Morinda citrifolia lipid transfer protein 1 exhibits anti-inflammatory activity by modulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Previous reports have demonstrated that a thermostable lipid transfer protein isolated from noni seeds (McLTP; 9.4kDa) displays anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. This work aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory activity of McLTP in mice. The protein was solubilised in sterile saline (0.9% NaCl) immediately before the treatment of mice by oral or intraperitoneal routes at doses of 8mg/kg. Given orally or intraperitoneally, McLTP significantly inhibited (p<0.05) cell migration in experimental models of carrageenan-induced peritonitis and the formation of paw oedema induced by carrageenan and dextran. Additionally, McLTP demonstrated the ability to significantly inhibit the production of the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α (p<0.05) and to promote an increase in the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The treatment of mice with McLTP by the oral or i.p route reduced pancreatic injury and activities of amylase, lipase, and pancreatitis-associated lung injury. This study suggested that the observed anti-inflammatory effects of McLTP can be related to modulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels.