Protective effect of isopimpinellin on ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation and oxidative stress in mouse model of asthma.

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a chronic airway disease characterized by immunological dysregulation that causes sustained inflammation, leading to aberrant airway narrowing and mucus production. Isopimpinellin (IP) is a naturally occurring furanocoumarin, generated by an association of coumarin and a furan ring, possessing antifungal, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties; however, its potential in asthma treatment has not been investigated. This study sought to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of IP in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced murine model of asthma.

METHODS

Mice were grouped into four groups (n = 8 per group): control, OVA, and IP-treated (35 and 70 mg/kg). At the end of the experiment, lung oxidative stress, inflammation, and histopathological changes were evaluated.

RESULTS

IP treatment significantly ameliorated airway oxidative stress by decreasing the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) and increasing the levels of antioxidants, including glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx); reduced inflammatory cell infiltration; mitigated histological changes; and decreased levels of IL-4, IL-13, and IgE. Additionally, IP prevented NF-κB phosphorylation. This study is the first examination of the anti-asthmatic properties of IP in allergic asthma in murine models.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that IP may function as an anti-asthmatic medication via regulating oxidative stress and inflammation.