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. These results indicate that S-Tang may contain substances with actions that inhibit mast cell degranulation.

Suppression of immunoglobulin E-mediated anaphylactic reaction by Alpinia oxyphylla in rats

We investigated the effect of Alpinia oxyphylla water extract (AOWE) on immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE antibody. AOWE dose-dependently suppressed passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) when intraperitoneally or orally administered. On the other hand, it showed weak suppressive activity when administered intravenously. AOWE dose-dependently suppressed anaphylactic histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) activated by anti-DNP IgE antibody. However, AOWE had a significant augmenting effect on anti-DNP IgE antibody-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha secretion from RPMC. These results indicated that AOWE may possess strong antianaphylactic action and also suggest that differential activity following administration routes may be caused by difference of bioavailability.

Anti-allergic components from the peels of Citrus unshiu

In a bioassay-guided search for anti-allergic compounds from higher plants of Korea, polymethoxyflavones, 3',4',5,6,7,8-hexamethoxyflavone (1), 5-hydroxy-3',4',6,7,8-pentamethoxyflavone (II) and 3',4',5,7,8,-pentamethoxyflavone (III) have been isolated from the immature peels of Citrus unshiu. Structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic techniques. Compounds I and II inhibited dose-dependently histamine release from the rat peritoneal mast cells activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE.

Effect of Schizonepeta tenuifolia extract on mast cell-mediated immediate-type hypersensitivity in rats

We investigated the effect of an aqueous extract of Schizonepeta tenuifolia (STAE) on mast cell-mediated immediate-type hypersensitivity. STAE inhibited systemic allergic reaction induced by compound 48/80 in rats dose-dependently. STAE also inhibited plasma histamine levels induced by compound 48/80. STAE inhibited local allergic reaction activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE. In addition, STAE does-dependently inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. However, STAE had a significant enhancing effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) production from RPMC. These results indicate that STAE inhibits immediate-type hypersensitivity and suggest that STAE can selectively activate the TNF-alpha production from RPMC.

Inhibition of immediate-type allergic reaction by Rosa davurica Pall. in a murine model

We studied the effect of Rosa davurica Pall. (Rosaceae) fruits (RdF) on immediate-type allergic reactions. RdF completely inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylactic shock at the dose of 1 g/kg. When RdF was given as pretreatment, at concentrations ranging from 0.0001 to 1 g/kg, the serum histamine levels induced by compound 48/80 were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. RdF inhibited the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE antibody dose dependently. RdF also inhibited the histamine release induced by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE from the rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC). Moreover, RdF had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha production from RPMC. These results indicate that RdF may contain compounds with actions that inhibit mast cell degranulation in the rat.

Effect of Cryptotympana atrata extract on compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic reactions

We studied the effect of the aqueous extract of Cryptotympana atrata Fabricius on anaphylactic reactions. Cryptotympana atrata completely inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylactic shock at doses of 0.5 and 1.0 g/kg. When Cryptotympana atrata was given as pretreatment at concentrations ranging from 0.025 to 1.0 g/kg, the plasma histamine levels induced by compound 48/80 were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. Cryptotympana atrata also inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) by compound 48/80. In addition, when Cryptotympana atrata was added, the level of cAMP in RPMC transiently and significantly increased about 14-fold compared with that of control cells. Our studies provide evidence that Cryptotympana atrata may be beneficial in the treatment of nonspecific anaphylactic reactions.

The evaluation of the antianaphylactic effect of Oryza sativa L. subsp. hsien Ting in rats

We studied the effect of the methanol extract of Oryza sativa L. subsp. hsien Ting (OSHT) on anaphylaxis. OSHT (0.001-1.0 mg g-1body weight (BW)) dose-dependently inhibited systemic anaphylaxis induced by compound 48/80 in rats. When OSHT was pretreated at concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 1.0 mg g-1BW, the serum histamine levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. OSHT (0. 001-1.0 mg g-1BW) also inhibited local anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE. Moreover, OSHT dose-dependently inhibited the histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. The level of cAMP in RPMC, when OSHT was added, significantly increased approx. 20-fold compared with that of basal cells. These results indicate that OSHT possesses strong antianaphylactic activity by inhibition of histamine release from mast cells in vivo and in vitro.

Effect of Polygala tenuifolia root extract on the tumor necrosis factor-alpha secretion from mouse astrocytes

We investigated whether an aqueous extract of Polygala tenuifolia root (PTAE) inhibits secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) from primary cultures of mouse astrocytes. PTAE dose-dependently inhibited the TNF-alpha secretion by astrocytes stimulated with substance P (SP) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been shown to elevate TNF-alpha secretion from LPS-stimulated astrocytes while having no effect on astrocytes in the absence of LPS. We therefore also investigated whether IL-1 mediated inhibition of TNF-alpha secretion from primary astrocytes by PTAE. Treatment of PTAE to astrocytes stimulated with both LPS and SP decreased IL-1 secretion to the level observed with LPS alone. Moreover, incubation of astrocytes with IL-1 antibody abolished the synergistic co-operative effect of LPS and SP. These results suggest that PTAE may inhibit TNF-alpha secretion by inhibiting IL-1 secretion and that PTAE has an anti-inflammatory activity on the central nervous system curing some pathological disease states.

Taraxacum officinale restores inhibition of nitric oxide production by cadmium in mouse peritoneal macrophages

Nitric oxide (NO) produced at high concentrations by the inducible NO synthase is an important effector molecule involved in immune regulation and defense. The involvement of NO in the toxicity of cadmium (Cd) has been proposed. We have established that Cd inhibits the production of NO by recombinant IFN-gamma (rIFN-gamma) and lipopolysaccharide-stimulated mouse peritoneal macrophages. In the present study, we searched restoration drug against the inhibition of NO production by Cd in Oriental medicine. An aqueous extract of Taraxacum officinale (Compositae) (TOAE) restored the inhibition of NO production by mouse peritoneal macrophages pretreated with Cd in a dose-dependent manner. The effect of TOAE was mainly dependent on TOAE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) secretion. These results suggest that the capacity of TOAE to restore NO production from interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma)-primed mouse peritoneal macrophages is the result of TOAE-induced TNF-alpha secretion.

Effect of Syzygium aromaticum extract on immediate hypersensitivity in rats

We investigated the effect of aqueous extract of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. et Perry (Myrtaceae) flower bud (SAFB) on immediate hypersensitivity. SAFB inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis in rats (IC50 = 31.25 mg/kg, i.p.). SAFB also inhibited local immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylactic reaction (IC50 = 17.78 mg/kg, i.v.; IC50 = 19.81 mg/kg, p.o.). When SAFB was pretreated at concentrations ranging from 25 to 1000 mg/kg, the serum histamine levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, SAFB dose-dependently inhibited histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) by compound 48/80 or anti-dinitrophenyl IgE. When SAFB was added, the level of cAMP in RPMC transiently and significantly increased about 47-fold at 10 s compared with that of basal cells. These results indicate that SAFB inhibits immediate hypersensitivity by inhibition of histamine release from mast cells in vivo and in vitro.

Antianaphylactic properties of eugenol

The effects of eugenol, a major component of clove, on anaphylaxis were evaluated in rats. Eugenol inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis 100% with a dose of 10 micrograms g-1 body weight (BW). While serum levels of histamine were markedly elevated after compound 48/80 injection in all groups of rats, rats injected with eugenol showed a significant reduction in serum histamine levels. Eugenol also inhibited passive cutaneous anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE. Eugenol dose-dependently inhibited histamine release from the rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. The morphological examination clearly showed that eugenol prevented the anaphylactic degranulation of RPMC. Moreover, Eugenol (10 micrograms ml-1) had a significant inhibitory effect on anti-DNP IgE-induced tumor necrosis factor-alpha production. These results suggest that eugenol has antianaphylactic properties by preventing mast cell degranulation.

Effect of cytochalasin D on systemic and local anaphylaxis in a murine model

We investigated the effect of cytochalasin D on anaphylaxis. Cytochalasin D dose-dependently inhibited systemic anaphylaxis induced by compound 48/80 in rats. Especially, cytochalasin D inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic anaphylaxis 100% with a dose of 1 microg g-1 body weight (BW). Cytochalasin D significantly inhibited serum histamine levels induced by compound 48/80. Cytochalasin D (10(-1) microg g-1 BW) also inhibited local anaphylaxis activated by anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE to 79.6+/-1.8%. Cytochalasin D dose-dependently inhibited histamine release from the rat peritoneal mast cells activated by compound 48/80 or anti-DNP IgE. The level of cAMP in rat peritoneal mast cells, when cytochalasin D was added, transiently and significantly increased about fourfold compared with that of basal cells. Our studies provide evidence that cytochalasin D will be beneficial in the treatment of anaphylaxis.

Chromosomes of mouse primary spermatocytes undergo meiotic divisions after incorporation into homologous immature oocytes

The primary spermatocytes used were male germ cells at prophase I. The present study was undertaken to see whether bivalent chromosomes of mouse primary spermatocytes can undergo meiotic divisions within maturing oocytes and participate in subsequent embryonic development. Primary spermatocytes (pachytene to diplotene) freshly collected from the testes of mature males were electrofused with immature oocytes shortly before or after germinal vesicle breakdown. After culture in MEM-alpha medium for 15 h, most (> 90%) of the oocytes containing spermatocyte chromosomes underwent maturation and arrested at metaphase II (MII). Among 23 MII oocytes examined, 17 (74%) had one group of chromosomes and one polar body, indicating that male chromosomes had intermingled with those of the females and completed the first meiotic division. Chromosome analyses of these MII oocytes demonstrated their diploidy. The metaphase chromosomes were transferred to enucleated MII oocytes freshly recovered from superovulated mice. After artificial activation, the reconstructed MII oocytes resumed meiosis and developed to the morula/blastocyst stage. However, no pups were born following embryo transfer into recipient females. These findings indicate that the chromosomes of primary spermatocytes undergo meiotic divisions in maturing oocytes and participate in the formation of diploid embryos.

Antianaphylactic activity of Poncirus trifoliata fruit extract

The effect of an aqueous extract of Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf. (Rutaceae) fruits (PTFE) on compound 48/80-induced mortality associated with anaphylaxis was studied in rats. PTFE inhibited compound 48/80-induced anaphylaxis 100% with a dose of 1.6 mg/g body weight (BW) 1 h before or 5 min after injection of compound 48/80. PTFE inhibited compound 48/80-induced anaphylaxis almost 100% with doses above 0.4 mg/g BW intraperitoneally administered. PTFE (1-1000 micrograms/ml) also dose-dependently inhibited the histamine release induced by compound 48/80 (5 micrograms/ml) in rat peritoneal mast cells. The level of cAMP in peritoneal mast cells, when PTFE was added, increased transiently, and significantly increased 53-fold at 10 s compared with that of basal cells. Moreover, PTFE inhibited intracellular calcium release induced by compound 48/80. These results suggest that PTFE has antianaphylactic activity by stabilizing the peritoneal mast cell membrane.

Inhibition of histamine synthesis by glycyrrhetinic acid in mast cells cocultured with Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts

The effect of glycyrrhetinic acid (18-O-beta-glycyrrhetinic acid, GA) on histamine metabolism was investigated in cultured mast cells (CMCs) cocultured with Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. GA strongly inhibited histamine synthesis in the cocultured CMCs. Since 50 microM GA inhibited about 80% of histidine decarboxylase (HDC) activity, the inhibitory activity of GA for histamine synthesis was considered to be derived from the inhibition of HDC activity. The number of berberine-sulfate-positive cells also decreased in the presence of GA, which indicated that maturation of CMCs was inhibited by GA. Furthermore, we examined the effect of GA on the mRNA expression of novel protein kinase C delta (nPKC delta), a major isoform of CMCs, by northern blot analysis. The expression of nPKC delta mRNA in the presence of GA was significantly lower than in the absence of GA. These results suggest the possibility that the inhibition of histamine synthesis by GA is regulated by nPKC delta.