Tongkyutang inhibits mast cell-dependent allergic reactions and inflammatory cytokines secretion

Abstract Background : Tongkyutang (TKT) is an Oriental herbal prescription, which has been successfully applied for the treatment of allergic disorders, mainly allergic-rhinitis in clinical medicine. However, its effect in experimental models remains unknown. Methods : In a mouse model, the role of TKT was examined in mast cell-dependent allergic reactions and secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Results : TKT concentration-dependently inhibited the ear-swelling response induced by intradermal injection of compound 48/80. TKT inhibited the compound 48/80-induced degranulation from mast cells in ear tissue. TKT dose-dependently inhibited the histamine release from the rat peritoneal mast cells by compound 48/80. TKT also showed inhibition of anti-dinitrophenyl IgE antibody-induced passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction by oral administration. Furthermore, TKT inhibited both IL-1β and TNF-α secretion induced by PMA and A23187, respectively. Conclusions : Our findings provide evidence that TKT inhibits the mast cell-dependent allergic reactions and inflammatory cytokines secretion.