Inhibitory effects of Schizandra chinensis extract on atopic dermatitis in NC/Nga mice

Abstract

Context: Schizandra chinensis Baillon (SC) is traditionally used as a medicinal plant in the Orient. Recently, SC has become recognized as an adaptogen by the mainstream medical community. Phytoadaptogens influence respiratory, cardiovascular, uterus myotonic, and immune activities. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an allergic inflammatory skin disease caused by aberrant and over-reactive immune responses.

Objective: This study assessed the suppressive effect of SC extract (SCE) on 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB)-induced AD in a NC/Nga mouse model.

Materials and methods: AD was induced by topically applying 0.2% DNCB to the hairless-back of NC/Nga mice for 4 weeks. Treated mice received SCE or dexamethasone after AD induction.

Results: SCE markedly suppressed DNCB-induced dermatitis, as determined by a count of scratching frequency; measurement of IgE, IgM, and histamine levels in serum; and histological observation of epidermal hyperplasia and mast-cell infiltration. Additionally, SCE lessened DNCB-induced histamine receptor mRNA expression in skin tissue and the splenic expressions of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and high-affinity IgE receptor B protein.

Conclusion: SCE appears useful for suppression of AD, even though the active pathway(s) remain unknown.

Keywords::

• Schizandra chinensis extract (SCE)
• atopic dermatitis (AD)
• NC/Nga mouse
• immunoglobulin E (IgE)
• Histamine

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by Research Grants of Mungyeong Agricultural Technology Center and the Dongguk University Research Fund of 2011

Declaration of interest

The authors declare that they have no potential conflicts of interest.