Mast cell inhibition by ketotifen reduces splanchnic inflammatory response in a portal hypertension model in rats

Experimental early prehepatic portal hypertension induces an inflammatory exudative response, including an increased infiltration of the intestinal mucosa and the mesenteric lymph nodes by mast cells and a dilation and tortuosity of the branches of the superior mesenteric vein. The aim of this study is to verify that the prophylactic administration of Ketotifen, a stabilizing drug for mast cells, reduces the consequence of splanchnic inflammatory response in prehepatic portal hypertension. Male Wistar rats were used: Sham-operated and with Triple Partial Portal Vein Ligation, which were subcutaneously administered poly(lactide-co-glycolide) acid microspheres with vehicle 24h before the intervention and SO and rats with Triple Partial Portal Vein Ligation, which were administered Ketotifen-loaded microspheres. Around 48h after surgery, the portal pressure was measured; the levels of chymase (Rat Mast Cell Protease-II) were assayed in the superior mesenteric lymph complex and granulated and degranulated mast cells in the ileum and cecum were quantified. Prophylactic administration of Ketotifen reduced portal pressure, the incidence of dilation and tortuosity of the superior mesenteric vein branches, the amount of Rat Mast Cell Protease-II in the superior mesenteric lymph complex and the number of activated mast cells in the cecum of rats with portal hypertension. In summary, the administration of Ketotifen reduces early splanchnic inflammatory reaction in the rat with prehepatic portal hypertension.