Modulation of Mast Cell Function by Amino Acids In vitro: A Potential Mechanism of Immunonutrition for Wound Healing.

Abstract

Mast cells release important chemical mediators, such as histamine and interleukin (IL)-13, for the regulation of allergic reactions and inflammation. Recently, mast cell activation has been implicated in wound healing. Glutamine (Gln) and Arginine (Arg) are used as “immune nutrients” in severe infections and chronic wounds in malnourished patients, but the potential effect of these amino acids on mast cell activation is unclear. We evaluated the effect of Gln and / or Arg in culture on mast cell function. The murine mast cell line P815 was cultured in RPMI-1640 medium under different Gln and/or Arg concentrations and IL-6 stimulation. Histamine and IL-13 release into the supernatant was measured using enzyme-linked immunoassays. As a result, the amino acid concentrations affected cellular viability. Cells cultured in higher Gln concentrations produced a greater histamine response upon IL-6 stimulation while the histamine response in cells cultured in a high Arg concentration was suppressed. IL-13 production in the Gln containing medium was not significantly altered by IL-6 stimulation. In conclusion, in an inflammatory milieu, Gln and/or Arg concentrations in situ may regulate histamine and IL-13 release from mast cells. The appropriate use of functional amino acids as immune nutrients may suppress inflammation and aid in wound healing.