Anti-inflammatory potential of pre-formulated<i> Aloe</i><i> vera</i> in mitigating allergen-induced airway responses in mice

Abstract

Aloe vera, known for its rich phytochemical content, has long been used in traditional medicine. This study aimed to enhance its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties by formulating an intranasal Aloe vera gel with propylene glycol (PgAv) and assessing its efficacy through in vitro and in vivo models. In vitro, PgAv and Aloe vera gel (Av) were tested on LPS-induced HSAEC cells for mRNA expressions of TNF alpha, IL6, IL1 beta, and IL5. Co-culture experiments revealed PgAv reduced TNF alpha and increased IFN gamma, promoting a TH1-type response. In vivo, PgAv was administered intranasally to BALB/c mice with OVA-induced allergic airway inflammation model (AIAR). PgAv reduced mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BAL), decreased TNF alpha and OVA-IgE levels in plasma, and attenuated eosinophil infiltration and lung inflammation. While PgAv increased IL6 levels, it concurrently reduced PGD2 levels, indicating a therapeutic effect via prostanoid synthesis pathways. PgAv demonstrated superior efficacy compared to Av in modulating inflammatory responses, enhancing TH1 responses for immunological balance, and mitigating TH2-mediated inflammation. These findings suggest PgAv as a promising treatment for allergic airway inflammation, warranting further investigation to clarify the underlying mechanisms.