Immune-Modulatory Effects of Bu-Zhong-Yi-Qi-Tang in Ovalbumin-Induced Murine Model of Allergic Asthma

Abstract

BackgroundBu-zhong-yi-qi-tang (BZYQT), an herbal formula of traditional Chinese medicine, has been an effective regimen of allergic diseases for nearly 800 years. Our previous report has demonstrated its anti-inflammatory effects in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis, and the aim of this study is to investigate the anti-asthmatic effect of BZYQT.MethodsFemale BALB/cByJNarl mice were sensitized with normal saline (control group) or OVA. Mice sensitized by OVA were fed with distilled water (OVA group), oral 0.5 g/Kg (low-dose group) or 1 g/Kg (high-dose group) of BZYQT solution once daily on days 36-40 besides their routine diet. Airway hyper-responsiveness (AHR), eosinophil infiltration, levels of cytokines and total immunoglobulin E (IgE) in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were determined. The lungs and tracheas were removed, and histopathologic examination was subsequently performed.ResultsAHR was significantly reduced in both low- and high-dose BZYQT groups compared with the OVA group after inhalation of the highest dose of methacholine (50 mg/ml). The levels of eotaxin, Th2-related cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13), IgE, and eosinophil infiltration in BALF were significantly decreased in both BZYQT groups compared with the OVA group. Histopathologic examination revealed that eosinophil infiltration of the lung and trachea tissues was remarkably attenuated in both BZYQT groups.ConclusionsOral administration of BZYQT solution may exert anti-asthmatic effect by relieving AHR in OVA-sensitized mice, which is compatible with our clinical experience. Although detailed mechanism is to be determined, we surmise that it may be correlated with the immune-modulatory effects of inhibiting Th2 responses on the basis of our limited results.

Effects of <i>tMa-Xin-Di-Tan</i> decoction on ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma in mice

“…Th1/Th2 balance is recognized as an important mediator of asthma; modulation of Th1/Th2 balance is thus considered beneficial for the treatment of asthma [2,14,15]. The present study revealed that after treatment with MXDT, increased levels of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-6) were downregulated, whereas decreased levels of the Th1 cytokine IFN-γ was upregulated, suggesting that MXDT can modulate Th1/Th2 balance.…”

Hochu-Ekki-to Treatment Improves Reproductive and Immune Modulation in the Stress-Induced Rat Model of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

“…Hochu-ekki-to has been reported to reduce complaints of general fatigue caused by common colds, and to improve severe weakness. Many studies have shown that it has various immunoactive effects, such as increasing immunity in elderly persons [6], augmenting natural killer cell activity [16], and increasing the production of cytokines [17]. In this study, the ACTH injection and coldstress groups both showed significant increases in their mRNA expression levels of glucocorticoid receptor (GR), IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ and concentrations of corticosterone, compared to the corresponding control groups (Fig.…”

Herbal medicine (Bojungikki-tang) for allergic rhinitis

“…[ 20 ] It has been known as a herbal prescription for treating digestive disorders or conditions involving alternating cold and heat, such as malaria, for hundreds of years. [ 20 , 21 ] In recent research, anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects of Bojungikki-tang have been revealed in animal experiments [ 22 , 23 ] and clinical trials. [ 24 , 25 ] These effects will also be beneficial for alleviating allergic symptoms.…”