Effects of Tripterygium polyglucosideo (TP) on cytokines and eosinophil apoptosis in asthmatic patients in sputum
Objective To explore the mechanism of anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic action of TP in asthmatic patients. Methods Seventy asthmatic patients at stable stage were randomly divided into group A (TP-treated group) and group B (control group). IL-5 and sIL-2R in sputum were determined by ELISA, eosinophil (EOS) apoptosis was identified by flow cytometer. Results IL-5 and sIL-2R in sputum were significantly increased, and IL-5 and sIL-2R in sputum were decreased and EOS apoptosis percentages were significantly increased in group A after TP-treatment, and there was no significant difference among the above parameters in group B before and after treatment. Conclusion TP inhibited T and B cell activation and increased EOS apoptosis in asthmatic patients, and thus reduced immune-inflammation of the patients, the bronchus can be dilated and thus lung function improved.