Compositions and methods for treating immune disorders

Abstract

Green tea polyphenol compositions and methods of their use are provided. Certain aspects provide methods for modulating expression of one or more autoantigens using the disclosed green tea polyphenol compositions. Representative green tea polyphenols include, but are not limited to (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate. Other aspects provide methods for treating autoimmune disease.

1 - 24 . (canceled) 
     
     
         25 . A composition comprising:
 -(-)epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug thereof, in an amount effective to treat xerostomia.   
     
     
         26 . The composition of  claim 25 , wherein the amount of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate is effective to inhibit expression of one or more autoantigens in a a salivary gland cell. 
     
     
         27 . The composition of  claim 26 , wherein the one or more autoantigens is selected from the group consisting of SS-A, SS-B, fodrin, centromere protein, golgin-67, coilin, and PARP. 
     
     
         28 . The composition of  claim 25 , wherein the composition further comprises (-)-epicatechin, (-)-epigallocatechin, (-)-epicatechin-3-gallate, proanthocyanidins, enantiomers thereof, isomers thereof, combinations thereof, or prodrugs thereof. 
     
     
         29 . The composition of  claim 25 , wherein the amount of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate is effective to decrease expression of at least two autoantigens relative to a control. 
     
     
         30 - 36 . (canceled) 
     
     
         37 . The composition of  claim 25  in a mucosal dosage form. 
     
     
         38 . The composition of  claim 37 , wherein the mucosal dosage form is a buccal patch. 
     
     
         39 . The composition of  claim 37 , wherein the mucosal dosage form is a lozenge. 
     
     
         40 . The composition of  claim 25 , further comprising an herbal extract.