Resp-Aid in Ova-challenged mice decreased airway inflammatory cell infiltration, AHR and IL-13 cytokine expression levels

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Asthma is an inflammatory disease caused by repeated immediate phase hypersensitivity and late-phase allergic reactions in the lungs. Resp-Aid is a formula composed of 9 medicinal herbs that supports in the resolution of respiratory disorders (Coltsfoot, Marshamallow, Plantain, Mullein, Horehound, Licorice, Lobelia, Ginger, and Myrrh). These herbs, alone, have shown positive effects in reducing symptoms associated with asthma. However, the effects of the combination of these herbs on asthma is not well understood. Therefore, we conducted a series of studies to explore the mechanism of action of Resp-Aid. Material and Methods C57Bl/6 male mice (n = 7 each group) were challenged with or without ovalbumin (OVA). After the challenge, they were divided into 4 groups where 2 groups received 1 drop of Resp-Aid twice daily for 7 days and 2 groups acted as control. On day 5 of the treatment with Resp-Aid the airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was measured. After the treatment with Resp-Aid, lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were collected and the cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-17a, IFNy), MPO and EPO were quantified. Results All OVA-challenged mice had increased AHR, leukocytes and cytokine levels compared to their respective controls showing the development of an asthmatic response. The Resp-Aid asthmatic groups had decreased AHR, IL-13, neutrophils and EPO levels compared to asthmatic mice. Conclusion This data show that Resp-Aid changed the immune response related to asthma, and it may be a potential target for therapeutic intervention in allergic lung disease or asthma.