Triptolide suppresses airway goblet cell hyperplasia and Muc5ac expression via NF-κB in a murine model of asthma

Background: We have reported that triptolide inhibited pulmonary inflammation in patients with steroid-resistant asthma. In the present study, we investigated whether suppresses airway remodeling and goblet cell hyperplasia, studied the mechanism of triptolide on mucin5ac (Muc5ac) expression in a murine model of asthma. Methods: BALB/c mice were sensitized to intraperitoneal ovalbumin (OVA) followed by repetitive ovalbumin challenge for 6 weeks. Treatments included triptolide (40 mu g/kg) and dexamethasone (2 mg/kg). The area of bronchial airway (WAt/Pbm), smooth muscle (WAm/Pbm) and mucus index were assessed 24h after the final OVA challenge. Levels of Muc5ac were assessed by ELISA, immunohistology and real-time PCR. Western blot was performed to analyze the phosphorylation of NF-kappa B p65. Results: Triptolide and dexamethasone significantly reduced allergen-induced increases in the thickness of bronchial airway, smooth muscle and goblet cell hyperplasia. Levels of lung Muc5ac and Muc5ac mRNA were significantly reduced in mice treated with triptolide and dexamethasone. Phosphorylation of NF-kappa B p65 was significantly reduced in mice treated with triptolide and dexamethasone. Conclusion: Triptolide may inhibit airway goblet cell hyperplasia and Muc5ac expression in asthmatic mice via NF-kappa B. It may be a potential drug for the treatment of patients with severe asthma. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.