RESUMO

Syagrus coronata, a native palm tree in the Caatinga domain, produces fixed oil (ScFO) used therapeutically and dietary by Northeast Brazilian communities. This study evaluated its anti-inflammatory potential of CFA-induced arthritis and its effect on behavioral parameters. In the acute model, ScFO at 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg showed edematogenic effects similar to indomethacin at 4 mg/kg (p > 0.05). In the arthritis model, 100 mg/kg ScFO treatment was comparable to indomethacin (4 mg/kg) (p > 0.05). TNF-α and IL-1ß levels were significantly reduced in ScFO-treated groups at 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, and the indomethacin group (4 mg/kg) versus the positive control (p > 0.05). Radiographs showed severe soft-tissue swelling and bone deformities in the control group, while the 100 mg/kg ScFO group had few alterations, similar to the indomethacin group. Histopathological analysis revealed intense lymphocytic infiltration in the control group, mild diffuse lymphocytic infiltration in the indomethacin group, and mild lymphoplasmacytic infiltration with focal polymorphonuclear infiltrates in the 100 mg/kg ScFO group. Behavioral analysis showed improved exploratory stimuli in ScFO and indomethacin-treated mice compared to the positive control (p > 0.05). ScFO demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in both acute and chronic arthritis models, reducing edema and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and improved exploratory behavior due to its analgesic properties.

Assuntos

Anti-Inflamatórios , Artrite Experimental , Adjuvante de Freund , Animais , Artrite Experimental/tratamento farmacológico , Artrite Experimental/patologia , Camundongos , Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Masculino , Óleos de Plantas/farmacologia , Arecaceae/química , Edema/tratamento farmacológico , Fator de Necrose Tumoral alfa/metabolismo , Interleucina-1beta/metabolismo , Óleo de Palmeira/farmacologia , Indometacina/farmacologia , Brasil , Relação Dose-Resposta a Droga

RESUMO

Punica granatum, popularly known as pomegranate, is a fruit tree with wide worldwide distribution, containing numerous phytochemicals of great medicinal value. The aim of the present study was to determine the phytochemical profile and antioxidant potential of a protein fraction (PF) derived from P. granatum sarcotesta which is rich in lectin. In addition, the acute oral toxicity, genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity of this protein fraction (PF) from P. granatum sarcotesta was measured. The phytochemical profile of PF was determined using HPLC. The in vitro antioxidant effect was assessed using the methods of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and DPPH and ABTS+ radical scavenging. Acute oral toxicity was determined in female Swiss mice administered a single dose of 2000 mg/kg. This PF was examined for genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity at doses of 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg, utilizing mouse peripheral blood cells. Phytochemical characterization detected a high content of ellagic acid and antioxidant capacity similar to that of ascorbic acid (positive control). PF was not toxic (LD50 >2000 mg/kg) and did not exert a genotoxic effect in mice. PF protected the DNA of peripheral blood cells against damage induced by cyclophosphamide. In conclusion, this PF fraction exhibited significant antioxidant activity without initiating toxic or genotoxic responses in mice.

Assuntos

Antioxidantes , Extratos Vegetais , Punica granatum , Animais , Camundongos , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Feminino , Extratos Vegetais/toxicidade , Extratos Vegetais/química , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Punica granatum/química , Lectinas/toxicidade , Testes de Mutagenicidade , Dano ao DNA/efeitos dos fármacos , Testes de Toxicidade Aguda

RESUMO

Wounds encompass physical, chemical, biological, induced damages to the skin or mucous membranes. In wound treatment, combating infections is a critical challenge due to their potential to impede recovery and inflict systemic harm on patients. Previously, the essential oil extracted from Psidium glaziovianum (PgEO) demonstrated antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory attributes, along with negligible oral toxicity. Hence, our study aimed to assess the effects of topically applying a gel formulation containing PgEO to excisional wounds in mice. Additionally, an in vitro antimicrobial assessment was conducted. The formulated gel underwent characterization and toxicological evaluation on erythrocytes, as well as a dermal irritation test. Its antimicrobial activity was tested against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi. Subsequently, an assessment of its efficacy in excisional wound healing was conducted in mice. The findings of this investigation highlight the gel's efficacy against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi. Moreover, this study underscores that the PgEO-gel treatment enhances skin wound healing, potentially due to its capacity to trigger antioxidant enzymes and suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the gel exhibited minimal toxicity to erythrocytes and skin irritation. These findings hold promise for prospective preclinical and clinical trials across diverse wound types. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the potential therapeutic applications of the gel formulation containing essential oil from P. glaziovianum in the context of wound healing.

Assuntos

Óleos Voláteis , Psidium , Humanos , Animais , Camundongos , Antibacterianos , Estudos Prospectivos , Bactérias Gram-Negativas , Bactérias Gram-Positivas , Cicatrização , Óleos Voláteis/farmacologia

RESUMO

Myrciaria floribunda is a plant that is distributed across different Brazilian biomes such as the Amazon, Caatinga, Cerrado, and Atlantic Forest, and it possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of the essential oil from M. floribunda leaves (MfEO) were examined in this study using mouse models. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was employed to describe the oil, and the results revealed that δ-cadinene, bicyclogermacrene, α-cadinol, and epi-α-muurolol predominated in the chemical profile. The oil stimulated a decrease in nociception in the chemical and thermal models used to evaluate acute antinociceptive activity. Findings from the use of pain pathway blockers to study the presumed underlying mechanism indicated opioid pathway activity. The anti-edematogenic effect, decreased cell migration, and generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines provided evidence of the anti-inflammatory potential of the essential oil from M. floribunda. According to this research, the essential oil from M. floribunda can effectively alleviate acute pain and inflammation.

Assuntos

Anti-Infecciosos , Óleos Voláteis , Camundongos , Animais , Óleos Voláteis/farmacologia , Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Anti-Inflamatórios/química , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Anti-Infecciosos/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/química , Analgésicos/farmacologia , Analgésicos/química , Folhas de Planta/química

RESUMO

Phytochemical analysis of Croton blanchetianus leaves was performed by. After that, a high performance liquid chromatography method was developed and validated for the determination of rutin in herbal drug and products of C. blanchetianus. The separation was achieved on a C18 column, and the mobile phase was composed of ultrapure water and methanol (acidified with trifluoroacetic acid) with a gradient of 0.8 ml/min. The method was validated following international guidelines. The chemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids. Among them rutin was used as the standard for validation. In the HPLC the presence of rutin was observed at 24.7 min. The method was robust, with no significant variations, and linear in the range evaluated with R2 > 0.99. Regarding the matrix effect, it was possible to prove the absence of interference of the constituents in the herbal drug. The precision was determined with a relative standard deviation of <1.34%. The recovery results were achieved between 89.29 and 101.21%. Furthermore, with partial validation, the method was proved to be suitable for the liquid extract, dry extract and effervescent granules. Therefore, this study demonstrated that the method is effective for the quality control analysis of C. blanchetianus leaves and products.

Assuntos

Croton , Rutina , Rutina/análise , Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Pressão/métodos , Folhas de Planta/química , Espectrometria de Massas em Tandem/métodos , Extratos Vegetais/química

RESUMO

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins with several bioactivities, including antimicrobial properties. Portulaca elatior is a species found at Brazilian Caatinga and data on the biochemical composition of this plant are scarce. The present work describes the purification of P. elatior leaf lectin (PeLL) as well as the assessment of its antimicrobial activity and toxicity. PeLL, isolated by chromatography on a chitin column, had native liquid charge and subunit composition evaluated by electrophoresis. Hemagglutinating activity (HA) of PeLL was determined in the presence of carbohydrates or divalent cations, as well as after heating and incubation at different pH values. Changes in the lectin conformation were monitored by evaluating intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence and using the extrinsic probe bis-ANS. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Pectobacterium strains and Candida species. The minimal inhibitory (MIC), bactericidal (MBC), and fungicidal (MFC) concentrations were determined. Finally, PeLL was evaluated for in vitro hemolytic activity in human erythrocytes and in vivo acute toxicity in mice (5 and 10 mg/kg b.w. per os). PeLL (pI 5.4; 20 kDa) had its HA was inhibited by mannose, galactose, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Mn2+. PeLL HA was resistant to heating at 100 °C, although conformational changes were detected. PeLL was more active in the acidic pH range, in which no conformational changes were observed. The lectin presented MIC and MBC of 0.185 and 0.74 µg/mL for all Pectobacterium strains, respectively; MIC of 1.48 µg/mL for C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei; MIC and MFC of 0.74 and 2.96 µg/mL for C. parapsilosis. No hemolytic activity or signs of acute toxicity were observed in the mice. In conclusion, a new, low-toxic, and thermostable lectin was isolated from P. elatior leaves, being the first plant compound to show antibacterial activity against Pectobacterium.

Assuntos

Anti-Infecciosos , Portulaca , Humanos , Animais , Camundongos , Lectinas , Anti-Infecciosos/toxicidade , Anti-Infecciosos/análise , Antibacterianos/toxicidade , Folhas de Planta/química , Testes de Sensibilidade Microbiana , Antifúngicos/farmacologia

RESUMO

This study assessed the effects of a mixed formulation containing Limosilactobacillus (L.) fermentum 139, L. fermentum 263, and L. fermentum 296 on cardiometabolic parameters, inflammatory markers, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) fecal contents, and oxidative stress in colon, liver, heart, and kidney tissues of female rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Female Wistar rats were allocated into control diet (CTL, n = 6), HFD (n = 6), and HFD receiving L. fermentum formulation (HFD-LF, n = 6). L. fermentum formulation (1 × 109 CFU/mL of each strain) was administered two twice a day for 4 weeks. Administration of L. fermentum increased acetate and succinate fecal contents and reduced hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia in rats fed a HFD (p < 0.05). Administration of L. fermentum decreased low-grade inflammation and improved antioxidant capacity along the gut, liver, heart, and kidney tissues in female rats fed a HFD (p < 0.05). Administration of L. fermentum prevented dyslipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress in colon, liver, heart, and kidney in female rats fed a HFD.

Assuntos

Doenças Cardiovasculares , Limosilactobacillus fermentum , Probióticos , Ratos , Feminino , Animais , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Ratos Wistar , Dieta Hiperlipídica/efeitos adversos , Probióticos/farmacologia , Inflamação/prevenção & controle , Anti-Inflamatórios

RESUMO

Eugenia pohliana DC.(Myrtaceae) is used in folk medicine by communities in Brazil. However, there are no reports on its biological activity. This is the first study to identify the components of E. pohliana essential oil (EpEO) and evaluate their antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in an in vivo model at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg. The essential oil (EO) was obtained by hydrodistillation, and the analysis was performed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Antinociceptive activity was evaluated by writhing tests, tail movement, and formalin (neurogenic and inflammatory pain); naloxone was used to determine the nociception mechanism. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by oedema and peritonitis tests. We found that (E)-ß-caryophyllene (BCP) (15.56%), δ-cadinene (11.24%) and α-cadinol (10.89%) were the major components. In the writhing test, there was a decrease in writing by 42.95-70.70%, in the tail movement, an increase in latency time by 69.12-86.63%, and in the formalin test, there was a reduction in pain neurogenic by 29.54-61.74%, and inflammatory pain by 37.42-64.87%. The antinociceptive effect of EpEO occurs through the activation of opioid receptors. In addition, a reduction in inflammation by 74.93‒81.41% was observed in the paw edema test and inhibition of the influx of leukocytes by 51.86‒70.38% and neutrophils by 37.74‒54.72% in the peritonitis test. It was concluded that EpEO has antinociceptive effect by the opioid pathway, as shown by the inhibitory effect of naloxone, and anti-inflammatory actions, and that its use does not cause hemolytic damage or behavioral change.

Assuntos

Eugenia , Myrtaceae , Óleos Voláteis , Peritonite , Camundongos , Animais , Eugenia/química , Óleos Voláteis/farmacologia , Óleos Voláteis/uso terapêutico , Nociceptividade , Analgésicos/uso terapêutico , Anti-Inflamatórios/uso terapêutico , Edema/induzido quimicamente , Edema/tratamento farmacológico , Dor/tratamento farmacológico , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Inflamação/tratamento farmacológico , Peritonite/tratamento farmacológico , Naloxona/uso terapêutico

RESUMO

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Eugenia uniflora (Myrtaceae) is a species native to Brazil and has a traditional use in the treatment of inflammation. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects, and the involvement of opioid receptors in the antinociceptive activity of extract and fractions from Eugenia uniflora leaves. MATERIALS AND METHODS: TLC and HPLC were used to characterize the spray-dried extract (SDE) and fractions. In the in vivo assays, Swiss (Mus musculus) mice were used. Carrageenan-induced hind-paw edema and carrageenan-induced peritonitis models were used to determine the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract (50, 100, or 200 mg/kg). Acetic acid-induced writhing, tail-flick, and formalin tests were used to determine the antinociceptive effect of the extract (50, 100, or 200 mg/kg). The aqueous (AqF) and ethyl acetate (EAF) fractions (6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg/kg) were then combined with naloxone to evaluate the involvement of opioid receptors in the antinociceptive activity. RESULTS: In this work, the TLC and HPLC analysis evidenced the enrichment of EAF, which higher concentration of gallic acid (5.29 ± 0.0004 %w/w), and ellagic acid (1.28 ± 0.0002 %w/w) and mainly myricitrin (8.64 ± 0.0002 %w/w). The extract decreased the number of total leukocytes and neutrophils in the peritoneal cavity (p < 0.05), at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg and showed significant inhibition in the increase of paw edema volume (p < 0.05). The treatment per oral route (doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) significantly reduced the nociceptive response in acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing (p < 0.05). The effect of the extract on the tail-flick test showed a significant increase in latency time of animals treated at doses of 200 and 100 mg/kg (p < 0.05). The extract and ethyl acetate fraction reduced the nociceptive effect in both phases of formalin at all tested doses. The naloxone reversed the antinociceptive effect of EAF, suggesting that opioid receptors are involved in mediating the antinociceptive activity of EAF of E. uniflora in the formalin test. CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrates the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of water: ethanol: propylene glycol spray-dried extract from E. uniflora leaves using in vivo pharmacological models in mice. Our findings suggest that spray-dried extract and ethyl acetate fraction exhibit peripheral and central antinociceptive activity with the involvement of opioid receptors that may be related to the presence of flavonoids, mainly myricitrin.

Assuntos

Eugenia , Ácido Acético/uso terapêutico , Analgésicos/farmacologia , Analgésicos/uso terapêutico , Animais , Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Anti-Inflamatórios/uso terapêutico , Carragenina , Edema/induzido quimicamente , Edema/tratamento farmacológico , Etanol/uso terapêutico , Camundongos , Naloxona/farmacologia , Dor/induzido quimicamente , Dor/tratamento farmacológico , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Propilenoglicóis/efeitos adversos , Receptores Opioides , Água

RESUMO

The purpose of this study was to analyses the influence of seasonal variation on the chemical composition and antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities of the essential oil (EO) extracted from the leaves of Eugenia pohliana. Chemical characterization of the samples - by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry - found 35 and 38 components for summer and winter, respectively, of the EO from E. pohliana leaves, totaling 47 different compounds. Analysis of antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS and TAC) revealed that the summer EO showed greater free radical scavenging capacity than the winter. Similarly, the summer EO exhibited superior antimicrobial potential (MIC=128-512 µg/mL and MMC=128-1024 µg/mL, compared to the winter EO (128-2048 µg/mL and 256-2048 µg/mL, respectively). Results showed that both oils had a low potential to cause hemolysis. This study provides new scientific evidence on the influence of seasonality on the pharmacological properties of E. pohliana leaves and its potential for the development of herbal medicines.

Assuntos

Anti-Infecciosos , Eugenia , Óleos Voláteis , Antibacterianos/farmacologia , Anti-Infecciosos/farmacologia , Antioxidantes/química , Radicais Livres , Testes de Sensibilidade Microbiana , Óleos Voláteis/química , Folhas de Planta/química , Estações do Ano

RESUMO

The rhizome of Microgramma vacciniifolia contains a lectin (carbohydrate-binding protein) called MvRL. Studies demonstrated that a MvRL-rich fraction did not show in vivo genotoxicity and acute toxicity in mice. This study aimed to evaluate the MvRL-rich fraction from M. vacciniifolia rhizome for antibacterial activity in vitro and in vivo as well as antitumor effect in vivo using the Ehrlich carcinoma model in mice. The fraction showed antibacterial activity against Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus with minimal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 31.2 to 125.0 â€‹µg/mL and minimal bactericidal concentrations from 62.5 to 200 â€‹µg/mL. The fraction was also effective in vivo against infection caused by these bacteria on Tenebrio molitor larvae considering the parameters evaluated. In regard to the antitumor activity, the treatments of Ehrlich carcinoma-bearing mice with the fraction at 100 and 200 â€‹mg/kg per os resulted in 62.58% and 75.43% of tumor inhibition, respectively. In conclusion, the MvRL-rich fraction showed in vivo antibacterial and antitumor activities and thus can be considered as an alternative of natural origin for the development of candidates for therapy.

RESUMO

Plants of the genus Psidium have been employed in "in natura" consumption and agroindustry, and owing to the diversity of phytochemicals, the development of new pharmaceutical forms has received remarkable research interest. In this study, the essential oil obtained from Psidium glaziovianum (PgEO) leaves were evaluated antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated in mouse models. Initially, PgEO was characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection, and the profile was dominated by sesquiterpene compounds. In the evaluation of acute antinociceptive activity (abdominal contortions induced by acetic acid, formalin, tail immersion, and hot plate tests), PgEO promoted a reduction in nociception in the chemical and thermal models. Additionally, the potential underlying mechanism was investigated using pain pathway blockers, and the results revealed a combined action of opioidergic and muscarinic pathways. The anti-inflammatory potential was confirmed by anti-edematogenic action, reduced cell migration, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and granuloma formation in chronic processes. This study provides evidence that PgEO can be effective for the treatment of pain and acute and chronic inflammation.

Assuntos

Óleos Voláteis , Psidium , Administração Oral , Analgésicos , Animais , Edema/induzido quimicamente , Edema/tratamento farmacológico , Inflamação/tratamento farmacológico , Camundongos , Óleos Voláteis/farmacologia , Dor/tratamento farmacológico , Extratos Vegetais , Folhas de Planta/química , Psidium/química

RESUMO

The ethanolic extract from Croton blanchetianus leaves has been shown to have antinociceptive activity in mice. Here, we investigated the antinociceptive activity of an ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) from this extract in mice and the possible pathways involved in the analgesic effect. Adverse effects on behavior and motor coordination were also evaluated. The EAF was characterized by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and evaluated (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg per os) in the acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing, formalin, hot plate, and tail immersion assays. Naloxone, atropine, glibenclamide, prazosin, or yohimbine was pre-administered to mice to investigate the involved pathways in the formalin test. The open-field, rotarod, and elevated plus-maze tests were used to assess behavior and locomotion. The main components of the EAF were quercetin-3-O-(2-rhamnosyl) rutinoside, hyperoside, quercetin rutinoside pentoside, and quercetin hexoside deoxyhexoside. EAF showed antinociceptive effects in all models and was effective against both neurogenic and inflammatory pain. The reversion of the effects in the formalin test by naloxone and atropine revealed that the EAF acted via the opioid and cholinergic systems. In the open-field test, the behavior of the animals treated with the EAF was like that of control, except at the highest dose, when hypnosis, eyelid ptosis, decreased walking, hygiene, and rearing behaviors were observed. No muscle relaxant effect was observed, but an anxiogenic effect was observed at all doses. This study provides new scientific evidence on the pharmacological properties of C. blanchetianus leaves and their potential for the development of phytomedicines with analgesic properties.

Assuntos

Croton , Euphorbiaceae , Analgésicos/farmacologia , Analgésicos/uso terapêutico , Analgésicos Opioides/farmacologia , Animais , Colinérgicos , Flavonoides , Camundongos , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Folhas de Planta

RESUMO

High-fat diet (HFD) consumption has been linked to dyslipidemia, low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress. This study investigated the effects of a mixed formulation with Limosilactobacillusfermentum 139, L. fermentum 263 and L. fermentum 296 on cardiometabolic parameters, fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) contents and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in colon and heart tissues of male rats fed an HFD. Male Wistar rats were grouped into control diet (CTL, n = 6), HFD (n = 6) and HFD with L. fermentum formulation (HFD-Lf, n = 6) groups. The L.fermentum formulation (1 × 109 CFU/mL of each strain) was administered twice a day for 4 weeks. After a 4-week follow-up, biochemical parameters, fecal SCFA, cytokines and oxidative stress variables were evaluated. HFD consumption caused hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, low-grade inflammation, reduced fecal acetate and propionate contents and increased biomarkers of oxidative stress in colon and heart tissues when compared to the CTL group. Rats receiving the L. fermentum formulation had reduced hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia, but similar SCFA contents in comparison with the HFD group (p < 0.05). Rats receiving the L. fermentum formulation had increased antioxidant capacity throughout the colon and heart tissues when compared with the control group. Administration of a mixed L. fermentum formulation prevented hyperlipidemia, inflammation and oxidative stress in colon and heart tissues induced by HFD consumption.

RESUMO

Microgramma vacciniifolia is broadly used in folk medicine but safety information is unavailable. Therefore, we evaluated the toxicity of a saline extract and a lectin-rich fraction of M. vacciniifolia rhizome. The extract showed hemolytic activity on mice erythrocytes at 1000 µg/mL, whereas the fraction promoted hemolysis (8.57-26.15%) at all tested concentrations (10-1000 µg/mL). Acute toxicity test in mice indicated an LD50 of >5000 mg/kg. Hematological alterations and increased serum alkaline phosphatase level were observed in the treated animals. Transaminases and urea levels increased in the groups treated with the extract or fraction at 5000 mg/kg. Leukocyte infiltration was observed in the liver of extract-treated animals and in the liver and lungs of mice treated with the fraction. The kidneys of animals treated with the fraction at 5000 mg/kg presented hydropic degeneration. The extract and fraction did not induce oxidative stress in the liver and did not show genotoxicity, as examined by micronucleus and comet assays. In conclusion, the preparations were not lethal to mice but caused some signs of toxicity, mainly the fraction. The results indicated the need to evaluate the toxicity of M. vacciniifolia rhizome in other models and in chronic assays.

Assuntos

Extratos Vegetais/toxicidade , Polypodiaceae , Rizoma , Animais , Lectinas , Camundongos , Testes de Toxicidade Aguda

RESUMO

The plant Moringa oleifera is used as food and medicine. M. oleifera flowers are source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants, and are used to treat inflammation and tumors. This work evaluated the antitumor activity of the M. oleifera flower trypsin inhibitor (MoFTI) in sarcoma 180-bearing mice. Swiss female mice were inoculated with sarcoma 180 cells. Seven days later, the animals were treated intraperitoneally for 1 week with daily doses of PBS (control) or MoFTI (15 or 30 mg/kg). For toxicity assessment, water and food consumption, body and organ weights, histological alterations, and blood hematological and biochemical parameters were measured. Treatment with MoFTI caused pronounced reduction (90.1%-97.9%) in tumor weight. The tumors of treated animals had a reduced number of secondary vessels and lower gauge of the primary vessels compared to the control. No significant changes were observed in water and food consumption or in body and organ weights. Histopathological analysis did not indicate damage to the liver, kidneys, and spleen. In conclusion, MoFTI showed antitumor potential, with no clear evidence of toxicity.

Assuntos

Antineoplásicos Fitogênicos/administração & dosagem , Moringa oleifera/química , Extratos Vegetais/administração & dosagem , Sarcoma 180/tratamento farmacológico , Inibidores da Tripsina/administração & dosagem , Animais , Linhagem Celular Tumoral , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Feminino , Flores/química , Humanos , Rim/efeitos dos fármacos , Fígado/efeitos dos fármacos , Camundongos , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos

RESUMO

Pilosocereus gounellei (Cactaceae) is used to treat wounds and inflammation. In this study, we evaluated whether the saline extract from its stem would have genotoxic or anti-genotoxic effects. In the genotoxicity evaluation, mice received the extract (500, 1,000, or 2,000 mg/kg) orally while negative and positive controls were treated with saline solution (0.9% NaCl) per os and cyclophosphamide (CPA, 80 mg/kg i.p.), respectively. In the anti-genotoxicity assay, using other animals, treatments were carried out by administering the extract (500, 1,000 or 2,000 mg/kg) or saline solution (negative control) per os and then CPA (80 mg/kg i.p.) 1 h later. Genotoxic effects were evaluated by micronucleus test and comet assay using peripheral blood and bone marrow cells. Oral administration of only the extract at 500 and 1,000 mg/kg did not result in genotoxicity. A slight increase in the incidence of micronucleus was observed at the highest dose (2,000 mg/kg). Administration of the extract before CPA reduced the micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCE) number by 49.07-71.43%, and DNA fragmentation in peripheral blood (85.04-94.44%) and bone marrow (87.43-92.70%) cells also decreased. In conclusion, when administered orally at the tested doses, the extract is genotoxically safe, being cautious in doses above 1,000 mg/kg, and has a protective effect against CPA-induced DNA damage.

RESUMO

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Pilosocereus gounellei is a plant found in the Brazilian Caatinga and is popular due to its traditional uses in the treatment of inflammation. The present study was conducted to investigate the sub-acute toxicity of the saline extract from the stem of P. gounellei. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the 28-day oral toxicity (through behavioral, biochemical, hematological, and morphological analysis) and the antipyretic activity of the extract in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single oral dose (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) was administered daily over 28 consecutive days to male and female mice. Body weight, food and water intake, blood biochemical and hematological parameters, and urine composition were recorded. Histopathological examinations of the liver, kidney, spleen, lungs, and heart were performed and oxidative stress in the organs was evaluated by lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and nitrite analysis. The antipyretic effect of the 500 mg/kg dose was assessed using a yeast-induced pyrexia model. RESULTS: Oral administration of the extract over 28 days did not affect body weight gain, food and water consumption, body temperature, and hematological parameters in male and female mice. Blood glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in male and female mice were reduced. Protein in the urine and histological alterations in both the liver and lungs were detected in male and female mice treated with the highest dose of the extract. SOD levels in the liver and the spleen increased significantly in both sexes, whereas lipid peroxidation decreased in the spleen of male mice. The extract also exerted an antipyretic effect after the first 60 min of the evaluation until the end of the observation duration (180 min). CONCLUSION: The saline extract from the stem of P. gounellei did not present significant toxic effects over 28 consecutive days and demonstrated antipyretic activity when administered orally. Moreover, the results suggest that the extract has potential hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects. Future studies are needed to investigate its pharmacological potential.

Assuntos

Antipiréticos/farmacologia , Cactaceae/química , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Administração Oral , Animais , Antipiréticos/administração & dosagem , Antipiréticos/isolamento & purificação , Glicemia/efeitos dos fármacos , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Relação Dose-Resposta a Droga , Feminino , Febre/tratamento farmacológico , Hipoglicemiantes/administração & dosagem , Hipoglicemiantes/isolamento & purificação , Hipoglicemiantes/farmacologia , Hipolipemiantes/administração & dosagem , Hipolipemiantes/isolamento & purificação , Hipolipemiantes/farmacologia , Peroxidação de Lipídeos/efeitos dos fármacos , Masculino , Camundongos , Extratos Vegetais/administração & dosagem , Extratos Vegetais/toxicidade , Superóxido Dismutase/metabolismo , Fatores de Tempo , Testes de Toxicidade Subcrônica

RESUMO

People broadly use medicinal plants although their safety and efficacy are often neglected. Several Cactaceae plants are used for medicinal purposes, but Pilosocereus gounellei (xique-xique) has been little studied for their pharmacological properties. In this study, a saline extract from Pilosocereus gounellei stem was evaluated for acute toxicity, effects on motor function, and antinociceptive activity in mice. Thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography revealed the presence of flavonoids and reducing sugars. No death of mice was noted with oral treatments at 2000 and 5000 mg/kg. Body weight gain, food intake, and water consumption were not affected with treatment at 2000 mg/kg. The number of segmented leukocytes was higher in the treated mice than in control, and reduced serum levels of cholesterol and triglycerides were detected after both extract treatments. No histological alterations in the liver, heart, lung, kidney, and spleen were detected. Open field and rotarod tests showed that the extract did not affect motor function and exploratory activity. Antinociceptive activity was detected in acetic acid-induced writhing, tail-immersion, and formalin tests, indicating interference with both non-inflammatory and inflammatory pain. In conclusion, the P. gounellei extract has antinociceptive activity in mice without showing toxicity and altering motor coordination.

Assuntos

Analgésicos/uso terapêutico , Cactaceae , Dor/tratamento farmacológico , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Ácido Acético , Analgésicos/toxicidade , Animais , Artemia/efeitos dos fármacos , Colesterol/sangue , Feminino , Formaldeído , Temperatura Alta/efeitos adversos , Masculino , Camundongos , Dor/etiologia , Extratos Vegetais/toxicidade , Caules de Planta/química , Desempenho Psicomotor/efeitos dos fármacos , Cloreto de Sódio/química , Triglicerídeos/sangue

RESUMO

This work evaluated an ethanolic extract from Morus alba leaves for toxicity to Artemia salina, oral toxicity to mice, and antimicrobial activity. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of coumarins, flavonoids, tannins, and triterpenes in the extract, which did not show toxicity to A. salina nauplii. No mortality and behavioral alterations were detected for mice treated with the extract (300 and 2000 mg/kg b.w.) for 14 days. However, animals that received the highest dose showed reduced MCV and MCHC as well as increased serum alkaline phosphatase activity. In treatments with the extract at both 300 and 2000 mg/kg, there was a reduction in number of leukocytes, with decrease in percentage of lymphocytes and increase in proportion of segmented cells. Histopathological analysis of organs from mice treated with the extract at 2000 mg/kg revealed turgidity of contorted tubules in kidneys, presence of leukocyte infiltration around the liver centrilobular vein, and high dispersion of the spleen white pulp. The extract showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis, and Aspergillus flavus. In conclusion, the extract contains antimicrobial agents and was not lethal for mice when ingested; however, its use requires caution because it promoted biochemical, hematological, and histopathological alterations.