Red Ginseng Inhibits Scratching Behavior Associated With Atopic Dermatitis in Experimental Animal Models

Abstract

Abstract. Pruritus is a severe symptom that is difficult to treat in atopic dermatitis patients. Red ginseng (RG), a natural medicine, has various biological activities such as anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we examined the efficacy of RG extract (RGE) and its mechanism on experimental atopic dermatitis in mice. The effects of RGE on vascular permeability and itching were first evaluated. Histamine-induced permeability and itching were significantly inhibited by embrocation with RGE as well as diphenhydramine, an antihistamine drug. Next, we assessed the therapeutic effect of topical RGE in a mouse model of atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis was induced by repeated application of 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) acetone solution to the mouse ear. The effects of tacrolimus (a calcineurin blocker), dexamethasone (a corticosteroid), and RGE on dermatitis and associated scratching behavior were compared. Repeated DNFB application caused frequent scratching behaviors and ear swelling. Topical treatment with tacrolimus, dexamethasone, and RGE for 8 days before the final challenge with DNFB significantly inhibited ear swelling. Tacrolimus and RGE significantly inhibited scratching behavior, whereas dexamethasone failed to do so. DNFB-induced nerve growth factor expression and nerve fiber extension were significantly attenuated by tacrolimus and RGE, but not by dexamethasone. RGE may have the potential for treatment of atopic dermatitis.

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Qingpeng Ointment in Atopic Dermatitis-Like Murine Model

“…In certain conditions, MCH can generate AD-like lesions and immune responses with Th1 and/or Th2 type inflammation [4]. Therefore, it is often used to study drug mechanism on AD [5–13]. In this work, we repeated applying DNFB as a hapten to induce AD-like lesions in BALB/c mice for research of drug mechanism on AD.…”

The Impact of Atopic Dermatitis on Children’s Sleep Duration and Their Mother’s Suicidal Ideation

“…Common medications used for allergic reactions include steroids, immunosuppressants, antihistamines (Samukawa et al, 2012). Although these types of medications are effective in alleviating symptoms, side effects have been observed in some patients (Boguniewicz & Leung, 2011).…”

Coriander Alleviates 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene-Induced Contact Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions in Mice

“…13,14 Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic member of the glucocorticoid class of steroid drugs and, like other steroidal drugs, it is commonly prescribed for the alleviation of the symptoms of skin dermatitis. 15,16 It is well known that CD skin lesions are characterized by thickened plaques with increased lichenification and fibrotic papules. Treatment with DNCB significantly increased the clinical skin severity scores, scratching scores, and skin thickness compared with the control group, but treatment with 0.5% CSE, 1% CSE, or 1% dexamethasone reduced the DNCB-induced clinical skin severity scores (Fig.…”