Abstract
Mast cells play an important role in inflammatory and allergic diseases. MAS-related G protein-coupled receptor X2 (MRGPRX2) is a novel G protein-coupled receptor in mast cells that mediates drug-induced anaphylactoid reactions. Piperine has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic pharmacological activities. However, whether the pharmacological effects are regulated by MRGPRX2 has not yet been reported. The purpose of this study was to assess the anti-anaphylactoid effect of Piperine and to explore its potential mechanism. The anti-anaphylactoid effect of Piperine was assessed by an in vivo mouse hindpaw extravasation model. Mast cell intracellular calcium mobilization was measured by a calcium imaging assay. An enzyme immunoassay was used to evaluate the release of pro-inflammatory factors from stimulated mast cells. Activated mast cell related signals were assessed by western blot. A cell membrane chromatography assay was used to determine the binding characteristics of Piperine and MRGPRX2. The results showed that Piperine suppressed mast cell intracellular Ca2+ mobilization, inhibited cytokines and chemokines release, and down-regulated the phosphorylation level of phospholipase Cγ1, protein kinase C, inositol 1,4,5-triphate receptor, P38, protein kinase B, and ERK. Meanwhile, Piperine can bind to MRGPRX2 as a specific antagonist. Hence, Piperine can be served as a novel therapeutic drug candidate for MRGPRX2-mediated anaphylactoid reactions.