Inhibition of human calcineurin and yeast calcineurin-dependent gene expression by Jasminum humile leaf and root extracts.
BACKGROUND
The leaves of Jasminum humile are used to treat skin disorders in a way which resembles the use of modern topical anti-inflammatory drugs. Ethanolic extracts of the roots and leaves were shown to inhibit calcineurin which is a regulator of inflammatory gene expression.


METHODS
A novel yeast calcineurin reporter gene assay suitable for a 96 well plate format was developed to test for inhibition of calcineurin-dependent gene expression. Calmodulin/calcineurin phosphatase assays were then used to further elucidate the mode of action of the extracts.


CONCLUSIONS
Jasminum humile root and leaf extract exhibited calcineurin inhibition activity that was shown to be mediated through a direct interaction with calcineurin enzyme. The activity is sufficient to block calcineurin-dependent gene expression in a yeast model. The activity of the plant supports its traditional use in the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders. The specially adapted yeast reporter assay was found to be a highly effective way of detecting calcineurin inhibitors in plant extracts.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew TW9 3AB, UK. T.Prescott@kew.org
Thomas A K
TA
Prescott
Joaquín
J
Ariño
Geoffrey C
GC
Kite
Monique S J
MS
Simmonds
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D065095:Calcineurin Inhibitors; D002147:Calmodulin / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D015870:Gene Expression / Q000187:drug effects; D017930:Genes, Reporter; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D031660:Jasminum; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000494:pharmacology*; D018515:Plant Leaves; D018517:Plant Roots; D012441:Saccharomyces cerevisiae / Q000235:genetics; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D065095:Calcineurin Inhibitors; D002147:Calmodulin; D010936:Plant Extracts