Efficacy of parthenolide on lung histopathology in a murine model of asthma

Introduction: Parthenolide is the active constituent of the plant 'Tanacetum parthenium' (Feverfew) which has been used for centuries as a folk remedy for migraine, arthritis and inflammatory conditions. Its antiinflammatory effects have been shown in several human and animal studies. In this study we aimed to investigate the effects of parthenolide on histological changes in a murine model of chronic asthma. Materials and Methods: Thirty- five BALB/c mice were divided into five groups; I (control), II (placebo), III, IV and V. All groups except the control were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin. Sterile saline was administered instead of ovalbumine in control group. Mice in Group II (placebo group) received solvent of parthenolide dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), Group III received dexamethasone, Group IV received parthenolide and Group V received both dexamethasone and parthenolide via intraperitoneal route once daily in the last five days of the challenge period. Animals were sacrificed by an overdose of ketamin after 24 hours from the last dose of the drug administration. Lung histology was evaluated by using light and electron microscopy. Levels of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5 were determined by ELISA. Results: Histologic parameters except the number of mast and goblet cells improved in parthenolide group (Group I) when compared with placebo. All parameters except basal membrane thickness and number of mast cells were improved significantly better in group receiving dexamethasone (Group III) when compared with parthenolide group (Group IV). Improvement of most of the histologic parameters were similar in Group III and V. Interleukin-4 levels were significantly reduced in parthenolide group when compared to placebo group, but IL-5 levels were similar in both groups. Conclusion: In this study we demonstrated that parthenolide administration alleviated some of the pathologic changes in asthma. But parthenolide alone is not efficient as dexamethasone therapy and parthenolide and dexamethasone combination also did not add any beneficial effect to dexamethasone treatment.