Immunopharmacological studies on the effects of Juzentaihoto and Hochuekkito on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in rats

Abstract

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a prototype experimental model for human multiple sclerosis (MS). This study was conducted to research the effects of Juzentaihoto and Hochuekkito on the onset and development of EAE.
Both Juzentaihoto and Hochuekkito suppressed the onset and development of EAE. Suppressive mechanisms of both Kampo medicines are mainly based on the immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory activity. In addition, Hochuekkito showed immunomodulating activity in the central nervous system. These findings will contribute to consider a new therapy of human MS.