Objective: To investigate the effect of emodin on intestinalmucosa mast cells (IMMC) in mice with intestine ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Method: Twenty-eight mice were randomly divided into four groups (n=7 each): group A (sham operation group)

group B(superior mesenteric artery was clamped for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion)

group D1 and D2 (in which emodin 60 or 120 mg·kg-1 was given via gastric tube every day for 3 days before I/R). Intestinalmucosa pathology structure

the ultramicrostructure of IMMC were observed under electron microscope

and tryptase expression was compared for IMMC counting

histamine and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) were determined. Result: Compared with that of group A

Chiu’s score and IMMC number

histamine

TNF-α in group B were increased significantly (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with that of group B

IMMC number of group D1

D2 and TNF-α of group D2 were decreased markedly (P<0.05). IMMC ultrastructure in group A was normal

and there was some degranulation phenomenon in group B

such as mast cell envelope coalition and intracellular vacuoles. There was more less intracellular vacuoles in group D1 and D2. Conclusion: Emodin can decrease intestinalmucosa disorganization in mice by inhibiting IMMC activation and degranulation.