How Meadowsweet Extract Activates Immune Cells and How It Works

Jenn Hoskins
13th June, 2024

How Meadowsweet Extract Activates Immune Cells and How It Works

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Korea University found that a component from Korean meadowsweet (FG-CWH) can boost immune responses
  • FG-CWH significantly increased the production of immune molecules like nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6 in macrophage cells
  • The immune-boosting effects of FG-CWH are linked to its high-molecular-weight arabinogalactan protein (AGP) content, which activates key immune signaling pathways
Korean meadowsweet (Filipendula glaberrima; FG) has been traditionally recognized for its medicinal properties. Recent research conducted by Korea University aimed to identify and characterize the macrophage-stimulatory components of this plant, which could potentially enhance human immunity[1]. This study builds on prior findings that highlighted the anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory properties of related species in the Filipendula genus[2][3]. The researchers prepared FG-CWH, a component derived from cool-water extraction and ethanol precipitation of FG. This component was found to induce significant secretion of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in RAW 264.7 cells, which are a type of macrophage cell line commonly used in immunological studies. These molecules are critical markers of immune response, indicating that FG-CWH has a potent immunostimulatory effect. Analytical results revealed that FG-CWH is a high-molecular-weight component, averaging 220 kDa, composed of a polysaccharide-protein mixture. Chemical and enzymatic analyses further identified FG-CWH as an arabinogalactan protein (AGP)-rich glycoprotein. AGPs are known for their bioactive properties, including immunomodulation. The study demonstrated that the immunostimulatory activity of FG-CWH is likely linked to the chemical and structural characteristics of AGP. The FG-CWH treatment resulted in significant, concentration-dependent increases in the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), TNF-α, and IL-6 genes. These genes play pivotal roles in the immune response, with iNOS being involved in the production of NO, a molecule that helps in pathogen destruction. The secretion of NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 was also significantly increased, even at lower concentrations of FG-CWH, compared to the negative control group. Immunoblotting analysis indicated that the macrophage stimulation induced by FG-CWH was significantly associated with the activation of MAPK (ERK, JNK, and p38) and NF-κB (p65 and IκBα) signaling pathways. These pathways are essential for the regulation of immune responses and inflammation. The MAPK pathway is involved in cellular responses to various stimuli, while NF-κB is a critical transcription factor in the immune system. The findings from this study are consistent with prior research on other species of the Filipendula genus. For instance, F. palmata was shown to have anti-inflammatory and skin-moisturizing effects, mediated by the downregulation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways[2]. Similarly, meadowsweet (F. ulmaria) was found to contain flavonoids and tannins, which have been linked to its therapeutic properties, including the inhibition of colorectal carcinogenesis[3]. These earlier studies support the notion that members of the Filipendula genus possess significant bioactive compounds that can modulate immune responses and inflammation. Moreover, the current study's findings align with research on other plant-derived immunostimulatory agents. For example, fermented persimmon fruit was shown to enhance macrophage-stimulatory activity through the activation of MAPK and NF-κB pathways, similar to the effects observed with FG-CWH[4]. This suggests that plant-derived polysaccharide-protein mixtures, such as AGPs, could be a common mechanism for boosting immune function. In conclusion, the research conducted by Korea University provides valuable insights into the immunostimulatory properties of Korean meadowsweet. The identification and characterization of FG-CWH as an AGP-rich glycoprotein with significant macrophage-stimulatory activity offer promising potential for developing novel functional ingredients to enhance human immunity. This study not only reinforces the therapeutic potential of the Filipendula genus but also opens new avenues for utilizing plant-derived compounds in immunomodulation.

MedicineBiochemPlant Science

References

Main Study

1) Elucidating Korean meadowsweet (Filipendula glaberrima Nakai)-derived arabinogalactan protein-induced macrophage activation and its associated mechanism of action.

Published 10th June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132999

Related Studies

2) In vitro assessment of the anti-inflammatory and skin-moisturizing effects of Filipendula palmata (Pall.) Maxim. On human keratinocytes and identification of its bioactive phytochemicals.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2022.115523

3) The inhibitory effect of Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. on colorectal carcinogenesis induced in rats by methylnitrosourea.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2018.08.013

4) Rhamnogalacturonan I-rich polysaccharide isolated from fermented persimmon fruit increases macrophage-stimulatory activity by activating MAPK and NF-κB signaling.

https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.11625


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