Background:
Sargassum polycystum C. Agardh has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
However, its anti-allergic effect has not yet been reported. In this study, we investigated the anti-allergic effects of sulfated
polysaccharide of S. polycystum (SPSP) in Dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)- induced allergic contact dermatitis animal model.
Methods:
SPSP was extracted through hot water extraction method and was subjected to compositional analyses. For the
allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) model, symptoms were induced by the topical application of 0.5% DNFB on the shaved
ventral skin of mice. SPSP (500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg) and Prednisolone were orally administered for seven days after
sensitization. Elicitation was performed seven days later with 0.2% DNFB. After this, ear thickness was measured at baseline
and 24 hours post elicitation using a dial thickness gauge. Serum of mice was obtained 24 hours post elicitation, and the
level of IFNγ and TNF
Results:
SPSP afforded 33.6% carbohydrates, 23.7% sulfate, 7.5% protein, and 1.5% uronic acid contents. SPSP inhibited
the ear swelling and cytokines (IFNγ and TNF
Conclusion:
These findings showed that the sulfated polysaccharide from S. polycytum is a potential natural source to treat
Allergic Contact Dermatitis. The effect is attributed to polysaccharide-protein complex present in the extract, but further
studies are needed to establish the exact mechanism of action of SPSP in the treatment of the disease.
The Markov Switching ACD Model