Biological effects and potential mechanisms of action of Pistacia lentiscus Chios mastic extract in Caco-2 cell model

Pistacia lentiscus L. (PL) is an evergreen shrub from which it is derived a precious aromatic resin called mastic gum or mastic. This extract possesses numerous proprieties, such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, etc. The aim of this study was to investigate the biological activities of a patented PL Chios mastic extract in a human small intestine mucosa model, the Caco-2 cells. PL Chios mastic extract showed no toxic effect in Caco-2 cells treated with lower concentrations (<100 μg/ml). Pro-inflammatory cytokines were not increased in Caco-2 cells and disaccharidase activity as well as sucrase–isomaltase expression were decreased at 50 μg/ml, suggesting a potential role in glycaemic control. Also paracellular permeability was reduced in Caco-2 cells and remarkably this extract induced a barrier effect useful in protecting against chemical or biological insults.