Effects of Elm Bark (Ulmus davidiana var. japonica) extracts on modulation of immunocompetence in mice

Abstract

Ulmus davidiana var japonica (Elm bark) has been traditionally used for many medicine purposes as diuretic, laxative, or cure for insomnia and gastrointestinal disorders. Recently, its anti-inflammation response, antioxidant activity and anticancer activity have been reported. In order to elucidate its effect in vitro and in vivo, proliferation of splenocytes and the production capacity of cytokines (IL-1beta, IL-6 and TNF-alpha) by mice peritoneal macrophage were used as indices for immune activity. Splenocytes proliferation and cell viability of peritoneal macrophages was increased in the range of 1~500 §¶/§¢ and polar fractions such as butanol and water. Significantly higher levels of the production of all three cytokines were detected with supplementation of methanol fraction compared to those of other fraction. In vivo, Elm bark water extract was orally administrated every other day for 2 weeks. Splenocytes proliferation of Elm bark with LPS or con A stimulation was enhanced at 500 §¶/§¢ b.w concentrations compared to that of control group. In case of cytokine, the highest production of IL-6 and TNF-¥á was detected at 500 §·/§¸ b.w concentrations. In conclusion, this study suggests that Ulmus davidiana var japonica (Elm bark) extracts may enhance the immunocompetence such as splenocyte proliferation and cytokine production capacity by activated macrophages in mice through in vitro and in vivo experiments.