Anti-inflammatory effect of epigallocatechin gallate in a mouse model of ovalbumin-induced allergic rhinitis

- EGCG has a beneficial effect in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis.
- The beneficial effect is that EGCG can suppress the number of sneezes and the occurrence of nasal rubbing.
- A mechanism for improving symptom is associated with the decrease levels of IgE and histamine in serum.
- The beneficial effect is related to the decrease cytokines levels in nasal lavage fluid or in nasal mucosa tissue.

Currently, a variety of studies have demonstrated that green tea has anti-allergic properties, and the major polyphenolic compound, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), plays a significant role. Some research indicates that EGCG reduces the production and expression of allergy-related substances. Therefore, EGCG has a potential effect of reducing allergic rhinitis (AR). In this study, the effect of EGCG on allergic rhinitis in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced mouse model was investigated. After administration of EGCG, the number of sneezes and the occurrence of nasal rubbing were significantly decreased, the concentrations of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and histamine were suppressed in AR mouse serum, the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-4, and IL-6 were reduced in AR mice nasal lavage fluid (NLF), and the nasal mucosa mRNA and protein expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), IL-1β, IL-4, and IL-6 were inhibited. The data indicate that EGCG has a beneficial effect of reducing allergic rhinitis.