Investigation of Immune-Regulatory Effects of Mageumsan Hot Spring via Protein Microarray In Vitro

The Specific Properties of Phusang Hot Spring Water: Safety and Benefits

Phusang warm pond or Phusang hot spring (Thailand) has a temperature of approximately 36–38 °C and may be suitable for bacterial growth. However, data on the microbiota and effectiveness of this water remain obscure. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of Phusang hot spring water by clarifying the microorganisms and viral pathogens present. Cytotoxicity, irritation, liposome uptake, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated. The levels of trace elements such as sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), and strontium (Sr) were confirmed. Phusang hot spring water was nontoxic to L-929 cells and HDFa cells and was nonirritating to human phototypes I to IV at 48 h. The antimicrobial effects of Phusang hot spring water on S. aureus, S. epidermidis, B. subtilis and E. coli were not detected using the agar well diffusion assay. Phusang hot spring water decreased interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression at 24 h compared with (PBS) and untreated controls, as measured using semi qRT‒PCR and ELISA. Phusang hot spring water combined with curcumin-loaded liposomes exerted antiaging effects, suggesting their benefits for application in cosmetic products. The bacteriophage families Myoviridae, Siphoviridae and Podoviridae were detected, but not HPV or EBV. Trace elements such as Na and Ca were present. Therefore, the importance of this study is that Phusang hot spring water exerts anti-inflammatory effects via IL-6, is nontoxic and nonirritating, and might be used for balneotherapy or as a cosmetic ingredient under sterile conditions.

Effect of thermal spring water on human dendritic cell inflammatory response

Background

Hydrotherapy appears as a valuable therapeutic tool in the management of patients suffering from chronic skin inflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, the underlying immune mechanisms of these beneficial effects remain poorly understood. To better understand the biological effects of thermal spring water on the immune system, we investigated the effects of Avène thermal spring water (ASW) on dendritic cells as key cells participating in the control of the immune response.

Methods

Dendritic cells (DCs) were generated from human monocytes and matured with LPS in ASW-based culture medium or in dexamethasone supplemented culture medium as an anti-inflammatory treatment. The phenotypes and abilities of these DCs to produce cytokines and induce allogeneic T cell response was next assessed.

Results

We showed that ASW modulated the differentiation of monocytes into DCs and impacted the DC maturation upon LPS priming. We observed a reduction of the CD83, CD86, CD1a and HLA-DR molecule expression and a decrease of IL-12 and IL-23 production whereas IL-10 production was increased. LPS-primed DCs generated in presence of ASW exhibited a reduced capacity to induce naive CD4⁺ T cell proliferation and IFN-γ and IL-17 production.

Conclusion

Our study showed that ASW is endowed with an immunomodulatory potential. ASW limits the DC stimulatory capacity of Th1 and Th17 cell responses by impairing their maturation, IL-12 and IL-23 production and accessory cell function.