[Anti-allergic effects of xuebijing and potential role of heme oxygenase-1 against ovalbumin-induced murine allergic rhinitis model].

In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammation effects of Xuebijing in OVA-induced murine allergic rhinitis model. Furthermore, we determined whether heme oxygenase (HO)-1 is required for the protective activity of Xuebijing.Airways of OVA-sensitized mice exposed to OVA challenge developed eosinophilia, mucus hypersecretion and increased cytokine levels. Levels of interleukin IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in nasal lavage fluid were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Lung tissue and nasal mucosa sections were stained with Mayer's hematoxylin and eosin for assessment of cell infiltration and mucus production, Immunohistochemistry, Real-time PCR and Western Blot analyses for HO-1 protein expression.Orally administered Xuebijing significantly inhibited the number of OVA-induced inflammatory cells and IgE production, along with reduced T-helper (Th) 2 cytokine levels, such as IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13, improved the level of IFN-gamma, in nasal lavage fluid. In addition, Xuebijing induced a marked decrease in OVA-induced inflammatory cell infiltration and mucus production in nasal and lung tissues. These effects were correlated with HO-1 mRNA and protein induction.Our results indicate that Xuebijing protects against OVA-induced airway inflammation, at least in part, via HO-1 upregulation.