Evaluation Effect of Probiotic Cream in Carrageenan-Induced Inflammation Model in Male Rat Hind Paw

Abstract

Background: Inflammation is the first biological response produced by immune
system against any infections or foreign allergen in order to protect the body. The main
anti-inflammatory drugs that are used today are Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAID), opioids, and corticosteroids. Despite the broad range of uses of these
drugs, many side effects have been associated with their use such as digestive
problems like ulcers and peptic bleeding. It has been suggested that products
containing probiotics can be used as an effective anti-inflammatory drug, due to effects
of Probiotics on immune responses such as reducing the inflammatory cytokines. In
this study, we aim to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of probiotics and to
compare the effect with commonly used drugs such as Piroxicam and Calandula in an
animal model.
Method: In this experimental study, after preparation of topical probiotic cream, used
Wistar male rats weighing 180-200 g were used and randomly divided into 6 groups;
negative control, positive control (piroxicam & calandula) and 3 treatment groups (2%,
4% and 8% w/w of LPE). Three groups, each received different doses (2%, 4% and 8%
w/w) of LPE cream by topical use was 30 minutes before injecting carrageenan into
plantar side of hind paw of the rats. Piroxicam gel and Calandula ointment were studied
as positive control for anti-inflammatory activity, respectively. Finally, to observe the
anti-inflammatory effect, the rat paw edema was measured every 15 min in the first
hour and then hourly for 5 hours. In the end, the volume of intact rat ҆s paw was
measured in all groups by using plethysmometer. In the study, the IL-6 levels was
measured by the ELIZA method.
Result: All groups under the administration of the probiotic extract of Lactobacillus
Casei compared to the negative control group in the rat paw edema show significant
difference (P<0.05). Dose 2% LPE (Lyophilized cell free Probiotic Extract), turned out to
be less effective than 2% Piroxicam cream in reducing edema during the study. But
there was no significant difference between the group receiving doses of 4% and 8%
w/w. The 4% dose of LPE cream was selected as the most favorable. These effects may
be due, at least in part, to the pro-inflammatory cytokine production of IL-6 and TNFα.
Also, all the groups under the administration of probiotic extract of Lactobacillus Casei
were compared to the Calandula Officinalis group in the male rat paw and it was seen
that there was no significant difference between them.
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that LPE cream can improve inflammation
effects in hand paw edema.