Investigations into the immunomodulatory activity of Ulmus davidiana Planch extracts

Objective: Although the effect of Ulmus davidiana Planch (UD) extracts on collagen-induced-arthritis (CIA) and bone metabolism has been studies, research on its effect on human immunomodulatory activity is further a due. The objective of the present study was to investigate the immunomodulatory activity of UD on cellular and humoral immunity. Methods : Oral administration of the ethanolic and water extracts of UD, at doses of 20, 100 and 200 mg/kg in mice, dose dependently potentiated the delayed type hypersensitivity reaction induced both by sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and oxazolone. Results : It significantly enhanced the production of circulating antibody titre in response to SRBC in mice. Extracts of UD failed to show any effect on macrophage phagocytosis. Chronic administration of UD extracts significantly ameliorated the total white blood cell count and also restored the myelosuppressive effects induced by cyclophosphamide. Conclusion : The present investigation reveals that UD extracts possesses immunomodulatory activity.