Licarin A ((+)-Licarin A), a neolignan isolated from various plants, significantly and dose-dependently reduces TNF-α production (IC50=12.6±0.3 μM) in dinitrophenyl-human serum albumin (DNP-HSA)-stimulated RBL-2H3 cells. Anti-allergic effects. Licarin A reduces TNF-α and PGD2 production, and COX-2 expression[1]。
Licarin A is found in plants such as Aristolochia taliscana, Machilus thunbergii and Myristica fragrans, which are used as spices and in folk medicines for nervous and digestive disorders. Licarin A also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects[1]. Licarin A (5-20 μM) reduces TNF-α and prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) secretion via the inhibition of PKCα/βII and p38 MAPK pathways. Licarin A treatment tends to reduce phosphorylated PKCα/βII and p38 MAPK protein levels[1].
[1]. Takuya Matsui, et al. Licarin A Is a Candidate Compound for the Treatment of Immediate Hypersensitivity via Inhibition of Rat Mast Cell Line RBL-2H3 Cells. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2015 Dec;67(12):1723-32.