The immunomodulatory effect of ivermectin on rat vasculitis model

Introduction: Vasculitis is the inflammation of the blood vessel walls and tissues, affecting single organs or multiple systems and is often a hidden factor in numerous disorders. Different pathogens induce innate and adaptive immune system cells to release pro-inflammatory cytokines. These processes lead to the production of proteolytic enzymes, oxidative stress, vascular homeostasis disruption, and destruction of endothelial cells. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of ivermectin on the rat vasculitis model. Materials and Methods: This experimental animal study included 33 male Wistar albino rats which were divided into five groups. The disease was induced in all groups except group I (control); rats of this group received the dissolving vehicles only. Group II (vasculitis induction group) received ovalbumin and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Group III, group IV and group V (ivermectin groups) were pretreated with 0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg and 1.5 mg/kg of ivermectin, respectively, for seven days, followed by vasculitis induction using ovalbumin and LPS. Results: This study showed a significant reduction (P<0.001) in serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) levels in rats who received ivermectin compared to the disease group. Immunohistochemistry staining of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) showed a decrease in the expression of this receptor in ivermectin groups. Conclusion: Ivermectin modulates inflammatory reactions by inhibiting inflammatory marker expression. Therefore, ivermectin can be effective in protecting against the disease.