Luteolin inhibits myelin basic protein‐induced human mast cell activation and mast cell‐dependent stimulation of Jurkat T cells

Abstract

Background and purpose: Allergic inflammation and autoimmune diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and multiple sclerosis (MS), involve both mast cell and T‐cell activation. However, possible interactions between the two and the mechanism of such activations are largely unknown. Experimental approach: Human umbilical cord blood‐derived cultured mast cells (hCBMCs) and Jurkat T cells were incubated separately or together, following activation with myelin basic protein (MBP), as well as with or without pretreatment with the flavonoid luteolin for 15 min. The supernatant fluid was assayed for inflammatory mediators released from mast cells and interleukin (IL)‐2 release from Jurkat cells. Key results: MBP (10 μM) stimulates hCBMCs to release IL‐6, IL‐8, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), histamine and tryptase (n=6, Pn=3, Pn=3, Pn=3–6, Pn=3, PBritish Journal of Pharmacology (2008) 155, 1076–1084; doi:10.1038/bjp.2008.356; published online 22 September 2008