12. Immunomodulatory Effects of Aloe Vera on Skin of BCG Vaccinated Albino Rats
Huma Riaz1, Aisha Akbar2, Maria Ilyas1 and Mariam Saad3
ABSTRACT
Objective: To determine the Immunomodulatory and anti- inflammatory effects of Aloe Vera gel by observing the changes in scar of Mantoux reaction on rat skin.
Study Design: Randomized Control Trial Study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Anatomy Department of PGMI, Lahore in March 2016 till February 2017.
Materials and Methods: The randomized experiment was performed on 24 albino rats (divided in 4 groups) of either sex. Group A was control. Group B,C and D were vaccinated by BCG intra dermally on day one. Group B was on placebo for thirty days. Group C and Group D were on different doses of Aloe Vera (For comparative study) orally by 5 cc disposable syringe for thirty days. On 30th day, Mantoux injection was given to Group B,C and D. After 72 hours the Mantoux injection site was observed grossly. Rats were sacrificed and specimen of skin were taken from that injection site, fixed and stained with H& E for microscopic analysis to observe the inflammatory and immune response.
Results: Statistically significant decrease in scar size of Mantoux reaction was observed in experimental groups (C and D) given variable doses of Aloe Vera (p<0.001) as compared to the group B. Leukocyte infiltration in Aloe Vera administered groups increased significantly (p=0.047) as compared to group B showing their role in anti-inflammatory response. Conclusion: The results proved that Aloe Vera reduces the inflammation and promote the growth of collagen fibers when orally taken.
Key Words: Aloe Vera, Inflammatory reaction, Immune response.
Citation of article: Riaz H, Akbar A, Ilyas N, Saad M. Immunomodulatory Effects of Aloe Vera on Skin of BCG Vaccinated Albino Rats. Med Forum 2020;31(5):48-52.