The Antipruritic Effect of 2,6-bis-(4-hydroxy-3 methoxybenylidene)-cyclohexanone (BHMC) in a Mouse Model of Induced Pruritus
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Abstract
Introduction: Itch, an uncomfortable sensation leading to the urge to scratch, is often inadequately managed by
conventional antihistamine drugs, which can be ineffective in certain pruritic conditions and cause undesirable side
effects. Therefore, there is a need to identify new pharmacologically potent antipruritic compounds with fewer side
effects. A synthetic curcuminoid analogue, 2,6-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)-cyclohexanone (BHMC), a
derivative of curcumin - a bioactive compound found in turmeric - has demonstrated various pharmacological activities. Previous studies have shown that BHMC possesses antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties. This
study aimed to investigate the antipruritic effects of BHMC in mice models of induced pruritus. Materials and Methods: The pruritus in mice was induced using compound 48/80, substance P, histamine, and serotonin to establish
an itch-induced mouse model. BHMC was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) at doses of 0.1, 0.3, and 1.0 mg/kg.
Results: BHMC significantly reduced pruriceptive responses in all models tested and notably inhibited compound
48/80 and substance P-induced mast cell degranulation in skin tissues. Conclusions: These findings suggest that
BHMC inhibits pruriceptive responses in mice, likely through the inhibition of mast cell degranulation and/or direct
antagonism of peripheral histamine and serotonin receptors. This may warrant further exploration of the antipruritic
effect of BHMC in clinical trials for the betterment of animal and human health.
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