Leaf gel from several Aloe species shows anti-inflammatory properties through the inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mediated activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling

Abstract

BackgroundGel extracted from the succulent inner leaf mesophyll of species from the plant genus Aloe have been used in traditional medicine for centuries as a topical treatment for a wide range of skin conditions. Aim of the studyThe aim of this study was to investigate the potential anti-inflammatory properties of leaf gel from 23 different Aloe species. In this study we have focused on the pathways activated by the toll-like receptors TLR4 (activated by LPS), and TLR2/TLR6 (activated by FSL-1) by measuring transcriptional activity of NF-κB. Materials and methodsGel extractions from the inner leaf mesophyll material of 23 different Aloe species, pure acemannan obtained from Aloe vera, and pH. Eur. reference material from Aloe vera and Aloe ferox, were tested on the cell line J774-Dual. NF-κB activity was measured after 24 h. ResultsWe found that 8 out of the 23 tested Aloe gel extracts significantly decreased LPS-induced NF-κB-activity, but no significant effect was seen with FSL-1. ConclusionBased on these findings we can confirm that extracted gel from some of the tested Aloe species but not all, have anti-inflammatory properties.