Magnolia May Reduce Arthritis

SEOUL, KoreaOral administration of honokiol, a plant-derived compound isolated from Magnolia species, inhibited type II collagen (CII)-induced arthritis (CIA) development by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, MMP expressions and oxidative stress, making it an attractive candidate for an anti-arthritic agent, according to a recently published study (J Pharmacol Sci. Aug 10, 2010).

Plant-derived compounds with potent anti-inflammatory activity have attracted a great deal of attention as a source for novel anti-arthritic agents with minimal side effects. As reported by Korean researchers, the oral administration of honokiol inhibited the progression and severity of CIA by reducing clinical arthritis scores and paw swelling. The histological analysis demonstrated preserved joint space; and the immunohistochemical data showed the levels of interleukin (IL)-17, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, MMP-9, MMP-13 and receptor activator for nuclear factor-kappaB ligand, as well as nitrotyrosine formation, were substantially suppressed in the honokiol-treated CIA mice. The elevated serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and IL-1beta in the CIA mice were also restored to control levels via honokiol treatment. In the CIA mice, honokiol inhibited CII- or lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cytokine secretion in spleen cells, as well as CII-stimulated spleen cell proliferation. Furthermore, honokiol treatment reduced CIA-induced oxidative damage in the liver and kidney tissues of CIA mice.