Abstract

Aim: The present work was aimed at finding out the anti-allergic activity of ethanol extracts of Quisqualis indica Linn. (EEQI) by in-vitro and in-vivo murine models.

Background: Worldwide, the rise in the prevalence of allergic diseases has continued in the industrialized world for more than 50 years. About 0.05-2% of the population is estimated to experience anaphylaxis at some point in life. Quisqualis indica Linn in an ornamental plant that has been rarely used as a herbal medicine, however, the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids have been reported to possess anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and immunomodulatory activity, which have some pathological relevance with anaphylaxis.

Objective: The objective of the present research was to investigate, scientifically explore and understand the probable anti-anaphylactic mechanism of ethanol extracts of Quisqualis indica Linn. via different preclinical models.

Materials and Methods: In-vitro study was done on de-granulated mesenteric mast cells induced by compound 48/80 and in-vivo study was done by Passive Cutaneous Anaphylaxis (PCA) model. In the in-vitro study degranulated mesenteric cells were grouped into negative control (compound 48/80 treated), positive control (Disodium cromoglycate + 48/80 treated) and 3 test groups (EEQI 10 μg/ml + 48/80 treated, EEQI 50 μg/ml + 48/80 treated and EEQI 100 μg/ml + 48/80 treated). The number of degranulated mast cells was counted and compared within the different treatment groups. In the in-vivo study, the rats were first grouped into negative control (vehicle only), positive control (Disodium cromoglycate) and 2 test groups (EEQI: 100 and 200 mg/kilogram). The animals were pretreated for 12 days. On the 12th day, all the rats were immunized with serum anti-ovalbumin (obtained from an already sensitized rat) by the intradermal route. After 24 h of serum injection, Evans blue dye containing oval albumin was administered intravenously in all groups. Three days later, the rats were taken down for the severity of the anaphylactic reactions.

Results: EEQI significantly attenuates mast cell degranulation and maintains cell intactness as compared to control (P < 0.001). It was set up to support the degree of anaphylaxis as compared to the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: The outcomes of the work revealed the preventive effect of Quisqualis indica Linn. against allergic manifestations.

Keywords: Mesenteric mast cell, compound 48/80, passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, Quisqualis indica Linn., anti-allergic, in-vitro, in-vivo.