Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases, which is affected by several factors. Anti-histamines, steroids, and immunosuppressive agents have been used for the treatment of AD. However, many studies have reported that long-term use and abuse of these drugs causes many side effects. This study was performed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of green tea extract on AD-like lesions in NC/Nga mice. Green tea extract from tannase digest (GTT), beta-hexosaminidase, and histamine were measured in IgE-antigen complex-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. Dorsal skin application of house dust mite-ointment induced AD-like symptoms in NC/Nga mice. Dermatitis scores, skin moisture, transepidermal waterloss (TEWL), thickness of skin and ear, T-cell proliferation, levels of immunoglobulins and cytokines, and infiltration of mast cell were measured to assess the degree of AD induction. Skin moisture and TEWL were measured using probes, and ELISA was performed to measure the immunoglobulin and cytokine levels in blood. GTT was selected based on its ability to inhibit the release of beta-hexosaminidase and histamine in IgE-antigen complex-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. Oral administration of GTT significantly suppressed the skin inflammation and symptoms of AD-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice. GTT may have a potential therapeutic effect in the treatment of AD.