Microarray analysis of the gene expression profile of HMC-1 mast cells following Schizonepeta tenuifolia Briquet treatment

It has long been believed that mast cells play a crucial role in the development of many physiological changes during immediate allergic responses. This study was conducted to evaluate the anti-inflammation mechanism of Schizonepeta tenuifolia (ST) extract and ST purified chemicals on the PMA plus A23187-induced stimulation of HMC-1 human mast cells. ST, rosmarinic acid, pulegone, and 2α,3α,24-thrihydrooxylen-12en-28oic acid treatment of HMC-1 cells led to significant suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) in a dose dependent manner. In addition, the results of the microarray and real-time RT-PCR analyses revealed that ST regulates several pathways, including the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction (CCRI), MAPK, and the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways. ST may be useful for the treatment of inflammation disease via anti-inflammation activity that occurs through inhibition of the CCRI, MAPK, and TLR signaling pathways.

► Schizonepeta tenuifolia (ST) extract and ST purified chemicals have anti-inflammation activity. ► ST purified chemicals were found to inhibit the secretion of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 by human mast cells. ► ST and rosmarinic acid exerted similar effects against inflammation. ► ST may have anti-inflammation activity that occurs via inhibition of the Toll-like and MAPK signaling pathways.