An anti-inflammatory component derived from milk of hyperimmunised cows reduces tight junction permeability in vitro.

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

Effects of hyperimmune milk factor (HIMF), an anti-inflammatory factor from milk of hyperimmunised cows, on tight junction permeability and cell growth were studied in vitro.

MATERIAL OR SUBJECTS

Mammary (HC11) and kidney (MDCK) epithelial cell lines were used.

TREATMENT

HIMF was used at a final concentration of 2 mg/ml.

METHODS

Tight junction permeability was assessed by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) across confluent monolayers, following the addition of HIMF with or without an inflammatory challenge. Cell growth was assessed by measuring total DNA of cultures with and without HIMF. Data were analysed by analyses of variance.

RESULTS

HIMF promoted tight junction formation and prevented loss of TER following a challenge in both epithelia. Post-challenge recovery of TER was also faster with HIMF. HIMF inhibited cell growth.

CONCLUSIONS

HIMF stimulates tight junction maintenance and formation, and its previously reported anti-inflammatory properties may be mediated by restricting the extravasation of white blood cells through tight junctions.