Anti-inflammatory activity of methyl palmitate and ethyl palmitate in different experimental rat models

Methyl palmitate (MP) and ethyl palmitate (EP) are naturally occurring fatty acid esters reported as inflammatory cell inhibitors. In the current study, the potential anti-inflammatory activity of MP and EP was evaluated in different experimental rat models. Results showed that MP and EP caused reduction of carrageenan-induced rat paw edema in addition to diminishing prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) level in the inflammatory exudates. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia in rats, MP and EP reduced plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). MP and EP decreased NF-κB expression in liver and lung tissues and ameliorated histopathological changes caused by LPS. Topical application of MP and EP reduced ear edema induced by croton oil in rats. In the same animal model, MP and EP reduced neutrophil infiltration, as indicated by decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of MP and EP in combating inflammation in several experimental models.

► Efficacy of MP and EP in combating inflammation was displayed in several models.
► MP and EP reduced carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and prostaglandin E2 level.
► MP and EP decreased TNF-α and IL-6 levels in experimental endotoxemia.
► MP and EP reduced NF-κB expression and histological changes in rat liver and lung.
► MP and EP reduced croton oil-induced ear edema and neutrophil infiltration.