"International Journal of Herbal Medicine"

Volume 2, Issue 1

 

Lonicera japonica alters antigen-stimulated T cell functions

 

Author(s): Austin Brooks, Jessica Jonkman, Zach Bookmyer, Heather A. Bruns

Abstract: Lonicera japonica is a honeysuckle species commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, having a variety of anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties.  Studies examining individual constituents of L. japonica as well as concoctions containing L. japonica have demonstrated that it inhibits the proliferation of stimulated T cells, potentially contradicting the immune-enhancing function of L. japonica.  This study investigated the effect of L. japonica dried herb extract (1:5) on T cell function in vitro to elucidate the comprehensive effect of L. japonica on T cell-mediated immune function.  Purified murine T cells were stimulated in the presence or absence of L. japonica, and alterations in protein expression, proliferation, and cell survival of T cells were assessed. L. japonica inhibited proliferation, altered protein expression, and increased the death of antigen-stimulated T lymphocytes, suggesting that L. japonica may serve a role in regulating T cell function, but may contribute to the generation of an ineffective immune response if used inappropriately.

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