Oral administration of Vaccinium uliginosum L. extract inhibits the development of DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis in NC/Nga mice

Vaccinium uliginosum L. (also known as Bog Bilberry or Northern Bilberry) has been reported to have anti-oxidant [1] and protective effects against UV-induced skin photoaging [2]. To investigate the anti-atopic dermatitis effects we orally administrated Vaccinium uliginosum L. extract (VU) dissolved in distilled water (90, 150, 250mg/kg) to atopic dermatitis induced NC/Nga mice (n=5) daily for 4 weeks. Prednisolone treatment group (3mg/kg, n=5), normal group (DNCB -, VU -, n=5), and negative control group (DNCB+, VU-, n=5) were compared to VU treatment groups. Oral administration of Vaccinium uliginosum L. extract significantly inhibited the exacerbation of AD-like skin lesions, thickness of ear and scratching behavior comparing to negative control group (DNCB +, VU -). Moreover, VU treatment decreased serum IgE level in a dose dependent manner, and significantly reduced IL-4 and IFN- γ production in concanavalin A (Con A) stimulated splenocyte. These results suggest that Vaccinium uliginosum L. extract may be effective therapeutic agent against Atopic Dermatitis by inhibiting IgE and cytokines production.

References: 1. Kim YH., et al. (2009)J. Med. Food. 12(4): 885–892.

2. Bae JY., et al. (2009) Mol. Nutri. Food Res. 53: 726–738.