Silkworm dropping extract regulates food allergy symptoms via inhibition of Th2-related responses in an ovalbumin-induced food allergy model

BACKGROUND Silkworm droppings have long been used in traditional medicine to remedy allergic itching, palsy, blood circulation problems, and arthritis in Asian countries. To investigate the anti-allergic effect of silkworm dropping extract (SDE) and its mechanism, we used a mouse model of food allergy induced by ovalbumin (OVA). RESULTS SDE ameliorated the symptoms of OVA-induced food allergies, and the levels of T helper 2 (Th2)-related cytokines [such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13] were found to be significantly decreased in both the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes by SDE. Furthermore, SDE treatment directly inhibited OVA permeation, IL-4 production, and degranulation of mast cells; in contrast, immunoglobulin E (IgE) production from B cells was not affected. CONCLUSION These results suggest that SDE has potential anti-allergic activities, and SDE may be useful in the treatment/prevention of allergic disorders such as food allergies, serving as therapeutic agents. (c) 2019 Society of Chemical Industry