IN VITRO INHIBITION OF ALLERGIC SENSITIZATION

This test measures the potential of the tested substance to inhibit the nicke,-induced activation of dendritic cells, which put the basis for the generation of the allergic immune response.

Exposure to nickel is in vivo associated with the generation of contact allergy. In vitro, sub-toxic concentration of nickel sulphate can consistently up-regulate the expression of selected membrane markers on dendritic cells (e.g., CD80, CD83, CD86). Dexametasone can abolish this effect (loss of function). In this experimental setting, the possibility of a tested substance to exert an anti-inflammatory effect can be evaluated and quantitatively compared to the reference substance (dexametasone)..