Fluoxetine restrains allergic inflammation by targeting an FcɛRI-ATP positive feedback loop in mast cells

Sci Signal. 2023 Sep 12;16(802):eabc9089. doi: 10.1126/scisignal.abc9089. Epub 2023 Sep 12.

Abstract

There is a clinical need for new treatment options addressing allergic disease. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressants that have anti-inflammatory properties. We tested the effects of the SSRI fluoxetine on IgE-induced function of mast cells, which are critical effectors of allergic inflammation. We showed that fluoxetine treatment of murine or human mast cells reduced IgE-mediated degranulation, cytokine production, and inflammatory lipid secretion, as well as signaling mediated by the mast cell activator ATP. In a mouse model of systemic anaphylaxis, fluoxetine reduced hypothermia and cytokine production. Fluoxetine was also effective in a model of allergic airway inflammation, where it reduced bronchial responsiveness and inflammation. These data show that fluoxetine suppresses mast cell activation by impeding an FcɛRI-ATP positive feedback loop and support the potential repurposing of this SSRI for use in allergic disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine Triphosphate
  • Animals
  • Cytokines
  • Feedback
  • Fluoxetine* / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin E
  • Inflammation / drug therapy
  • Mast Cells*
  • Mice

Substances

  • Fluoxetine
  • Cytokines
  • Adenosine Triphosphate
  • Immunoglobulin E