Several studies have demonstrated that herbal extracts possess various biological effects
including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. The present study was aimed to
investigate the protective effects of the
early allergic sensitized mice induced by ovalbumin.
Phytochemical assay was used to recognize the main active constituents in the AG
hydroalcoholic extract. Mice were immunized with subcutaneous injection of ovalbumin and
aluminum hydroxide. Efficiency of sensitization was assessed by serum IgE levels and
eosinophil count. After sensitization, two doses of extract (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) were
injected intrapritoneally.
On day 14, mice were challenged with intrapritoneal injection of ovalbumin. IL-4 and
IFN2 levels in broncoalveolar lavage fluid, which had been collected on day 15, were
assessed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit.
Our results indicate two main active constituents including flavonoids and terpenoids are
present in the AG hydroalcoholic extract. Intrapritoneal injection of the AG hydroalcoholic
extract was able to decrease IL-4 and increase IFN2. It seems the AG hydroalcoholic extract
has the potential to modulate the balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines in allergy.
Astragalus gypsicolus (AG) hydroalcoholic extract in