SVS Formula Enhances Immune Function and Anti-inflammatory Effects in vivo and in vitro

Abstract

Background: Chronic low-grade inflammation underlies many diseases, highlighting the need for safe and effective therapeutic strategies. We developed SVS, a formula comprising serum-derived bovine immunoglobulin protein isolate (SBI), vitamin C, and selenium-enriched yeast (Se-yeast), and evaluated its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential. Methods: In vivo, mice (n = 12 per group) received SVS (0.240–0.720 g/kg/day) for 30 days to assess concanavalin A (ConA)-induced splenocyte proliferation and peritoneal macrophage phagocytosis. In vitro, LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages were treated with SVS (1–30 μg/mL). Levels of nitric oxide (NO) were measured by the Griess assay, and cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-6) were quantified by ELISA. Corresponding mRNA expression was analyzed by qRT-PCR. Transcriptomic profiling and pathway enrichment analysis were also performed. Results: In vivo, high-dose SVS (0.720 g/kg) significantly enhanced ConA-induced splenocyte proliferation and the macrophage phagocytic index (p < 0.05). In vitro, SVS significantly inhibited LPS-induced NO production (p < 0.05) and suppressed the secretion and mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 (p < 0.05). Notably, at a high concentration (30 μg/mL), the inhibitory effect of SVS on NO production was more pronounced than that observed with individual components (SBI or vitamin C) alone. Transcriptomics revealed that SVS reversed LPS-induced gene expression changes, particularly with the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway. Key differentially expressed genes (e.g., CCL22, TNFRSF9, IL1F6, LIF) were validated. Conclusions: The SVS formula exerts context-dependent immunomodulatory effects by enhancing immune responsiveness while suppressing excessive inflammation. These findings position SVS as a promising immunonutritional candidate for managing chronic inflammatory disorders.