Search Results (365)

Quercetin, a natural polyphenolic flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-allergic properties, is extensively found in foods and holds significant importance for human health. In this study, a simple switch-off fluorescent sensor based on copper nanoclusters (Cu NCs) was proposed for the sensitive determination of quercetin. Glutathione acted as the reducing and protective agent in the synthesized process of Cu NCs via a facile, green one-pot method. As anticipated, the glutathione-capped Cu NCs (GSH-Cu NCs) exhibited favorable water solubility and ultrasmall size. The fluorescence property of GSH-Cu NCs was further enhanced with Al³⁺ ion through the aggregation-induced emission effect. When quercetin was present in the sample solution, the system exhibited effective fluorescence quenching, which was attributed to the internal filter effect. The GSH-Cu NCs/Al³⁺-based fluorescent sensor showed a good linear relationship to quercetin in the concentration range from 0.1 to 60 μM. A detection limit of 24 nM was obtained. Moreover, the constructed sensor was employed for the successful determination of quercetin in tea samples. Full article

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent allergic disorder characterized by a complex pathogenesis. Drawing on traditional Chinese medicine theory and contemporary pharmacological principles, this study developed an inhalation-based herbal formulation, ZHW, to explore a novel non-invasive therapeutic approach. Objective: To investigate the therapeutic effects of ZHW on AR and elucidate its underlying mechanisms and potential targets through an integrated analysis of network pharmacology and proteomics. Materials and Methods: The volatile components of ZHW were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The mouse model of AR was induced by OVA sensitization. The therapeutic efficacy of ZHW was assessed based on nasal symptom scores, histopathological examination, and inflammatory cytokine levels. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms and potential targets of ZHW were investigated through integrated network pharmacology and proteomics analyses. Results: GC-MS analysis identified 39 bioactive compounds in ZHW. Inhalation treatment with ZHW demonstrated significant anti-allergic effects in OVA-sensitized mice, as evidenced by (1) reduced sneezing frequency and nasal rubbing behaviors; (2) decreased serum levels of IL-4, histamine, and OVA-specific IgE; (3) attenuated IL-4 concentrations in both nasal lavage fluid and lung tissue; (4) diminished nasal mucosal thickening; and (5) suppression of inflammatory cell infiltration. Integrated network pharmacology and proteomics analyses indicated that ZHW’s therapeutic effects were mediated through the modulation of multiple pathways, including the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, the B cell receptor signaling pathway, oxidative phosphorylation, and the FcεRI signaling pathway. Key molecular targets involved Rac1, MAPK1, and SYK. Molecular docking simulations revealed strong binding affinities between ZHW’s primary bioactive constituents (linalool, levomenthol, linoleic acid, Linoelaidic acid, and n-Valeric acid cis-3-hexenyl ester) and these target proteins. Conclusions: The herbal formulation ZHW demonstrates significant efficacy in alleviating allergic rhinitis symptoms through multi-target modulation of key signaling pathways, including PI3K-Akt- and FcεRI-mediated inflammatory responses. These findings substantiate ZHW’s therapeutic potential as a novel, non-invasive treatment for AR and provide a strong basis for the development of new AR therapies. Future clinical development will require systematic safety evaluation to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes. Full article

Low-molecular-weight polypeptides (<3 kDa) were prepared from Periplaneta americana via enzymatic hydrolysis and ultrafiltration, yielding 3.53 ± 0.01 mg/g of peptide-rich extract. The extract was primarily composed of peptides, proteins, polysaccharides, phenolics, and flavonoids. HPLC-MS analysis identified 1402 peptide sequences, 80.51% of which were below 1000 Da, predominantly consisting of tri-, tetra-, and octapeptides. Monosaccharide profiling detected D-(+)-galactose, and quantitative assays determined the contents of total phenolics (12.28 mg/g), flavonoids (15.50 mg/g), proteins (85.84 mg/g), and total sugars (17.62 mg/g). The biological activities of the extract were systematically evaluated. The peptide fraction inhibited hyaluronidase activity by 58% at 5 mg/mL, suggesting protection of extracellular matrix integrity. In HaCaT keratinocytes, it promoted cell proliferation by 62.6%, accelerated scratch wound closure by 54%, upregulated Wnt-10b and β-catenin expression, and reduced intracellular ROS levels under oxidative stress. In LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, the extract decreased TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β production by 30%, 25%, and 28%, respectively, reduced MDA levels by 35.2%, and enhanced CAT and SOD activities by 12.3% and 60.3%. In vivo, complete closure of full-thickness skin wounds in mice was achieved by day 14. Safety evaluations using the chick chorioallantoic membrane assay and human patch tests confirmed the extract to be non-irritating and non-toxic. These findings highlight Periplaneta americana extract as a promising multifunctional bioactive ingredient for cosmetic and dermatological applications. Further studies on its active components, mechanisms of action, and clinical efficacy are warranted to support its development in skin health and aesthetic medicine. Full article

This study aimed to design self-adhesive cutaneous films with an antiallergic effect using a Design of Experiments approach. The active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) was diphenhydramine hydrochloride (DPH). A full factorial experimental design with three factors and two levels was created. The factors were the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) ratio, the polyacrylic acid (PAA) ratio, and the type of plasticizer. The responses evaluated were hardness, deformation at hardness, adhesive force, and in vitro DPH release profile. Eleven formulations were generated, prepared in two steps via solvent casting, and characterized in terms of mechanical and adhesive properties, as well as the in vitro DPH release profile. The PVA ratio had the most significant impact on the responses, followed by PEG 400 and PEG 4000. Four film formulations were investigated using Raman spectroscopy, which revealed that the API was distributed in both the base and adhesive layers. Consequently, an optimal formulation was prepared and characterized. Good mechanical properties (a hardness of 463.7 g and a deformation at hardness of 16.56 mm) and an increased adhesive force (76 g) were observed, while the DPH was released up to 68% over 12 h. In conclusion, a novel self-adhesive film was developed, which may enhance patients’ adherence to local antiallergic treatment. Full article

Background/Objectives: Allergens can trigger severe immune responses in hypersensitive individuals, with mast cells releasing inflammatory mediators via IgE-FcɛRI signaling. Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) is a key regulator in this pathway, making it a promising therapeutic target. Natural modulators of Syk-mediated mast cell activation remain underexplored. This study investigated the anti-allergic effects of a 70% ethanol extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza (SME) using in vitro and in vivo models. Methods: SME was evaluated using IgE-sensitized RBL-2H3 cells, a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis model, and a DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis-like mouse model. Allergic responses were assessed via degranulation assays, histopathology, serum IgE levels, and the spleen index. Results: SME significantly inhibited mast cell degranulation by 44.4 ± 1.6% in RBL-2H3 cells at 100 µg/mL following 30 min of treatment compared to the untreated control. Western blot analysis demonstrated dose-dependent suppression of protein kinase B (PKB, also known as AKT), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) phosphorylation, indicating inhibition of key allergic signaling pathways. In an IgE/Ag-induced passive cutaneous anaphylaxis model in ICR mice, SME (100 mg/kg, orally) significantly attenuated vascular permeability, as evidenced by a 20.6 ± 9.7% reduction in Evans blue extravasation relative to the Ag-treated group. In a 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD)-like model, six treatments of SME significantly improved the skin condition, reduced spleen enlargement associated with allergic inflammation, and decreased serum IgE levels by 43.3 ± 11.2% compared to the DNCB group. Conclusions: These findings suggest that SME may help to alleviate allergic responses and AD by modulating key immune signaling pathways. Full article

Naturally occurring plant-based compounds are increasingly being explored for their therapeutic potential in treating a wide range of conditions, particularly those related to vascular health. The compound 3-deoxysappanchalcone (3-DSC), derived from Caesalpinia sappan L., has been proven to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-influenza, and anti-allergic properties, though its role in thrombosis and haemostasis remains unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-thrombotic potential of 3-DSC in both in vitro and in vivo models. The anticoagulant activities of 3-DSC were assessed using activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time (PT), and thrombin (FIIa) and activated factor X (FXa) activity assays, as well as fibrin polymerization and platelet aggregation tests. Its effects on plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) and tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) expression were evaluated in TNF-α-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The results demonstrated that 3-DSC extended aPTT and PT, suppressed thrombin and FXa activities, reduced their production in HUVECs, inhibited thrombin-induced fibrin polymerization and platelet aggregation, and exerted anticoagulant effects in mice. Furthermore, 3-DSC significantly decreased the PAI-1 to t-PA ratio. These findings suggest that 3-DSC possesses potent anti-thrombotic properties by modulating coagulation pathways and fibrinolysis. Its therapeutic potential warrants further investigation for the development of novel anticoagulant agents. Full article

This review studies the potential relationship between the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR) and otitis media with effusion (OME) in both adults and children, applying the modified Bradford Hill criteria. While AR and OME are distinct conditions, several epidemiological and experimental studies suggest a significant association, primarily through allergic mechanisms such as Th-2 immune responses, Eustachian tube dysfunction, and inflammatory mediators in the middle ear. Given the substantial diversity and, in many instances, the “low quality” of related studies when assessed against the standards of modern evidence-based medicine, employing a structured framework like the modified Bradford Hill criteria is beneficial for investigating and establishing causality. This approach, which allows a wide range of diverse studies to be classified as direct, mechanistic, or parallel evidence, supports the notion that management of the allergic immune response may improve OME outcomes, although the inconsistencies among studies require further research. Despite current guidelines recommending against the use of antiallergic medications, the application of the above criteria suggests that proper diagnosis and treatment of allergic rhinitis should be strongly considered in adults and children with OME. Full article

Kujigamberol, a dinorlabdane compound isolated from Kuji amber, exerts multiple biological effects, including anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities. The present study demonstrated that kujigamberol inhibited cytokine production by T cells. In response to a phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and ionomycin (IM) stimulation, kujigamberol suppressed interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) mRNA expression in murine T-cell lymphoma BW5147 cells stably transfected with the T-box transcription factor eomesodermin. IL-4 and Fas ligand mRNA expression was also inhibited by kujigamberol. In the murine cytotoxic T-cell line CTLL-2, kujigamberol more strongly decreased IFN-γ mRNA expression induced by IM alone than that induced by the combination of PMA and IM. A luciferase reporter assay showed that kujigamberol preferentially reduced nuclear factor of activated T cell (NFAT)-dependent transcription in human embryonic kidney 293T cells. Unlike the calcineurin inhibitor FK506, kujigamberol did not markedly affect NFATc2 protein levels in BW5147 cells but interfered with the binding of NFATc2 to the IFN-γ and IL-2 promoters. These results indicate that kujigamberol inhibited IFN-γ and IL-2 mRNA expression by preventing the binding of NFATc2 to their promoters; therefore, it has potential as an immunosuppressive agent. Full article

Background/Objectives: Phytochemicals are increasingly recognized for their therapeutic potential in treating various diseases, including vascular disorders. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a key mediator of late-stage sepsis, triggers the release of proinflammatory cytokines, leading to inflammation and systemic complications. Elevated plasma levels of HMGB1 impair diagnosis and prognosis while worsening outcomes in inflammatory conditions. 3-deoxysappanchalcone (3-DSC), a compound derived from Biancaea sappan (L.) Tod., has demonstrated anti-influenza and anti-allergic effects, though its role in HMGB1-mediated severe vascular inflammation remains unclear. This study hypothesized that 3-DSC could modulate lipopolysaccharide-induced HMGB1 activity and its downstream inflammatory pathways in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Methods: In vitro and in vivo permeability; cell viability, adhesion, and excavation of leukocytes; the development of cell adhesion molecules; and lastly, the production of proinflammatory substances were investigated on human endothelial cells and mouse disease models to investigate the efficacy of 3-DSC in inflammatory conditions. Results: Experiments revealed that 3-DSC inhibited HMGB1 translocation from HUVECs, reduced neutrophil adhesion and extravasation, suppressed HMGB1 receptor formation, and blocked nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) synthesis. Conclusions: These findings suggest that 3-DSC effectively mitigates HMGB1-driven inflammation, offering promise as a therapeutic candidate for inflammatory diseases. Full article

Childhood obesity is a growing global health issue. Its rising prevalence is linked to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Obesity in children could lead to different comorbidities and complications with an increased risk of metabolic disorders, such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). First-line treatment involves dietary modifications and lifestyle changes; however, adherence is often poor and remains a significant challenge. Pharmacotherapy, while a potential option, has limitations in availability and can cause side effects, leading to growing interest in alternative treatments, such as nutraceutical compounds. Derived from natural sources, these compounds have different anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, neuroprotective, antiaging, antitumor, insulin-sensitizing, glucose, and lipid-lowering effects. This review describes commonly used nutraceutical compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, polyphenols (such as resveratrol and curcumin), berberine, white mulberry leaves and others, and pre- and probiotics in the management of obesity, evaluating the evidence on their mechanisms of action and efficacy in metabolic comorbidities. The evidence suggests that the integration of nutraceuticals into the diet may positively influence body mass index, glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, and gut microbiota composition and reduce inflammation in obese individuals. These effects may provide future practical guidance for clinical practice, contribute to metabolic health improvement, and potentially prevent obesity-related complications. In this first part, we discuss the effects of nutraceutical compounds on insulin sensitivity and insulin resistance, T2DM, dyslipidemia, and MASLD in addition to diet and lifestyle interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: The Wikstroemia genus has been traditionally used in Asia to treat various ailments, including parotitis, pneumonia, and pertussis. These plants contain many bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, coumarins, and lignans. This study investigates the chemical components of a MeOH extract of the aerial parts of Wikstroemia trichotoma (Thunb.) Makino and evaluates their anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects in vitro. Methods: Chromatographic techniques, spectroscopic analysis, and the literature were used to isolate compounds from the branches and leaves of W. trichotoma. IL-4 mRNA and β-hexosaminidase levels were assessed by performing assays on RBL-2H3 cells to evaluate anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic potential. Results: Forty-two compounds were isolated from the W. trichotoma extract, and the flavanones trichotocinol A and B were newly identified. Screening of isolated compounds showed that several significantly inhibited DNP-BSA-induced β-hexosaminidase release by 10.0–58.0% and PMA/ionomycin-induced IL-4 mRNA expression by 25.3–71.7% versus negative controls. In addition, trichotocinol A reduced IL-4 mRNA expression by 31.9%. Conclusions: The discovery of these new compounds contributes to our understanding of the bioactive properties of W. trichotoma and suggests their potential use as natural therapeutic agents for inflammatory disorders. Full article

Cow milk allergy (CMA) is prevalently observed among infants and young children, exerting adverse effects on their growth and quality of life. Oral immune tolerance (OIT) is a more effective method for the prevention and treatment of CMA. The site of OIT is mainly in the gastrointestinal tract, so this article reviews the composition and structural characteristics of intestinal immune system, the molecular mechanisms of immune tolerance by regulatory T cells (Treg), dendritic cells, and gut microbiota. In addition, this paper summarizes the research progress of T cell epitope peptides of β-lactoglobulin and α-lactalbumin in whey protein hydrolysates. The mechanism of OIT induced by whey protein hydrolysate or whey protein combined with other anti-allergic components (phenolic compounds, probiotics, etc.) is overviewed to provide new ideas for the development of hypoallergenic infant formula. Full article

Quercetin, a natural flavonoid, present in various vegetables and fruits, has garnered increasing attraction for its potential antiallergic properties. Its broad-spectrum activity depends on its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant effects, which target the critical pathways involved in type 2-driven allergic inflammation. Quercetin inhibits mast cell degranulation, reduces the production of histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and restores homeostasis of the immune system by modulating the Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 balances. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to dampen oxidative stress, a critical factor in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases. In vitro studies have consistently demonstrated quercetin’s ability to suppress allergic reactions. In contrast, in vivo studies, particularly in murine models of allergic rhinitis, have confirmed its efficacy in relieving symptoms (such as nasal itching, sneezing, rhinorrhea, and congestion) and dampening type 2 mucosal inflammation. Preclinical evidence also supports its therapeutic potential in asthma, conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies. However, human studies are still scarce, as only two clinical trials investigated quercetin as a monotherapy. Both studies reported promising results, including symptom reduction and improved quality of life, though larger, randomized trials are needed to validate these findings. Some other studies have investigated multicomponent products that also contain quercetin. This review aimed to report and discuss the most recent in vitro and in vivo evidence on quercetin’s application in allergic models. It also provides a comprehensive overview of human studies, highlighting its potential as an agent in food supplements to manage patients with allergic diseases. Moreover, this review introduces a new quercetin phospholipids formulation that may represent a keystone in clinical use. The literature search was based on a PubMed consultation considering the most recent (last five years) publications using the keywords “quercetin and allergic disease” and “quercetin and immune system”. Full article

Canine atopic dermatitis (AD) is a T-cell-driven inflammatory skin disease, characterized by an imbalance between the Th1 and Th2 immune responses. Probiotics (live bacteria) and postbiotics (inactivated, killed bacteria) have garnered attention for the management of AD in humans and dogs. Both probiotics and postbiotics possess immunomodulating properties that could be beneficial for allergic patients. This study aims to evaluate the immunomodulating effects of Tyndallized (heat-killed) postbiotics of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which are active components of the Linkskin products (Nextmune, Palazzo Pignano, Cremona, Italy). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from healthy dogs and incubated separately with each postbiotic. The cytokine levels in the supernatants were measured before and after 12, 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation. Both Tyndallized lactobacilli significantly increased the levels of IL-12 and IFN-γ (Th1 cytokines) and IL-10 (associated with T regulatory cells), while the levels of the Th2 cytokine IL-4 remained stable. Overall, these two Lactobacillus postbiotics stimulated canine PBMCs to produce a cytokine profile typically associated with an anti-allergic response. Further studies are needed to evaluate the benefit of these postbiotics as an adjuvant for the reactive treatment or for the prevention of relapses of allergic flares in atopic dogs. Full article