Mast cell stabilizing effect of glucan A and phosphatidyllycorine isolated from Crinum latifolium

Abstract

The effect of glucan A and phosphatidyllycorine, isolated from Crinum latifolium L. (family Amaryllidaceae) was studied on the rate of degranulation of mast cells of albino rats. Different combinations of glucan A and phosphatidyllycorine (5–20 and 5–10 μg/mL, respectively) in vitro, produced statistically significant protection against Tween 80‐induced degranulation, as well as to sensitized mast cells challenged with an antigen (horse serum). The combination (10–20 mg/kg), when administered in vivo, also provided protection against compound 48/80‐induced degranulation of mast cells. The findings are appraised in view of the use of the total extract of C. latifolium, for the treatment of allergic disorders in Ayurvedic medicine. Copyright © 1988 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.