Picroside I inhibits asthma phenotypes by regulating T-bet/GATA-3 ratio and Th1/Th2 balance in a murine model of asthma

摘要

Purpose: To examine the anti-asthmatic activity of picroside I in murine asthma model, and to elucidate the mechanism(s) involved. Methods: The study involved systematic sensitization of acclimatized BALB/c mice with ovalbumin (OVA), and subsequent exposure to aerosol allergens. The effect of picroside I on associated IgE formation was determined. All assays were performed using standard protocols. Protein ex pression was assessed using western blotting. Results: Picroside I inhibited allergic airway inflammation, AHR, and the production of OVA-associated IgE and Th2 cytokines. Moreover, it altered the T-bet/GATA3 ratio by suppressing the phosphorylation of STAT6 in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: These results indicate that the anti-asthmatic effect of picroside I occurs via a mechanism involving inhibition of Th2 cytokines by suppression of the ex pressions of pSTAT6 and GATA-3, and upregulation of the ex pression of T-bet. Thus, picroside I is a promising agent for the management of asthma.