Luteolin Is More Potent than Cromolyn in Their Ability to Inhibit Mediator Release from Cultured Human Mast Cells.

This research article compares the effectiveness of luteolin, a natural flavonoid, to cromolyn, the traditional "mast cell blocker," in inhibiting mediator release from mast cells. The study finds that luteolin is significantly more potent than cromolyn in preventing the release of a range of pro-inflammatory substances from cultured human mast cells. These substances include histamine, tryptase, and several cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF. The findings suggest that luteolin, particularly in liposomal form for better oral absorption, could be a more effective alternative to cromolyn for inhibiting mast cell activation, potentially benefiting patients with conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS).