Abstract:
Objectives: To investigate the effects of a peroxisome proliferatoractivated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) agonist, rosiglitazone, on
induced bronchial asthma in a murine model. Material and
methods: Adult male guinea pigs were administered ovalbumin
100 mg/kg S.C. and 100 mg/kg I.P. Treatment with rosiglitazone (5
mg/kg/day, PO) was assessed for 21 days. On day 21, the animals
were challenged with the same dose of ovalbumin and the ratio of
FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second) to FVC (forced
vital capacity), FEV1/ FVC, was measured using a spirometer. In
addition, serum levels of interleukin-5 (IL-5) and immunoglobulin
E (IgE) were assessed. The activities of superoxide dismutase
(SOD) and catalase and the level of reduced glutathione (GSH)
were determined in lung tissue homogenates. Furthermore,
histopathological examination of the lung was performed. Results:
treatment with rosiglitazone resulted in a profound improvement in
lung function and histopathological features. These improvements
were accompanied by a significant decrease in the serum levels of
IL-5 and IgE. Moreover, the activities of antioxidant enzymes,
including SOD and catalase, and the GSH level were significantly
increased in the lung tissues of treated animals compared to those
of untreated asthmatic animals. Conclusion: PPAR-γ agonist
rosiglitazone may have potential in the development of therapies
for bronchial asthma
