Immunostimulatory and anti-allergic potential of novel heterotrimeric lectin from seeds of Zizyphus mauritiana Lam.

Abstract Zizyphus mauritiana Lam. seeds (ZMSL) have been used medicinally as sedative or hypnotic drugs in most of Asian countries. ZMSL has significant benefits to the human health. Therefore, we have evaluated immunomodulatory effect of lectin extracted from these seeds in both in vitro and in vivo study. Anaphylaxis is a severe life-threatening allergic reaction and Arthus reaction is deposition of immune complex and complement system activation, so we hypothesized that if ZMSL can protect these severe allergic diseases. We have studied the effect of ZMSL on macrophages and Wistar albino rats and confirmed its protective effect against anaphylaxis and Arthus reaction. Results of this study suggest ZMSL have immunostimulatory and antiallergic activity.