Effects of Hypericum perforatum extract on the endocrine immune network factors in the immunosuppressed Wistar rat

摘要

The study aimed to investigate the effects of Hypericum perforatum extract on the endocrine immune network factors in the immunosuppressed rat. Wistar rats were used to establish an immunosuppression model. Immunosuppressed rats received Hypericum perforatum extract suspension for 7 days at doses of 600 mg/kg (containing hyperforin at 7.2mg/kg). Endocrine immune network factors including IL-1, DA, NE, and 5-HT were determined on day 8. The results indicated that Hypericum perforatum extract affects the endocrine immune network through decreasing endogenous IL-1, dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels. Hyperforin reverses immune suppression through enhancing DA levels to inhibit B cells while promoting T cell and macrophage functions to recover immune function.