Comparative analysis of micellar and native formulations of Boswellia serrata oleogum extracts in T-cell receptor-activated lymphocytes

Chronic inflammatory disorders represent one of the predominant healthcare burdens. There is evidence that the oleogum resin from Boswellia serrata trees can downmodulate pro-inflammatory processes. Lipid micellar preparations of Boswellia serrata have been introduced to the market to overcome the low bioavailability of nonformulated Boswellia oleogum resin preparations. In this study, we aimed to compare the anti-inflammatory effects of two different Boswellia serrata nutraceuticals: the native, nonformulated Biotikon® BS-85 and the micellar Boswellia-Loges®. We have previously shown that single oral administration of 800 mg of either formulation reduces the release of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 by LPS-activated blood of donors. Here we show that under the same conditions, the production of IL-17A was increased by the nonformulated, native extract of Boswellia serrata oleogum resin. In vitro, the nonformulated but not the micellar formulation of Boswellia serrata oleogum resin decreased the release of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2 by TCR-activated lymphocytes. Both formulations as well as the bioactive principles boswellic acids lowered NF-κB activity in TCR-activated T lymphocytes. Similarly, both Boswellia serrata formulations and boswellic acids reduced NFAT activity in TCR-activated T lymphocytes. The nonformulated Boswellia serrata extract exhibited higher inhibitory activity on the release of T-cell cytokines. The results suggest that nutraceuticals containing the nonformulated oleogum extract of Boswellia serrata might be more effective in hampering chronic inflammatory disorders characterized by increased activity of T cells than the micellar formulations.