Eupatilin suppresses the allergic inflammatory response in vitro and in vivo

Introduction: Eupatilin, a pharmacologically active ingredient found in Artemisia asiatica, has been reported to have anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities. However, molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-allergic properties are not yet clear. In this study, we investigated the effects of eupatilin on allergic inflammation in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI)-stimulated human mast cells and a compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic shock model. Methods: Cytokine assays, histamine assays, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, western blot analysis and compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic shock model were used in this study. Results: Eupatilin significantly suppresses the expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-6 in vitro and in vivo. In addition, eupatilin inhibits nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation by regulating the phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα via the Akt/IKK(α/β) pathway. Eupatilin treatment also attenuates the phosphorylation of p38, ERK, and JNK MAPKs. Furthermore, eupatilin blocked anaphylactic shock and decreased the release of histamine. Conclusions: Anti-allergic inflammation may involve the expression and production of regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines via Akt/IKK(α/β) and MAPK activation of NF-κB. On the basis of these data, eupatilin is a potential candidate for the treatment of allergic diseases.