BackgroundInterstitial cystitis (IC), a chronic inflammatory condition of the urinary bladder characterized by pain and difficulties with urination, has limited treatment options. Beta-caryophyllene (BCP) is a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, but has poor water solubility and limited intestinal absorption which may limit oral bioavailability. Indena Phytosome® is a proprietary food-grade lecithin-based delivery system that optimizes the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profile of natural phytochemicals like BCP by producing a stable solid dispersion suitable for oral delivery.ObjectiveTo examine the therapeutic potential of an oral BCP Indena Phytosome® formulation (BCP Indena Phytosome®) for the treatment of IC.MethodsFemale BALB/c mice were pre-treated with BCP Indena Phytosome® or empty Indena Phytosome® vehicle, then IC was induced using lipopolysaccharide. 24 h later, inflammation was evaluated using intravital microscopy and histology. Pain was evaluated using behavior scoring and von Frey asethesiometry.ResultsPre-treatment with BCP Indena Phytosome® reduced leukocyte adhesion, histology scores, and behavior scores in IC mice, indicating a reduction in inflammation and pain. Lipopolysaccharide administration did not alter leukocyte rolling, capillary perfusion, or von Frey scores.ConclusionsOral BCP Indena Phytosome® effectively reduces pain and inflammation in experimental IC by decreasing leukocyte adhesion and extravasation in the bladder.
Clinical hemorheology and microcirculation. 2026 Apr 24 [Epub ahead of print]
Hannah White, Kayle Dickson, Cassidy Scott, Daniel Neira Agonh, Ashley Cox, Melanie Kelly, Juan Zhou, Christian Lehmann
Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada., Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada., Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada., Department of Urology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada., Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.