Anti-allergic activity of an ethanol extract of bunching onion (Allium fistulosum), a traditional vegetable from Osaka

Abstract

Introduction: The incidences of allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, asthma, and food allergies are rising in developed countries. Mast cells play critical roles in various biologic processes related to allergic diseases, including expressing the high-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin (Ig) E on their surface. The interaction of multivalent antigens with surface-bound IgE causes the secretion of granule-stored mediators, as well as the de novo synthesis of cytokines. These mediators and cytokines precede the development of allergic diseases. In Osaka Prefecture, Japan, certain locally cultivated crops have received ‘Naniwa-yasai’, a designation that certifies the significance of traditional vegetables in supporting Osaka’s agriculture and cuisine for over a century. In this study, we investigated the anti-allergic effects of four traditional vegetables from Osaka.Results: The anti-allergic activity of extracts made from Tanabe radish, Moriguchi radish, bunching onion (Allium fistulosum), and mizu eggplant were examined. Various concentrations of each extract were added to RBL-2H3 mast cells prior to stimulation with the calcium ionophore A23187. β-hexosaminidase release was markedly and dose dependently decreased in mast cells following the addition of A. fistulosum, demonstrating its anti-allergic activity. None of the other vegetables had an anti-allergic effect on RBL-2H3 cells.Conclusion: An Osakan traditional vegetable, bunching onion (Allium fistulosum), exhibited anti-allergic activity, and should be explored further as a possible treatment for allergic diseases.Keywords: mast cell, anti-allergy, traditional vegetables, bunching onion (Allium fistulosum)

Attenuation of allergenicity of roasted cod with Allium spp.: characterization of principal anti-allergenic constituent and action mechanism

“…for attenuating allergenic activity of roasted cod, which also agreed with a previous study demonstrating the anti-allergic activity of bunching onion ( Allium fistulosum ). 27 Moreover, the anti-allergenic effect appeared to significantly and inversely correlate with TAA and TPC. Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis in our recent study identified the principal phenolic constituents of the methanolic extract of Chinese chive.…”

Impact of green technology on content of bioactive components in eggplant

“…The health benefits and human immune response, conditioned by the content of bioactive compounds and their valuable features [10], which, in turn, play an important role in enhancing food functionality, depend on several factors [11][12][13].The way the fruit is used and how it is processed (raw, cooked, frozen), is one of the factors to be considered in estimating functionally [14] of different crops including eggplants.…”