Melatonin protects mast cells against cytotoxicity mediated by chemical stimuli PMACI: possible clinical use

J Neuroimmunol. 2013 Sep 15;262(1-2):62-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2013.06.013. Epub 2013 Jul 17.

Abstract

Melatonin has documented cytoprotective effects on a wide variety of immune cells. The mechanism of action on mast cells (RBL-2H3) still remains in the dark. We found that melatonin significantly attenuated phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI)-induced cytotoxicity in a concentration and time-dependent manner. It appears that the effect of melatonin on mast cells is two-fold: dependent (MT1 and MT2) and independent membrane receptors. In conclusion, melatonin treatment reduced the cytotoxicity, mediated by PMACI, and could provide a useful therapeutic option in processes where an excessive activation of mast cells occurs.

Keywords: Cytoprotection; Immune system; Melatonin; RBL-2H3 mast cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antioxidants / administration & dosage
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology*
  • Calcimycin / toxicity*
  • Calcium Ionophores / toxicity
  • Carcinogens / toxicity
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
  • Down-Regulation / immunology
  • Mast Cells / drug effects*
  • Melatonin / administration & dosage
  • Melatonin / pharmacology*
  • Phorbol Esters / toxicity
  • Rats
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Calcium Ionophores
  • Carcinogens
  • Phorbol Esters
  • Calcimycin
  • Melatonin