The effect of Kampo on Streptococcus pneumoniae infection

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21K15654
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 52010:General internal medicine-related
• Research Institution: The University of Tokyo (2022-2023); National Institute of Infectious Diseases (2021)
• Principal Investigator: Akahori Yukiko 東京大学, 大学院医学系研究科(医学部), 助教 (80782961)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 漢方 / 感冒 / 肺炎球菌 / 薬剤耐性菌

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Based on years of clinical knowledge, Kampo products are prescribed as pharmaceuticals in Japan. However, the precise mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role of Kampo on Streptococcus pneumoniae (Sp) infection. We found 3 Kampo out of 11 we tested have direct bactericidal activity against Sp. They were also active against drug resistance Sp. Kampo-stimulated innate immune cells produced TNF and IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner. When stimulated with the serum from a mouse forcedly fed Kampo (Kampo metabolite), IL-1b was dose-dependent. These results suggest that Kampo and Kampo metabolite act differently on innate immune cells.

Free Research Field

感染症

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

漢方方剤は、臨床的知見に基づいて広く医薬品として処方されているが、それら分子生物学的機序は明らかになっていないものが多い。一方、細菌感染症は薬剤耐性菌の増加が見られ治療の妨げとなっている。本研究により、一部の漢方方剤が直接的に肺炎球菌に対して殺菌的に働くことが明らかになった。漢方代謝産物では発育阻止能が確認されなかったものの、これらを詳細に解析することで、薬剤耐性菌を含めた新規薬剤の開発などにつながることが期待される。