Aims: Large epidemiological studies have shown that low-fat dairy intake reduces the risk of developing gout. It was hypothesised that factors within dairy fractions inhibit the inflammatory response to monosodium urate monohydrate (MSU) crystals.
Methods: Dairy fractions were tested in MSU crystal-stimulated THP-1 cell assays. Fractions with inhibitory effects were then tested in the murine urate peritonitis model.
Results: Two dairy fractions were found to have consistent inhibitory effects. Glycomacropeptide (GMP) and G600 milk fat extract both inhibited interleukin-1beta (IL1beta) gene and protein expression in the THP-1 cell assay. Conversely, standard milk fat increased IL8 protein expression in the THP-1 cell assay. Oral administration of GMP and G600 milk fat extract inhibited cellular influx in the urate peritonitis model.
Conclusions: Both protein and lipid fractions within dairy products are capable of modulating the inflammatory response to MSU crystals.