RESUMEN

The search for less harmful, ecologically efficient, more specific, and natural alternatives for the control of pathogens is essential. Bauhinia variegata lectin (BvL) is a protein that has numerous biological activities, including antifungal. The present study examines the potential in vitro of B. variegata lectin against the fungus Bipolaris oryzae, responsible for agricultural losses in southern Brazil, due to damage to rice fields during seed germination. Bioassays to assess the inhibition potential of BvL were performed, including fungal growth, spore formation, and germination, in concentrations of 0, 25, 50, and 100 µg mL-1. Only the concentration of 100 µg mL-1 successfully inhibited mycelial growth and spore germination, while in spore formation, all treatments inhibited sporulation. In addition, fluorescence microscopy analysis demonstrated the ability of lectin to bind to the fungus and the lack of detection in the presence of lactose, suggesting its interaction with the fungal cell wall structures. This study highlights the potential of B. variegata seed lectin to control mycelial growth, sporulation, and germination of the phytopathogenic fungus B. oryzae, posing as a new biotechnological possibility for biological control.

Asunto(s)

Antifúngicos , Bauhinia , Lectinas de Plantas , Esporas Fúngicas , Bauhinia/química , Esporas Fúngicas/efectos de los fármacos , Esporas Fúngicas/crecimiento & desarrollo , Antifúngicos/farmacología , Antifúngicos/química , Lectinas de Plantas/farmacología , Ascomicetos/efectos de los fármacos , Ascomicetos/crecimiento & desarrollo , Enfermedades de las Plantas/microbiología , Enfermedades de las Plantas/prevención & control , Lectinas/farmacología , Oryza/microbiología , Oryza/crecimiento & desarrollo , Micelio/efectos de los fármacos , Micelio/crecimiento & desarrollo , Brasil , Semillas/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

AIMS: Currently, immunoinformatic approaches have shown promise in rapidly and cost-effectively identifying new antigens from the Leptospira proteome. Chimeric multiepitope proteins offer a strategy with significant potential for implementation in diagnosis and vaccines development. METHODS AND RESULTS: In this study, we detail the immunoinformatic analyses and design of a new recombinant chimeric protein constructed with epitopes identified from the sequences of ErpY-like and LemA proteins, previously identified as potential antigens for controlling leptospirosis. We expressed the chimeric protein using Escherichia coli heterologous systems, evaluated its antigenicity using serum from naturally infected patients, and its immunogenicity in mice as an animal model, with Freund as an adjuvant. The resulting recombinant chimeric protein, named rErpY-LemA, was successfully expressed and purified using a prokaryotic system, with an expected mass of 35 kDa. Serologic assays using serum samples from naturally infected patients demonstrated recognition of the chimera protein by antibodies present in sera. Animals immunized with the chimera exhibited a significant IgG antibody response from the 7th day (P < 0.001), persisting until day 49 of experimentation, with a titer of 1:12,800 (P < 0.05). Notably, significant production of IgA, IgM, and IgG subclasses was observed in animals immunized with the chimera. CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight the promising role of immunoinformatics in rapidly identifying antigens and the potential of chimeric multiepitope proteins in developing effective strategies for leptospirosis control.

Asunto(s)

Antígenos Bacterianos , Leptospirosis , Proteínas Recombinantes de Fusión , Leptospirosis/inmunología , Leptospirosis/prevención & control , Animales , Ratones , Antígenos Bacterianos/inmunología , Antígenos Bacterianos/genética , Proteínas Recombinantes de Fusión/inmunología , Proteínas Recombinantes de Fusión/genética , Humanos , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/sangre , Leptospira/inmunología , Leptospira/genética , Biología Computacional , Epítopos/inmunología , Epítopos/genética , Vacunas Bacterianas/inmunología , Vacunas Bacterianas/genética , Escherichia coli/genética , Inmunoglobulina G/sangre , Inmunoglobulina G/inmunología , Proteínas Recombinantes/inmunología , Proteínas Recombinantes/genética , Proteínas Bacterianas/inmunología , Proteínas Bacterianas/genética

RESUMEN

Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA) for antibody detection represent cost-effective and user-friendly tools for serology assessment. This study evaluated a new LFIA prototype developed with a recombinant chimeric antigen from the spike/S and nucleocapsid/N proteins to detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. The evaluation of LFIA sensitivity and specificity used 811 serum samples from 349 hospitalized, SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR positive COVID-19 patients, collected at different time points and 193 serum samples from healthy controls. The agreement between ELISA results with the S/N chimeric antigen and LFIA results was calculated. The LFIA prototype for SARS-CoV-2 using the chimeric S/N protein demonstrated 85 % sensitivity on the first week post symptoms onset, reaching 94 % in samples collected at the fourth week of disease. The agreement between LFIA and ELISA with the same antigen was 92.7 %, 0.827 kappa Cohen value (95 % CI [0.765-0.889]). Further improvements are needed to standardize the prototype for whole blood use. The inclusion of the novel chimeric S + N antigen in the COVID-19 IgG antibody LFIA demonstrated optimal agreement with results from a comparable ELISA, highlighting the prototype's potential for accurate large-scale serologic assessments in the field in a rapid and user-friendly format.

RESUMEN

Aristolochia plants are emblematic from an ethnopharmacological viewpoint and are know to possess numerous biological properties, including antiseptic. However, the medicinal potential of these species is debatable because of their representative chemical constituents, aristolochic acids (AAs) and aristolactams (ALs), which are associated, for instance, with nephropathy and cancer. These contrasting issues have stimulated the development of approaches intended to detoxification of aristoloquiaceous biomasses, among which is included the bioconversion method using larvae of the specialist phytophagous insect Battus polydamas, previously shown to be viable for chemical diversification and to reduce toxicity. Thus, eleven Aristolochia spp. were bioconverted, and the antimicrobial activities of the plant methanolic extracts and its respective bioconversion products were evaluated. The best results were found for Aristolochia esperanzae, Aristolochia gibertii, and Aristolochia ringens against Bacillus cereus, with MIC ranging from 7.8 to 31.25 µg/mL. These three species were selected for chemical, antioxidant, cytotoxic, hemolytic, and mutagenic analyses. Chemical analysis revealed 65 compounds, 21 of them possible bioconversion products. The extracts showed potential to inhibit the formation and degradation of B. cereus biofilms. Extracts of A. gibertii and its bioconverted biomass showed antioxidant activity comparable to dibutylhydroxytoluene (BHT) standard. Bioconversion decreased the hemolytic activity of A. esperanzae and the cytotoxicities of A. esperanzae and A. gibertii. None of the extracts was found to be mutagenic. The bioactivities of the fecal extracts were maintained, and biocompatibility was improved. Therefore, the results obtained in this study reveal positive expectations about the natural detoxification process of the Aristolochia species.

Asunto(s)

Aristolochia , Extractos Vegetales , Aristolochia/química , Animales , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Extractos Vegetales/química , Larva/efectos de los fármacos , Fitoquímicos/farmacología , Fitoquímicos/aislamiento & purificación , Pruebas de Sensibilidad Microbiana , Humanos , Antioxidantes/farmacología , Bacillus cereus/efectos de los fármacos , Antiinfecciosos/farmacología , Antiinfecciosos/química , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Antibacterianos/química , Mariposas Nocturnas/efectos de los fármacos

RESUMEN

Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic bacterium that causes infection in several sites. Carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii strains (CRAb) lead the World Health Organization's list of 12 pathogens considered a priority for developing new antimicrobials. The pathogenicity of A. baumannii is related to the different virulence factors employed in the colonization of biotic and abiotic surfaces, biofilm formation and multidrug resistance. We analyze the outer membrane protein FilF from A. baumannii in silico and produce it in recombinant form (rFilF). rFilF protein was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 Star in an insoluble form. Immunization with rFilF induced significant anti-rFilF IgG antibody production in mice, detected by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, since the first evaluation until 49th. On the last experimentation day, the predominant immunoglobulin found was IgG1 followed by IgG2a, IgG2b, IgM, IgG3, and IgA. We observe that interleukins 4 and 10 show significant production after the 28th day of experimentation in mice immunized with rFilF. Anti-rFilF pAbs were able to inhibit biofilm formation in nine CRAb strains evaluated, and in the standard strain ATCC® 19606. These results demonstrate the anti-biofilm activity of anti-rFilF antibodies, promising in the development of a non-antibiotic approach based on the control of CRAb strains.

Asunto(s)

Acinetobacter baumannii , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos , Biopelículas , Carbapenémicos , Biopelículas/efectos de los fármacos , Acinetobacter baumannii/inmunología , Acinetobacter baumannii/efectos de los fármacos , Animales , Anticuerpos Antibacterianos/inmunología , Carbapenémicos/farmacología , Ratones , Inmunoglobulina G/inmunología , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Infecciones por Acinetobacter/inmunología , Infecciones por Acinetobacter/microbiología , Proteínas Recombinantes/inmunología , Proteínas Recombinantes/farmacología , Proteínas Recombinantes/genética , Ratones Endogámicos BALB C , Femenino , Escherichia coli/genética , Escherichia coli/inmunología , Proteínas de la Membrana Bacteriana Externa/inmunología , Proteínas de la Membrana Bacteriana Externa/genética

RESUMEN

Lectins are proteins that reversibly bind to carbohydrates and are commonly found across many species. The Banana Lectin (BanLec) is a member of the Jacalin-related Lectins, heavily studied for its immunomodulatory, antiproliferative, and antiviral activity. In this study, a novel sequence was generated in silico considering the native BanLec amino acid sequence and 9 other lectins belonging to JRL. Based on multiple alignment of these proteins, 11 amino acids of the BanLec sequence were modified because of their potential for interference in active binding site properties resulting in a new lectin named recombinant BanLec-type Lectin (rBTL). rBTL was expressed in E. coli and was able to keep biological activity in hemagglutination assay (rat erythrocytes), maintaining similar structure with the native lectin. Antiproliferative activity was demonstrated on human melanoma lineage (A375), evaluated by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT). rBTL was able to inhibit cellular growth in a concentration-dependent manner, in an 8-h incubation, 12 µg/mL of rBTL led to a 28.94% of cell survival compared to cell control with 100%. Through a nonlinear fit out log-concentration versus biological response, an IC50% of 3.649 µg/mL of rBTL was determined. In conclusion, it is possible to state that the changes made to the rBTL sequence maintained the structure of the carbohydrate-binding site without changing specificity. The new lectin is biologically active, with an improved carbohydrate recognition spectrum compared to nBanLec, and can also be considered cytotoxic for A375 cells.

Asunto(s)

Escherichia coli , Lectinas , Humanos , Animales , Ratas , Lectinas/genética , Lectinas/farmacología , Escherichia coli/genética , Lectinas de Plantas/genética , Lectinas de Plantas/farmacología , Lectinas de Plantas/química , Secuencia de Aminoácidos , Carbohidratos

RESUMEN

Investigation of the endophytic fungi Nigrospora sphaerica, Nigrospora oryzae, and Pseudofusicoccum stromaticum MeOH fractions isolated from the leaves of Vochysia divergens, a medicinal species from the Brazilian Pantanal, led to the identification of five compounds, namely a new compound (1E,8Z)-10,11-dihydroxy-5,5,8-trimethyl-4-oxocycloundeca-1,8-diene-1-carbaldehyde (1) and four known compounds: 5-methylmellein (2), sclerone (3), daldinone A (4), and lasiodiplodin (5). All compounds were identified using spectroscopic methods, and 1 was corroborated with mass spectrometry, while the known compounds were compared with data in the literature. The relative configuration of compound 1 was determined based on theoretical conformational studies as well as the J experimental values between the hydroxymethyne hydrogens. The antimicrobial activity of the compounds was evaluated. Promising results were obtained for compounds 2, 4, and 5 since they inhibited the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic pathogen, suggesting the potential of these microorganisms as a source of new antibacterial agents.

Asunto(s)

Antiinfecciosos , Antiinfecciosos/química , Hongos/metabolismo , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Antibacterianos/metabolismo , Hojas de la Planta/microbiología , Brasil , Endófitos/metabolismo

RESUMEN

Introdução: A síndrome dos ovários policísticos (SOP) consiste em uma desordem de origem endocrinológica de grande prevalência nas mulheres em idade fértil, sendo acometidas por ela aproximadamente de 6 a 16% da população feminina - em consonância com diversos critérios diagnósticos 1-4. Essa síndrome é associada ao hiperandrogenismo e à resistência insulínica (RI), com manifestações clínicas relacionadas a alterações reprodutivas 4, desenvolvimento de diabetes mellitus (DM2) e obesidade. Esta pesquisa objetiva compreender o perfil das mulheres com DM 2 antes dos 35 anos e os fatores que podem levar a esta condição. Metodologia: Este estudo se deu por meio de inquérito on-line feito a mulheres diagnosticadas com SOP, e com menos de 35 anos de idade. Foi desenvolvido de maneira virtualizada via plataforma GoogleForms® em função da pandemia do COVID-19. Tratou-se de um levantamento sobre presença de fatores de risco para DM 2, como sobrepeso e alimentação, sedentarismo e qualidade do sono; em grupos de mulheres com SOP diabéticas e não diabéticas, para efeito de comparação. Resultados e discussão: Um total de 198 mulheres responderam ao questionário, sendo divididas em Diabéticas (DM) e não diabéticas (NDM). O grupo DM foi o que mais apresentou IMC elevado (acima de 30), e o que mais se declarou seguir orientações nutricionais. Atividade física não diferenciou entre os grupos. O grupo DM foi o que declarou dormir mais tarde (pós 23:00) quando comparado com o grupo NDM. O sobrepeso indica ser um fator importante para o advento da DM 2 neste grupo, sendo as orientações nutricionais não tão efetivas, devido muito a dificuldade de aderir às orientações. O hábito de dormir tarde implica em alterações que levam a aumento da RI via estresse oxidativo, contribuindo para obesidade e DM 2. Conclusões: A obesidade é um fator decisivo para a precocidade da DM 2 em mulheres com SOP, e sua condição é multifatorial, associada a seguimento de orientações nutricionais, atividade física e qualidade do sono. O evitar da precocidade da DM 2 neste grupo passa por esta compreensão.

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Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinological disorder with high prevalence in women of childbearing age, affected by approximately 6 to 16% of the female population - in line with several diagnostic criteria 1-4. This syndrome is associated with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance (IR), with clinical manifestations related to reproductive changes 4, development of diabetes mellitus (DM2) and obesity. This research aims to understand the profile of women with DM 2 before the age of 35 and the factors that can lead to this condition. Methodology: This study was carried out through an online survey made to women diagnosed with PCOS, and under 35 years of age. It was developed in a virtualized way via the GoogleForms® platform due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a survey on the presence of risk factors for DM 2, such as overweight and diet, sedentary lifestyle and sleep quality; in groups of women with diabetic and non-diabetic PCOS for comparison purposes. Results and discussion: A total of 198 women answered the questionnaire, divided into Diabetic (DM) and non-diabetic (NDM). The DM group was the one with the highest BMI (above 30), and the one that most declared to follow nutritional guidelines. Physical activity did not differ between groups. The DM group was the one who reported sleeping later (after 11 pm) when compared to the NDM group. Overweight is an important factor for the advent of DM 2 in this group, and nutritional guidelines are not so effective, due to the difficulty in adhering to the guidelines. The habit of sleeping late implies changes that lead to increased IR via oxidative stress, contributing to obesity and DM 2. Conclusions: Obesity is a decisive factor for the precocity of DM 2 in women with PCOS, and its condition is multifactorial, associated with following nutritional guidelines, physical activity and sleep quality. Avoiding the precocity of DM 2 in this group involves this understanding.

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Introducción: El síndrome de ovario poliquístico (SOP) es un trastorno de origen endocrinológico de alta prevalencia en mujeres en edad fértil, afectando aproximadamente entre el 6 y el 16% de la población femenina, de acuerdo con diversos criterios diagnósticos 1- 4 . Este síndrome se asocia con hiperandrogenismo y resistencia a la insulina (RI), con manifestaciones clínicas relacionadas con cambios reproductivos 4, desarrollo de diabetes mellitus (DM2) y obesidad. Esta investigación tiene como objetivo conocer el perfil de las mujeres con DM 2 antes de los 35 años y los factores que pueden conducir a esta condición. Metodología: Este estudio se realizó a través de una encuesta online realizada entre mujeres diagnosticadas con SOP y menores de 35 años. Fue desarrollado de manera virtualizada a través de la plataforma GoogleForms® debido a la pandemia de COVID-19. Se realizó una encuesta sobre la presencia de factores de riesgo para DM 2, como sobrepeso y alimentación, sedentarismo y calidad del sueño; en grupos de mujeres diabéticas y no diabéticas con síndrome de ovario poliquístico, con fines de comparación. Resultados y discusión: Respondieron al cuestionario un total de 198 mujeres, divididas en diabéticas (DM) y no diabéticas (NDM). El grupo DM fue el que presentó un IMC más elevado (superior a 30), y el que más declaró seguir las pautas nutricionales. La actividad física no difirió entre los grupos. El grupo DM fue el que reportó dormir más tarde (después de las 11:00 pm) en comparación con el grupo NDM. El sobrepeso indica que es un factor importante en la aparición de DM 2 en este grupo, siendo las pautas nutricionales no tan efectivas, en gran parte por la dificultad para cumplirlas. El hábito de dormir tarde implica cambios que conducen a un aumento de la RI vía estrés oxidativo, contribuyendo a la obesidad y la DM 2. Conclusiones: La obesidad es un factor decisivo en la aparición temprana de la DM 2 en mujeres con SOP, y su condición es multifactorial, asociado con el seguimiento de pautas nutricionales, actividad física y calidad del sueño. Evitar la precocidad de la DM 2 en este grupo requiere esta comprensión.

RESUMEN

Introdução: Endometriose é uma patologia pélvica crônica de caráter inflamatório e estrogênio-dependente. Manifesta-se em quatro tipos de estágio (EI, EII, EIII e EIV), caracterizados pelos números de lesões. Tem indicações farmacológicas recomendadas se baseadas nos estágios, sendo EI/EII sintomático com AINES e/ou uso de anticonceptivos de uso contínuo; e EIII/EIV com fármacos análogos de GnRH. O estilo de vida dessas mulheres é impactado pela dor, que altera a rotina e vida afetivo/sexual contribuindo para quadros de ansiedade. O presente estudo se norteia pela questão "qual impacto na ansiedade de mulheres com endometriose, quando não ocorrem indicações farmacológicas recomendadas para os estágios que se encontra? Logo, o objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os efeitos do tratamento medicamentoso não recomendado e risco de ansiedade. Metodologia: Levantamento de pacientes com diagnóstico de Endometriose, cadastradas no Banco de Dados do Projeto agrupadas em estágios de tratamentos farmacológicos similares (EI/EII e EIII/EIV). O relato de ansiedade, com diagnóstico médico e pós endometriose foi a variável dependente em estudo. As variáveis independentes (ou influenciadoras) foram [1] Estágio da doença, [2] Farmacoterapia recomendada (FR) ou não (FNR) e [3] esquema medicamentoso empregado (classes e combinações). Estatística feitas por chi quadrado e Fischer. Resultados: Do total de 375 mulheres, 274 apresentavam ansiedade. Destas, 170 estavam no grupo IFR; sendo 141 no agrupamento EI/EII, e 29 mulheres no EIII/EIV. No que se refere ao grupo IFNR, teve se um n=104 mulheres, sendo apenas 1 nos EI/EII e 103 nos EIII/EIV. Os casos de FNR estão mais presentes em EIII/EIV, com 90% dos casos (IC 95%, p<0,05). O esquema terapêutico mais presente foi AINEs em monoterapia, sendo 65% (IC 95%, p<0,05) em Estágio inadequado. Notou-se uma correlação positiva entre FNR e quadros de ansiedade, principalmente quando se empregava a monoterapia com AINEs (IC 95%, p<0,05). Conclusão: Dificuldades de acesso a especialistas para diagnóstico e aos medicamentos do EIII/EIV podem ser as causas, que serão investigadas em estudos futuros.

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Introduction: Endometriosis is a chronic pelvic pathology with an inflammatory and estrogen-dependent nature. It manifests itself in four types of stages (EI, EII, EIII and EIV), characterized by the number of lesions. It has recommended pharmacological indications based on the stages, being symptomatic EI/EII with NSAIDs and/or use of continuous contraceptives; and EIII/EIV with GnRH analogue drugs. The lifestyle of these women is impacted by pain, which alters their routine and emotional/sexual life, contributing to anxiety. The present study is guided by the question "what impact on the anxiety of women with endometriosis, when there are no recommended pharmacological indications for the stage they are in?" Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of non-recommended drug treatment and the risk of anxiety. Methodology: Survey of patients diagnosed with Endometriosis, registered in the Project Database grouped into stages of similar pharmacological treatments (EI/EII and EIII/EIV). The report of anxiety, with medical diagnosis and post-endometriosis was the dependent variable under study. The independent (or influencing) variables were [1] Stage of the disease, [2] Pharmacotherapy recommended (FR) or not (FNR) and [3] medication regimen used (classes and combinations). Statistics made by chi square and Fischer. Results: Of the total of 375 women, 274 had anxiety. Of these, 170 were in the IFR group; 141 in the EI/EII group, and 29 women in the EIII/EIV group. Regarding the IFNR group, there were n=104 women, with only 1 in EI/EII and 103 in EIII/EIV. FNR cases are more present in EIII/EIV, with 90% of cases (95% CI, p<0.05). The most common therapeutic regimen was NSAIDs as monotherapy, with 65% (95% CI, p<0.05) in an inadequate stage. A positive correlation was noted between FNR and anxiety, especially when using monotherapy with NSAIDs (95% CI, p<0.05). Conclusion: Difficulties in accessing specialists for diagnosis and EIII/EIV medications may be the causes, which will be investigated in future studies.

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Introducción: La endometriosis es una patología pélvica crónica de naturaleza inflamatoria y estrógeno-dependiente. Se manifiesta en cuatro tipos de estadios (EI, EII, EIII y EIV), caracterizados por el número de lesiones. Tiene indicaciones farmacológicas recomendadas según los estadios, siendo EI/EII sintomática con AINE y/o uso de anticonceptivos continuos; y EIII/EIV con fármacos análogos de GnRH. El estilo de vida de estas mujeres se ve impactado por el dolor, lo que altera su rutina y su vida emocional/sexual, contribuyendo a la ansiedad. El presente estudio se guía por la pregunta "¿qué impacto tiene en la ansiedad de las mujeres con endometriosis, cuando no existen indicaciones farmacológicas recomendadas para las etapas en las que se encuentra? Por tanto, el objetivo de este estudio es evaluar los efectos del tratamiento farmacológico no recomendado y el riesgo de ansiedad. Metodología: Encuesta a pacientes diagnosticadas de Endometriosis, registradas en la Base de Datos del Proyecto agrupadas en etapas de tratamientos farmacológicos similares (EI/EII y EIII/EIV). El reporte de ansiedad, con diagnóstico médico y post-endometriosis fue la variable dependiente en estudio. Las variables independientes (o influyentes) fueron [1] Estadio de la enfermedad, [2] Farmacoterapia recomendada (FR) o no (FNR) y [3] régimen de medicación utilizado (clases y combinaciones). Estadística realizada por chi cuadrado y Fischer. Resultados: Del total de 375 mujeres, 274 presentaron ansiedad. De ellos, 170 estaban en el grupo IFR; 141 en el grupo EI/EII y 29 mujeres en el grupo EIII/EIV. En cuanto al grupo IFNR, hubo n=104 mujeres, siendo sólo 1 en EI/EII y 103 en EIII/EIV. Los casos de FNR están más presentes en EIII/EIV, con un 90% de los casos (IC 95%, p<0,05). El régimen terapéutico más común fue el de AINE en monoterapia, con un 65% (IC 95%, p<0,05) en estadio inadecuado. Se observó una correlación positiva entre la FNR y la ansiedad, especialmente cuando se utilizaba monoterapia con AINE (IC del 95%, p<0,05). Conclusión: Las dificultades para acceder a especialistas para el diagnóstico y a los medicamentos EIII/EIV pueden ser las causas, que serán investigadas en futuros estudios.

RESUMEN

Sheep meet production systems require roughage feed of good nutritional quality. However, the production of sorghum or corn silage, besides expensive, also depends on large cultivable areas and favorable weather conditions. Thus, agro-industrial residues have stood out as a feed alternative that contribute to the reduction of production costs and to the conservation of the environment. Fragments of the ruminal mucosa of 30 healthy lambs fed with agro-industrial residues and slaughtered with a final weight of 36 kg were analyzed by light and scanning electron microscopy. We observed that the coproducts grape residue and wet brewery residue affected the shape, dimensions, and cytoarchitecture of the rumen epithelium in contrast to traditional sorghum silage. The rumen papillae of lambs fed grape waste were larger, and their epithelium was thinner when compared to the papillae of lambs fed wet brewery waste and sorghum silage. It can be assumed that the increased mucosal surface area of the rumen contributed to greater weight gain and reduced time to slaughter. The use of a greater variety of agro-industrial residues as a substitute for traditional feedstuffs contributes to the increase in animal protein production in many countries, making the confinement of sheep more viable and sustainable.

Asunto(s)

Alimentación Animal , Dieta , Ovinos , Animales , Dieta/veterinaria , Alimentación Animal/análisis , Residuos Industriales , Rumen/metabolismo , Ensilaje

RESUMEN

There is increasing pressure for innovative methods to treat compromised and difficult-to-heal wounds. Consequently, new strategies are needed for faster healing, reducing infection, hydrating the wound, stimulating healing mechanisms, accelerating wound closure, and reducing scar formation. In this scenario, lectins present as good candidates for healing agents. Lectins are a structurally heterogeneous group of glycosylated or non-glycosylated proteins of non-immune origin, which can recognize at least one specific monosaccharide or oligosaccharide specific for the reversible binding site. Cell surfaces are rich in glycoproteins (glycosidic receptors) that potentially interact with lectins through the number of carbohydrates reached. This lectin-cell interaction is the molecular basis for triggering various changes in biological organisms, including healing mechanisms. In this context, this review aimed to (i) provide a comprehensive overview of relevant research on the potential of vegetable lectins for wound healing and tissue regeneration processes and (ii) discuss future perspectives.

Asunto(s)

Lectinas de Plantas , Piel , Humanos , Piel/patología , Cicatrización de Heridas , Cicatriz/patología , Lectinas

RESUMEN

Chronic exposure to stress is a non-adaptive situation that is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), especially superoxide anion (SA). This accumulation of ROS produces damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which activate chronic inflammatory states and behavioral changes found in several mood disorders. In a previous study, we observed that an imbalance of SA triggered by rotenone (Ro) exposure caused evolutionarily conserved oxi-inflammatory disturbances and behavioral changes in Eisenia fetida earthworms. These results supported our hypothesis that SA imbalance triggered by Ro exposure could be attenuated by lithium carbonate (LC), which has anti-inflammatory properties. The initial protocol exposed earthworms to Ro (30 nM) and four different LC concentrations. LC at a concentration of 12.85 mg/L decreased SA and nitric oxide (NO) levels and was chosen to perform complementary assays: (1) neuromuscular damage evaluated by optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), (2) innate immune inefficiency by analysis of Eisenia spp. extracellular neutrophil traps (eNETs), and (3) behavioral changes. Gene expression was also evaluated involving mitochondrial (COII, ND1), inflammatory (EaTLR, AMP), and neuronal transmission (nAchR α5). LC attenuated the high melanized deposits in the circular musculature, fiber disarrangement, destruction of secretory glands, immune inefficiency, and impulsive behavior pattern triggered by Ro exposure. However, the effects of LC and Ro on gene expression were more heterogeneous. In summary, SA imbalance, potentially associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, appears to be an evolutionary component triggering oxidative, inflammatory, and behavioral changes observed in psychiatric disorders that are inhibited by LC exposure.

Asunto(s)

Oligoquetos , Estrés Oxidativo , Humanos , Animales , Especies Reactivas de Oxígeno/metabolismo , Oligoquetos/genética , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Litio/farmacología , Rotenona/toxicidad , Superóxidos/metabolismo , Encéfalo/metabolismo , Superóxido Dismutasa/metabolismo , Catalasa/metabolismo

RESUMEN

ABSTRACT Interstitial keratitis is an inflammation of the corneal stroma without epithelium or endothelium involvement. The underlying causes are mostly infectious or immune mediated. Brazil has one of the highest incidence rates of tuberculosis in the world. Tuberculosis is considered one of the causes of interstitial keratitis. Malnutrition and anemia are risk factors of the disseminated disease. This is a case report of a 10-year-old child who presented with decreased visual acuity and a clinical diagnosis of bilateral interstitial keratitis and sclero-uveitis. The patient had been treated with topical steroids with partial improvement. Examinations revealed severe iron deficiency anemia, negative serologies for human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis, positivity for cytomegalovirus- and herpes simplex-specific IgG, and purified protein derivative of 17 mm. During the follow-up, the patient presented with tonic-clonic seizures, and magnetic resonance imaging findings suggested a central nervous system tuberculoma. Interstitial keratitis improvement was observed after specific tuberculosis treatment. This is the first case report describing the association of interstitial keratitis and central nervous system tuberculoma.

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RESUMO A ceratite intersticial é uma inflamação do estroma corneano sem envolvimento epitelial ou endotelial causada principalmente por doenças infecciosas e imunomediadas. O Brasil tem altas taxas de tuberculose que deve ser lembrada como causa de ceratite intersticial. Desnutrição e anemia são fatores de risco da forma disseminada da tuberculose. Este é um relato de uma criança de 10 anos com redução de acuidade visual e diagnóstico clínico de ceratite intersticial bilateral e esclerouveíte. O paciente obteve melhora parcial da ceratite com corticoide tópico. Exames laboratoriais mostraram anemia ferropriva grave, sorologias negativas para HIV e sífilis; IgM negativo e IgG positivo para citomegalovírus e herpes simplex e PPD positivo (17 mm). Ele evoluiu com crises tônico-clônicas e a ressonância nuclear magnética revelou tuberculoma do sistema nervoso central. A melhora da ceratite intersticial foi observada após tratamento para tuberculose. Este é o primeiro caso que descreve a associação de ceratite intersticial e tuberculoma do sistema nervoso central.

RESUMEN

Physical and psychological stress modulates the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, and the redox and inflammatory systems. Impairments in these systems have been extensively reported in major depression (MD) patients. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the effects of the intranasal administration of interleukin-4 (IL-4) in mice with depressive-like behavior induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for 28 days. On the 28th day, mice received IL-4 intranasally (1 ng/mouse) or vehicle (sterile saline), and after 30 min, they were submitted to behavioral tests or euthanasia for blood collection and removal of the adrenal glands, axillary lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, prefrontal cortices (PFC), and hippocampi (HC). A single administration of IL-4 reversed CUMS-induced depression-like behavior in the tail suspension test and splash test, without evoking locomotor changes. IL-4 administration reduced the plasma levels of corticosterone and the increased weight of suprarenal glands in stressed mice. Moreover, IL-4 restored the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1ß), IL-4, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) in the PFC and HC and modulated oxidative stress markers in these brain structures in stressed mice. Our results showed for the first time the antidepressant-like effect of IL-4 through the modulation of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. The potential effect of IL-4 administered intranasally arises as an innovative strategy for MD treatment.

Asunto(s)

Depresión , Interleucina-4 , Ratones , Animales , Depresión/psicología , Enfermedades Neuroinflamatorias , Administración Intranasal , Estrés Oxidativo , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Factor Neurotrófico Derivado del Encéfalo/metabolismo , Hipocampo

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Aristolochia triangularis Cham. has been used in Brazilian traditional medicine for various therapeutic purposes, including as a leaf-based infusion for diabetes management. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study was designed to chemically characterize an infusion of in natura A. triangularis leaves and evaluate the in vivo anti-hyperglycemic properties of this infusion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chemical composition was examined using liquid-liquid extraction procedure, chromatographic methods, NMR, and LC-MS/MS. The in vivo anti-hyperglycemic activity of the freeze-dried infusion of A. triangularis leaves (Inf-L-At) was assessed using oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Initially, normoglycemic male rats were pre-treated with orally administered Inf-L-At at doses of 62.5, 125, and 250 mg/kg for two consecutive days. On the day of the OGTT, fasting animals received a glucose load (4 g/kg) 30 min after treatment with Inf-L-At, and the blood glucose levels were verified at 15, 30, 60, and 180 min. Intestinal maltase, lactase, and sucrase activities and muscle and liver glycogen contents were also assessed after the OGTT. RESULTS: Inf-L-At extract led to glycemic reduction with no dose-response at 15, 30, and 60 min comparable to that of the antidiabetic drug glibenclamide and was accompanied by an increase in hepatic and muscle glycogen contents. Additionally, there was a significant statistically decrease in the in vitro activity of disaccharidases. Maltase and sucrase activities were inhibited at all doses, whereas lactase activity was inhibited only at 62.5 and 250 mg/kg. In total, 75 compounds were found in the infusion, including seven new ones, (7S*,8S*,7ꞌS*,8ꞌR*)-4,4ꞌ-dihydroxy-3,3ꞌ-dimethoxy-7,9ꞌ-epoxylignan-7ꞌ-ol; 4ꞌ-hydroxy-3ꞌ-methoxy-3,4-methylenedioxy-7,9ꞌ-epoxylignan-9,7ꞌ-diol; triangularisines A, B, and C; N-ethyl-N-methyl-affineine; and N-methyl pachyconfine, and one previously not described as a natural product, epi-secoisolariciresinol monomethyl ether. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrated the anti-hyperglycemic activity of the infusion from A. triangularis leaves and showed that it is a rich source of lignoids, alkaloids, and glycosylated flavonoids, which are known to exhibit antidiabetic effects and other biological properties that can be beneficial for patients with chronic hyperglycemia, thus certifying the popular use of this herbal drink.

Asunto(s)

Aristolochia , Ratas , Masculino , Animales , alfa-Glucosidasas , Extractos Vegetales/uso terapéutico , Cromatografía Liquida , Brasil , Espectrometría de Masas en Tándem , Hipoglucemiantes/uso terapéutico , Hojas de la Planta/química , Lactasa , Sacarasa , Glucemia

RESUMEN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Cochlospermum regium is well-known as "Algodãozinho do cerrado" in folk Brazilian medicine, and is used to fight infections, inflammation and skin disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY: To identify the phytochemical constituents and the effects of the ethanolic extract of C. regium leaves (EECR) on inflammation and pain, and the effects of C. regium gel (GEECR) on wound healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Animals were treated with EECR (30-300 mg/kg) or GEECR (1.25 and 2.5%) and studies were conducted using carrageenan-induced pleurisy and paw edema tests, formalin-induced pain model, and excision wound model. RESULTS: In total, 25 compounds, including quercitrin, methyl gallate, and 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloylhexose, with highest detectability were identified. The treatments reduced leukocyte migration, nitric oxide production, protein extravasation, edema, mechanical hyperalgesia, pain in both phases (neurogenic and inflammatory), cold hypersensitivity, and improved wound closure and tissue regeneration. CONCLUSIONS: The present findings established the anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and wound healing potential of the leaves of C. regium, confirming the potential therapeutic effect of this plant.

Asunto(s)

Bixaceae , Extractos Vegetales , Animales , Bixaceae/química , Extractos Vegetales/farmacología , Extractos Vegetales/uso terapéutico , Extractos Vegetales/análisis , Hojas de la Planta/química , Etanol/química , Inflamación/tratamiento farmacológico , Dolor/tratamiento farmacológico , Edema/inducido químicamente , Edema/tratamiento farmacológico , Carragenina , Analgésicos/efectos adversos

RESUMEN

Interstitial keratitis is an inflammation of the corneal stroma without epithelium or endothelium involvement. The underlying causes are mostly infectious or immune mediated. Brazil has one of the highest incidence rates of tuberculosis in the world. Tuberculosis is considered one of the causes of interstitial keratitis. Malnutrition and anemia are risk factors of the disseminated disease. This is a case report of a 10-year-old child who presented with decreased visual acuity and a clinical diagnosis of bilateral interstitial keratitis and sclero-uveitis. The patient had been treated with topical steroids with partial improvement. Examinations revealed severe iron deficiency anemia, negative serologies for human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis, positivity for cytomegalovirus- and herpes simplex-specific IgG, and purified protein derivative of 17 mm. During the follow-up, the patient presented with tonic-clonic seizures, and magnetic resonance imaging findings suggested a central nervous system tuberculoma. Interstitial keratitis improvement was observed after specific tuberculosis treatment. This is the first case report describing the association of interstitial keratitis and central nervous system tuberculoma.

Asunto(s)

Queratitis Herpética , Queratitis , Tuberculoma , Tuberculosis , Niño , Humanos , Queratitis/tratamiento farmacológico , Tuberculosis/complicaciones , Tuberculosis/patología , Sustancia Propia/patología , Tuberculoma/complicaciones , Tuberculoma/patología , Encéfalo , Queratitis Herpética/complicaciones , Queratitis Herpética/tratamiento farmacológico , Queratitis Herpética/patología

RESUMEN

O Diabetes mellitus (DM) é uma doença crônica que apresentou um crescente aumento em sua prevalência, principalmente de DM II em mulheres com Síndrome do Ovário Policístico (SOP). Dentro deste parâmetro, o estudo verificou não só fatores de risco modificáveis ­ sobrepeso e sedentarismo, mas também fatores como a ansiedade, identificada principalmente durante a pandemia, a qual resultou em efeitos sobre a saúde mental dessas mulheres. Sendo assim, o objetivo do estudo é conhecer a influência da ansiedade no tratamento da DM II em jovens com SOP, durante a pandemia. A metodologia foi realizada em modelo de estudo observacional entre o período de junho de 2020 a outubro de 2021, via prontuários do INOVA-Secretaria Municipal de Joinville, onde foram qualificadas mulheres da Atenção Primária do Município de Joinville-SC portadoras de DM II e com idade igual ou inferior a 30 anos. Um total de 44 mulheres atendendo aos requisitos iniciais de inclusão. Como resultado, verificou-se a influência do Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) sobre a glicemia pela mediada, tendo-se dois grupos (IMC>30 e IMC<30), sem se constatar diferença significativa. Entretanto, nas análises dos Grupos Ansiedade (GAN) e Não Ansiedade (GNAN), observou-se que o GAN concentra as participantes com glicemias mais elevadas. Portanto, conclui-se que, a ansiedade afeta condições que interferem no controle glicêmico (sistema endócrino, manejo comportamental), se tratando de uma condição a ser mais bem manejada na DM2, o que abre discussão para a reorganização da atenção à saúde mental na atenção primária à saúde nos pós pandemia.

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Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that has shown an increasing increase in its prevalence, especially DM II in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Within this parameter, the study verified not only modifiable risk factors ­ overweight and sedentary lifestyle, but also factors such as anxiety, identified mainly during the pandemic, which resulted in effects on the mental health of these women. Therefore, the objective of the study is to understand the influence of anxiety on the treatment of DM II in young people with PCOS, during the pandemic. The methodology was carried out in an observational study model between the period from June 2020 to October 2021, via medical records from INOVA-Joinville Municipal Secretariat, where women from Primary Care in the Municipality of Joinville-SC who had DM II and with aged 30 years or less. A total of 44 women met the initial inclusion requirements. As a result, the influence of the Body Mass Index (BMI) on glycemia was verified through mediation, with two groups (BMI>30 and BMI<30), without finding a significant difference. However, in the analyzes of the Anxiety (GAN) and Non-Anxiety (GNAN) Groups, it was observed that the GAN concentrates participants with higher blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is concluded that anxiety affects conditions that interfere with glycemic control (endocrine system, behavioral management), being a condition to be better managed in DM2, which opens discussion for the reorganization of mental health care in primary health care in the post-pandemic period.

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La diabetes mellitus (DM) es una enfermedad crónica que ha mostrado un aumento creciente en su prevalencia, especialmente la DM II en mujeres con Síndrome de Ovario Poliquístico (SOP). Dentro de ese parámetro, el estudio verificó no sólo factores de riesgo modificables ­sobrepeso y sedentarismo­, sino también factores como la ansiedad, identificados principalmente durante la pandemia, que resultaron en efectos sobre la salud mental de estas mujeres. Por tanto, el objetivo del estudio es comprender la influencia de la ansiedad en el tratamiento de la DM II en jóvenes con SOP, durante la pandemia. La metodología se realizó en un modelo de estudio observacional entre el período de junio de 2020 a octubre de 2021, a través de historias clínicas de INOVA- Secretaría Municipal de Joinville, donde participaron mujeres de Atención Primaria del Municipio de Joinville-SC que tenían DM II y con 30 años. años o menos. Un total de 44 mujeres cumplieron con los requisitos de inclusión inicial. Como resultado, se verificó mediante mediación la influencia del Índice de Masa Corporal (IMC) sobre la glucemia, con dos grupos (IMC>30 e IMC<30), sin encontrar diferencia significativa. Sin embargo, en los análisis de los Grupos de Ansiedad (GAN) y No Ansiedad (GNAN), se observó que el GAN concentra a los participantes con niveles más altos de glucosa en sangre. Por lo tanto, se concluye que la ansiedad afecta condiciones que interfieren en el control glucémico (sistema endocrino, manejo conductual), siendo una condición a ser mejor manejada en la DM2, lo que abre discusión para la reorganización de la atención a la salud mental en la atención primaria de salud en el pos- período pandémico.

RESUMEN

Bartonella henselae is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes cat scratch disease (CSD), as well as bacteremia, endocarditis, and other clinical presentations. CSD remains one of the most common infections caused by bacteria in the genus Bartonella, and it is transmitted to humans through a scratch or cat bite. Vaccination and more efficient diagnostic methods would represent a promising and sustainable alternative measure for CSD control in humans and animals. Here, we described the in silico analyses and design of three recombinant chimeric proteins (rC1, rC2, and rC3), for use in the control of CSD. The chimeras were constructed with epitopes identified from the sequences of the GroEL, 17 kDa, P26, BadA, Pap31, OMP 89, and OMP 43, previously described as the most important B. henselae antigens. The rC1, rC2, and rC3 were expressed and purified using a heterologous system based on Escherichia coli and reacted with antibodies present in the sera of humans naturally infected. The chimeric proteins were used to immunize mice using Freund adjuvant, and the humoral immune response was evaluated. Animals immunized with rC1 and rC3 showed a significant IgG antibodies response from the 28th day (P < 0.05), and the animals immunized with the rC2 from the 35th day (P < 0.05) remained until the 56th day of experimentation, with a titer of 1:3200 (P < 0.05), 1:1600 (P < 0.05) and 1:1600 (P < 0.05) from rC1, rC2, and rC3, respectively. Significant production of IgA and IgG1 isotype was detected in animals immunized with rC1 and rC2 proteins. Additionally, analysis using 13 serum samples from naturally infected patients showed that the proteins are recognized by antibodies present in sera, reinforcing the possibility of using these chimeras for CSD control. KEY POINTS: • The recombinant chimeras were expressed in Escherichia coli with 37 kDa (rC1), 35 kDa (rC2), and 38 kDa (rC3). • Animals immunized with rC1, rC2, and rC3 showed significant antibody response. • The chimeras were recognized by the sera of naturally infected patients.

Asunto(s)

Bartonella henselae , Enfermedad por Rasguño de Gato , Humanos , Animales , Ratones , Enfermedad por Rasguño de Gato/diagnóstico , Enfermedad por Rasguño de Gato/prevención & control , Bartonella henselae/genética , Epítopos/genética , Proteínas Recombinantes de Fusión/genética , Escherichia coli/genética

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Some studies have suggested that mitochondrial dysfunction and a superoxide imbalance could increase susceptibility to chronic stressful events, contributing to the establishment of chronic inflammation and the development of mood disorders. The mitochondrial superoxide imbalance induced by some molecules, such as rotenone, could be evolutionarily conserved, causing behavioral, immune, and neurological alterations in animals with a primitive central nervous system. OBJECTIVE: Behavioral, immune, and histological markers were analyzed in Eisenia fetida earthworms chronically exposed to rotenone for 14 days. METHODS: Earthworms were placed in artificial soil containing 30 nM of rotenone distributed into a plastic cup that allowed the earthworms to leave and return freely into the ground. Since these organisms prefer to be buried, the model predicted that the earthworms would necessarily have to return to the rotenone-contaminated medium, creating a stressful condition. The effect on survival behavior in the immune and histological body wall and ventral nervous ganglia (VNG) structures, as well as gene expression related to inflammation and mitochondrial and neuromuscular changes. RESULTS: Rotenone-induced loss of earthworm escape behavior and immune alterations indicated a chronic inflammatory state. Some histological changes in the body wall and VNG indicated a possible earthworm reaction aimed at protecting against rotenone. Overexpression of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene (nAChR α5) in neural tissues could also help earthworms reduce the degenerative effects of rotenone on dopaminergic neurons. CONCLUSION: These data suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction could be an evolutionarily conserved element that induces inflammatory and behavioral changes related to chronic stress.

Asunto(s)

Oligoquetos , Receptores Nicotínicos , Contaminantes del Suelo , Animales , Oligoquetos/metabolismo , Superóxidos/metabolismo , Superóxidos/farmacología , Rotenona/toxicidad , Contaminantes del Suelo/análisis , Contaminantes del Suelo/metabolismo , Contaminantes del Suelo/farmacología , Suelo/química , Plásticos/metabolismo , Plásticos/farmacología , Inflamación/inducido químicamente , Receptores Nicotínicos/metabolismo