Scutellaria barbata ameliorates acute respiratory distress syndrome by inhibiting neutrophil-mediated inflammatory responses.

Summary

Using human neutrophils and an LPS-induced murine ARDS model, the authors show that Scutellaria barbata ethanol extract suppresses key neutrophil effector functions and signaling (Akt/p38, Ca2+), reducing lung injury and oxidative stress without cytotoxicity. This supports neutrophil-targeted phytotherapeutics as a mechanistic avenue in ARDS.

Key Findings

• SB-EtOH inhibited respiratory burst, degranulation, and chemotaxis in activated human neutrophils without cytotoxicity.
• SB-EtOH attenuated Akt and p38 phosphorylation and reduced calcium mobilization in neutrophils.
• In an LPS-induced ARDS mouse model, SB-EtOH reduced pulmonary neutrophil infiltration, lung tissue damage, and oxidative stress.

Clinical Implications

While preclinical, these data justify exploration of standardized S. barbata derivatives or active constituents as adjunctive therapies to modulate neutrophilic inflammation in ARDS.

Limitations

• Complex herbal extract; active constituents and pharmacokinetics not defined.
• Preclinical findings; no human safety or efficacy data.

Future Directions

Isolate and characterize active compounds, define dose–response and PK/PD, and progress to safety/feasibility trials targeting neutrophilic ARDS phenotypes.