Therapeutic effects and metabolomics profiles of isoflavone extract of Belamcanda chinensis (L.) DC on house dust mite-induced allergic asthma mice

OBJECTIVE: Allergic asthma (AAS) affects over 300 million people globally, creating significant health and economic challenges. Belamcanda chinensis (L.) DC, known as SG, is traditionally used in the "Shegan-Mahuang decoction" for AAS treatment, yet its separate therapeutic effects are underexplored. This study aims to investigate the anti-AAS properties of isoflavones derived from SG. METHODS: Using a mouse model induced by house dust mite (HDM), the research involved treating HDM-sensitized mice with tectorigenin, dexamethasone, and varying doses of SG (low, medium, and high). Anti-inflammatory effectiveness was assessed through assays measuring cytokines, along with histological techniques such as hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining, alongside leukocyte counts. Additionally, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was utilized to analyze tissue metabolic changes. RESULTS: The medium dose of SG (435 mg/kg) significantly diminished inflammatory cell infiltration, goblet cell hyperplasia, and mucus production. Furthermore, SG treatment reduced cytokine levels and inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lowered serum HDM-IgE and total IgE levels, showcasing a notable reduction in inflammation. The metabolic profile of lung tissue from SG-treated mice closely resembled that of dexamethasone-treated mice, with levels of seven amino acid-related metabolites normalizing, aligning with decreased inflammatory responses. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the potential of SG isoflavone extract as an effective therapeutic strategy for AAS, shedding light on the mechanisms through which SG may alleviate allergic asthma symptoms.