OxInflammatory Responses in the Wound Healing Process: A Systematic Review.

Significant sums are spent every year to find effective treatments to control inflammation and speed up the repair of damaged skin. This study investigated the main mechanisms involved in the skin wound cure. Consequently, it offered guidance to develop new therapies to control OxInflammation and infection and decrease functional loss and cost issues. This systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines, with a structured search in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science databases, analyzing 23 original studies. Bias analysis and study quality were assessed using the SYRCLE tool (Prospero number is CRD262 936). Our results highlight the activation of membrane receptors (IFN-δ, TNF-α, toll-like) in phagocytes, especially macrophages, during early wound healing. The STAT1, IP3, and NF-kß pathways are positively regulated, while Ca2+ mobilization correlates with ROS production and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This pathway activation leads to the proteolytic cleavage of caspase-1, releasing IL-1ß and IL-18, which are responsible for immune modulation and vasodilation. Mediators such as IL-1, iNOS, TNF-α, and TGF-ß are released, influencing pro- and anti-inflammatory cascades, increasing ROS levels, and inducing the oxidation of lipids, proteins, and DNA. During healing, the respiratory burst depletes antioxidant defenses (SOD, CAT, GST), creating a pro-oxidative environment. The IFN-δ pathway, ROS production, and inflammatory markers establish a positive feedback loop, recruiting more polymorphonuclear cells and reinforcing the positive interaction between oxidative stress and inflammation. This process is crucial because, in the immune system, the vicious positive cycle between ROS, the oxidative environment, and, above all, the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome inappropriately triggers hypoxia, increases ROS levels, activates pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibits the antioxidant action and resolution of anti-inflammatory cytokines, contributing to the evolution of chronic inflammation and tissue damage.

Ozone Exposure Controls Oxidative Stress and the Inflammatory Process of Hepatocytes in Murine Models.

(1) Background: Ozone exposure is a promising tool for treating liver damage since it is known to control the release of free radicals and increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes. The objective is to investigate the main intracellular pathways activated after exposure to ozone, considering the dosage of antioxidant enzymes and markers of oxidative stress. (2) Methods: This systematic review was performed based on the PRISMA guidelines and using a structured search in MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool. (3) Results: Nineteen studies were selected. The results showed that the exposure to ozone has a protective effect on liver tissue, promoting a decrease in inflammatory markers and a reduction in oxidative stress in liver tissue. In addition, ozone exposure also promoted an increase in antioxidant enzymes. The morphological consequences of controlling these intracellular pathways were reducing the tissue inflammatory process and reducing areas of degeneration and necrosis. (4) Conclusions: Ozone exposure has a beneficial effect on models of liver injury through the decrease in oxidative stress in tissue and inflammatory markers. In addition, it regulates the Nrf2/ARE antioxidant pathway and blocks the NF-κB inflammatory pathway.

Cutaneous Redox Senescence.

Our current understanding of skin cell senescence involves the role of environmental stressors (UV, O3, cigarette smoke, particulate matter, etc.), lifestyle (diet, exercise, etc.) as well as genetic factors (metabolic changes, hormonal, etc.). The common mechanism of action of these stressors is the disturbance of cellular redox balance characterized by increased free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and when these overload the intrinsic antioxidant defense system, it can lead to an oxidative stress cellular condition. The main redox mechanisms that activate cellular senescence in the skin involve (1) the oxidative damage of telomeres causing their shortening; (2) the oxidation of proteomes and DNA damage; (3) an a in lysosomal mass through the increased activity of resident enzymes such as senescence-associated ß-galactosidase (SA-ß-gal) as well as other proteins that are products of lysosomal activity; (4) and the increased expression of SASP, in particular pro-inflammatory cytokines transcriptionally regulated by NF-κB. However, the main targets of ROS on the skin are the proteome (oxi-proteome), followed by telomeres, nucleic acids (DNAs), lipids, proteins, and cytoplasmic organelles. As a result, cell cycle arrest pathways, lipid peroxidation, increased lysosomal content and dysfunctional mitochondria, and SASP synthesis occur. Furthermore, oxidative stress in skin cells increases the activity of p16INK4A and p53 as inhibitors of Rb and CDks, which are important for maintaining the cell cycle. p53 also promotes the inactivation of mTOR-mediated autophagic and apoptotic pathways, leading to senescence. However, these markers alone cannot establish the state of cellular senescence, and multiple analyses are encouraged for confirmation. An updated and more comprehensive approach to investigating skin senescence should include further assays of ox-inflammatory molecular pathways that can consolidate the understanding of cutaneous redox senescence.

Impact of plant extracts on hepatic redox metabolism upon lead exposure: a systematic review of preclinical in vivo evidence.

The liver is a central target organ of heavy metals toxicity, and secondary metabolites of several plant species are suggested to attenuate lead (Pb)-induced hepatotoxicity through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. We used a systematic review framework to map the impact of plant extracts and bioactive secondary metabolites on immunological markers and liver redox metabolism in preclinical models of Pb exposure. This is a systematic review performed according to PRISMA guidelines. The structured research of publications was done through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases, selecting and analyzing 41 original studies included via the eligibility criteria. Evidence indicates that Pb-exposure increases reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) production by δ-aminolevulinic acid auto-oxidation, xanthine dehydrogenase, and xanthine oxidase upregulation. Pb exposure also inhibits antioxidant enzymes, potentiating ROS/NOS levels and reactive cell damage. Plant extracts rich in flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, anthocyanins, and vitamins exerted hepatoprotective effects by chelating and decreasing Pb bioaccumulation. In addition, plant extracts reinforce exogenous and endogenous antioxidant defenses, attenuating liver oxidative stress and cell death. The lack of blinded evaluators and randomized experimental groups were the main sources of bias identified, which need to be controlled in toxicological studies aimed at identifying natural products applied to the prevention or treatment of Pb poisoning.

The relevance of the use of plant extracts on testicular cells: A systematic review.

This review aims to establish an association between traditional and scientific knowledge to allow the evaluation of the effectiveness of medicinal plants, as well as their risks based on the testicular microenvironment. A systematic search was performed using PRISMA guidelines. The descriptors were structured based on search filters built for three domains: Animals, Plants, and Testis. The filters on the PubMed/Medline platform were constructed using a hierarchical distribution of the MeSH Terms. Methodological quality assessments were performed using the SYRCLE risk bias tool. Data on testicular cells, hormones and biochemistry, sperm, and sexual behavior were evaluated and compared. The search came out with 2644 articles, and 36 articles met the inclusion criteria and were used in this review. The included studies analyzed testicular cells from murine models treated with crude plant extracts. Plant extracts act directly on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and/or directly on testicular cells, inhibiting and stimulating the reproductive process, thus causing alterations in fertility rates. Apiaceae and the Cucurbitaceae families are the most used in male reproductive biology experiments, being Apiaceae described as sexual stimulants, while Cucurbitaceae are the main sources of deleterious effects on the male reproductive system.

Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Skin Regenerative Potential of Secondary Metabolites from Plants of the Brassicaceae Family: A Systematic Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Preclinical Evidence (Biological Activities Brassicaceae Skin Diseases).

The Brassicaceae family constitutes some of the most well-studied natural products in the world, due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and pro-regenerative properties as well as their ubiquitous distribution across the world. To evaluate the potential efficacy of the Brassicaceae family in the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders and wounds, based on preclinical evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies. This systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines, using a structured search on the PubMed-Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science platforms. The studies included were those that used murine models and in vitro studies to investigate the effect of Brassicaceae on skin disorders. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined through SYRCLE's RoB tool. Brassicaceae have shown positive impacts on inflammatory regulation of the skin, accelerating the wound healing process, and inhibiting the development of edema. The studies showed that the Brassicaceae family has antioxidant activity and effects on the modulation of cyclooxygenase 2 and the nuclear factor kappa ß (NFκß) pathway. The secondary metabolites present in Brassicas are polyphenols (68.75%; n = 11), terpenes/carotenoids (31.25%; n = 5), and glycosylates (25%; n = 4), which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory, healing, and antioxidant effects. In addition, the current evidence is reliable because the bias analysis showed a low risk of bias. Our review indicates that compounds derived from Brassicaceae present exceptional potential to treat inflammatory skin diseases and accelerate cutaneous wound healing. We hope that our critical analysis can help to expedite clinical research and to reduce methodological bias, thereby improving the quality of evidence in future research. The registration number on the Prospero platform is CRD42021262953.

Hydroalcoholic extract of Remijia ferruginea accelerates the closure of skin wounds by modulating tissue morphology and antioxidant profile: An in vitro and in vivo study.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Remijia ferruginea DC. (Rubiaceae) (syn. Cinchona ferruginea A.St.-Hil.) is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of wounds, fever and malaria. AIM: This study investigated in vitro the proliferative and antioxidant effects of hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of R. ferruginea (HERF) and in vivo the healing effect of ointment based on HERF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The plant extract was characterized by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Cell proliferation assays and in vitro antioxidant activity were performed. In in vivo assays, wound contraction ax was evaluated, as well as histological analyzes such as cellularity, proportion of blood vessels and collagen type I and III index. In addition, analyzes of the antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT and GST were performed. RESULTS: Our results showed in the chromatographic analysis that catechin, rutin and quercetin were the main phenolic compounds in the plant extract and may be responsible for the antioxidant and proliferative effects (p < 0.05). In addition, these compounds were found in higher concentration in leaves collected in spring. The ointment containing HERF was able to modulate tissue morphology, increasing cell proliferation, blood vessels, being able to stimulate the production of collagen fibers type I and III, (p < 0.05) contributing to scar tissue maturation and resistance. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicated that the three doses of HERF tested (1%, 3% and 5%) can modulate the skin repair process, but the best effects were observed after exposure to the highest dose.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) supplementation increases butyrate synthesis and reduces inflammatory cells, attenuating the formation of aberrant crypt foci in BALB/c mice induced to pre-neoplastic lesions.

The development of colorectal cancer involves some morphological changes, and in the initial stage, pre-neoplastic lesions called aberrant crypt foci (ACF) appear. Thus, an intervention with sources of bioactive compounds such as Hibiscus sabdariffa L., rich in phenolic compounds and anthocyanins, could attenuate the risk of developing these lesions due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 5% and 10% supplementation of dehydrated H. sabdariffa calyces (DHSC) during the development of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced preneoplastic lesions in male BALB/c mice. The characterization of DHSC was carried out. The in vivo experiment lasted 12 weeks, and the animals were randomly divided into 3 experimental groups: the control group (CON) and the supplemented groups with 5% DHSC and 10% DHSC. The activities of liver enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase were determined. In addition, ACF, short chain fatty acids (SCFA), presence of inflammatory infiltrates, goblet cells and leukocytes in the colonic mucosa were quantified. There was a significant reduction in ACF and the presence of inflammatory infiltrates in the colon of animals in groups 5DHSC and 10DHSC. In addition, the 10DHSC group showed an increase in the activity of the catalse enzyme, in the production of butyrate and in the presence of NK cells in the colon, in addition to more hypertrophied goblet cells. Based on these findings, it is suggested that DHSC supplementation may be recommended to attenuate cellular responses in the early stage of preneoplastic lesions.

Morphological adaptations during development of the kidneys in Vampire bats.

Tissue changes during embryonic and postnatal development are critical for the success of physiological processes later in mammalian life. Dietary transition from milk to a variety of other food items is one of the factors inducing these changes in mammal species. Blood is utilized as food by only three species of vampire bats among all living mammals. Considering its high protein content, this unique diet is known to induce several metabolic changes, including fasting susceptibility. However, changes in the renal function to meet the excretory needs associated to the blood diet are unknown. Here we aimed at investigating morphological alterations in vampires' kidneys during embryonic and post-natal development in order to better understand the evolutionary adaptations allowing sanguivory. Common vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus) were captured and had their kidneys removed for histological, morphometrical and stereological analysis. Our results showed increased glomerular area and higher glomerular and uriniferous tubules volumetric densities in adults compared to developing bats. These results, together with a higher Renal Somatic Index and a thicker inner medulla also reported for adults, support renal hypertrophy due to increased renal function in blood-feeding vampires as compared to the earlier life stages. We also report a lower foot process density and its different arrange inside the glomerular capsule in adults, indicating an adaptation to a larger extracellular volume formed by increased glomerular filtration. Taken together, kidney morphological changes reported here for vampire bats may reflect in adults' adaptations to a monotrophic strategy.

Effects of Curcumin Supplementation on Inflammatory Markers, Muscle Damage, and Sports Performance during Acute Physical Exercise in Sedentary Individuals.

Exhaustive and acute unusual physical exercise leads to muscle damage. Curcumin has been widely studied due to the variety of its biological activities, attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, it has shown positive effects on physical exercise practitioners. However, there is no literature consensus on the beneficial effects of curcumin in acute physical activities performed by sedentary individuals. Therefore, we systematically reviewed evidence from clinical trials on the main effects of curcumin supplementation on inflammatory markers, sports performance, and muscle damage during acute physical exercises in these individuals. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases, and only original studies were analyzed according to the PRISMA guidelines. The included studies were limited to supplementation of curcumin during acute exercise. A total of 5 studies were selected. Methodological quality assessments were examined using the SYRCLE's risk-of-bias tool. Most studies have shown positive effects of curcumin supplementation in sedentary individuals undergoing acute physical exercise. Overall, participants supplemented with curcumin showed less muscle damage, reduced inflammation, and better muscle performance. The studies showed heterogeneous data and exhibited methodological limitations; therefore, further research is necessary to ensure curcumin supplementation benefits during acute and high-intensity physical exercises. Additionally, mechanistic and highly controlled studies are required to improve the quality of the evidence and to elucidate other possible mechanisms. This study is registered with Prospero number CRD42021262718.

Oxidative and local histopathological response on skin wound of horses due to Amblyomma sculptum tick parasitism.

Amblyomma sculptum is frequently observed parasitizing horses, responsible for economic losses, damage to the host''s skin and transmission of pathogens. The oxidative stress profile and inflammatory mechanisms involved in this parasitism remain poorly studied. Thus, this study aimed to assess the histopathological changes and oxidative profile responses of horses in the attachment site of A. sculptum to find variations that indicate resistance and susceptibility between the breeds to this tick, based on the hypothesis that resistant animals have a greater inflammatory response and lesser number of attached ticks. We analyzed female horses of two breeds, Mangalarga Marchador and Breton Postier, naturally infested by Amblyomma sculptum. The ticks were counted and full-thickness excisional skin wounds of 10 mm were made on the perineal region on the attachment site of partially engorged females for histological and biochemical analyzes. The occurrence of the tick on the skin caused an increase in cellularity, inflammatory infiltrate, mast cells, pyknotic nuclei, and changes in the fibrous components of the matrix. The negative correlation observed between tick infestation and inflammatory response indicated that animals with greater inflammatory response tend to have less tick infestation. The oxidative stress markers, MDA, PCN and NO not present great variation; however, between the antioxidant enzymes levels, SOD was higher in tick attachment of Breton Postier skin, this may mean that these animals had higher oxidative enzymatic activity and consequently less tissue damage, while the GST dropped in the attachment sites compared to the control, which may indicate that animals were in a state of significant oxidative stress or raises the question of the possibility of enzymatic sequestration by ticks. No significant differences were found in the resistance of the two breeds since most of the analyzes varied due to the presence or absence of the tick attached to the skin. We draw attention to the importance of studying characteristics of the animal's antioxidant responses to the tick and the action of tick saliva on antioxidant enzymes and ROS because these characteristics are interdependent with the inflammatory response.

Evaluation of the efficacy of probiotic VSL#3 and synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based product in reducing oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in mice induced to colorectal carcinogenesis.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of probiotic VSL#3 isolated or associated with a yacon-based product (synbiotic) on oxidative stress modulation and intestinal permeability in an experimental model of colorectal carcinogenesis. Forty-five C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: control (standard diet AIN-93 M); probiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M and multispecies probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU), and synbiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M with yacon-based product, 6% fructooligosaccharides and inulin, and probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU). The experimental diets were provided for 13 weeks. The probiotic and the yacon-based product showed antioxidant activity, with the percentage of DPPH radical scavenging equal to 69.7 ± 0.4% and 74.3 ± 0.1%, respectively. These findings contributed to reduce hepatic oxidative stress: the control group showed higher concentration of malondialdehyde (1.8-fold, p = 0.007 and 1.5-fold, p = 0.035) and carbonylated protein (2-fold, p = 0.008 and 5.6-fold, p = 0.000) compared to the probiotic and synbiotic groups, respectively. Catalase enzyme activity increased 1.43-fold (p = 0.014) in synbiotic group. The crypt depth increased 1.2-fold and 1.4-fold with the use of probiotic and synbiotic, respectively, compared to the control diet (p = 0.000). These findings corroborate the reduction in intestinal permeability in the probiotic and synbiotic groups, as measured by the percentage of urinary lactulose excretion (CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × PRO: 0.44 ± 0.05%, p = 0.048; and CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × SYN: 0.41 ± 0.12%, p = 0.043). In conclusion, the probiotic and synbiotic showed antioxidant activity, which contributed to the reduction of oxidative stress markers. In addition, they protected the mucosa from damage caused by chemical carcinogen and reduced intestinal permeability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The relationship between intestinal health and the occurrence of various organic disorders has been demonstrated in many studies. The use of probiotics and prebiotics is currently one of the main targets for modulation of intestinal health. We demonstrated that the use of a commercial mix of probiotic bacteria (VSL#3) isolated or associated with a yacon-based prebiotic, rich in fructooligosaccharides and inulin, is able to reduce the oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in a colorectal carcinogenesis model. These compounds have great potential to be used as a food supplement, or as ingredients in the development of food products.

Relevance of the Isoflavone Absorption and Testicular Function: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Evidence.

Isoflavone is a phytoestrogen found in different types of food that can act as endocrine disrupters leading to testicular dysfunction. Currently, fragmented data on the action of this compound in the testicles make it difficult to assess its effects to define a safe dose. Thus, we systematically reviewed the preclinical evidence of the impact of isoflavone on testicular function. We also determined which form (aglycones or glycosylated) was the most used, which allowed us to understand the main biological processes involved in testicular function after isoflavone exposure. This systematic review was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines using a structured search on the biomedical databases MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science, recovering and analyzing 22 original studies. The bias analysis and the quality of the studies were assessed by the criteria described in the risk of bias tool developed by SYRCLE (Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation). The aglycones and glycosylated isoflavones proved to be harmful to the reproductive health, and the glycosylates at doses of 50, 100, 146, 200, 300, 500, and 600 mg/kg, in addition to 190 and 1000 mg/L, appear to be even more harmful. The main testicular pathologies resulting from the use of isoflavones are associated with Leydig cells resulting from changes in molecular functions and cellular components. The most used isoflavone to evaluate testicular changes was the genistein/daidzein conjugate. The consumption of high doses of isoflavones promotes changes in the functioning of Leydig cells, inducing testicular changes and leading to infertility in murine models.

Cadmium Exposure and Testis Susceptibility: a Systematic Review in Murine Models.

It is known that cadmium induces damage to the testis. However, the significant cadmium impact on the testicular architecture and the mechanisms involved in this process are not clear. Besides, the relationship between dose, route, and time of exposure and injuries remains poorly understood. Thus, we aimed to assess whether cadmium exposure in any dose, route, and time of exposure causes significant alteration in the testicular tissue of murine models, as well as the main mechanisms involved. We performed a structured search on the Medline/PubMed and Scopus databases to retrieve studies published until September 2018. The results were organized into an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework. Also, a bias analysis of included studies was performed. We included 37 studies, and most of them identified significant histopathologies in both tubule and intertubule regarding routes, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The damages were observed after the first hours of exposure, mainly vascular damages suggesting that vasculature failure is the primary mechanism. The AOP showed that potential molecular initiating events may mimic and interfere with essential elements disrupting proteins (structural and antioxidants), change in the oxidative phosphorylation enzyme activities, and gene expression alteration, which lead to reproductive failure (adverse outcome). Analysis of methodological quality showed that the current evidence is at high risk of bias. Despite the high risk of bias, cadmium triggers significant lesions in the testis of murine models, regarding routes, in a dose- and time-dependent manner, mainly due to vascular changes. Therefore, cadmium is a risk factor for male reproductive health.

Peptides from Animal Origin: A Systematic Review on Biological Sources and Effects on Skin Wounds.

BACKGROUND: Skin wounds are closely correlated with opportunistic infections and sepsis risk. Due to the need of more efficient healing drugs, animal peptides are emerging as new molecular platforms to accelerate skin wound closure and to prevent and control bacterial infection. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the preclinical evidence on the impact of animal peptides on skin wound healing. In addition, we carried out a critical analysis of the studies' methodological quality. Main Methods. This systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines, using a structured search on the PubMed-Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science platforms to retrieve studies published until August 25, 2020 at 3 : 00 pm. The studies included were limited to those that used animal models, investigated the effect of animal peptides with no association with other compounds on wound healing, and that were published in English. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined through the SYRCLE's RoB tool. RESULTS: Thirty studies were identified using the PRISMA workflow. In general, animal peptides were effective in accelerating skin wound healing, especially by increasing cellular proliferation, neoangiogenesis, colagenogenesis, and reepithelialization. Considering standardized methodological quality indicators, we identified a marked heterogeneity in research protocols and a high risk of bias associated with limited characterization of the experimental designs. CONCLUSION: Animal peptides show a remarkable healing potential with biotechnological relevance for regenerative medicine. However, rigorous experimental approaches are still required to clearly delimit the mechanisms underlying the healing effects and the risk-benefit ratio attributed to peptide-based treatments.

Preclinical relevance of probiotics in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review.

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is among the most prevalent metabolic diseases in the world and may result in several long-term complications. The crosstalk between gut microbiota and host metabolism is closely related to T2DM. Currently, fragmented data hamper defining the relationship between probiotics and T2DM. This systematic review aimed at investigating the effects of probiotics on T2DM in animal models. We systematically reviewed preclinical evidences using PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus databases, recovering 24 original articles published until September 27th, 2019. This systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. We included experimental studies with animal models reporting the effects of probiotics on T2DM. Studies were sorted by characteristics of publications, animal models, performed analyses, probiotic used and interventions. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined through the SYRCLE's Risk of Bias tool. Probiotics improved T2DM in 96% of the studies. Most studies (96%) used Lactobacillus strains, and all of them led to improved glycaemia. All studies used rodents as models, and male animals were preferred over females. Results suggest that probiotics have a beneficial effect in T2DM animals and could be used as a supporting alternative in the disease treatment. Considering a detailed evaluation of the reporting and methodological quality, the current preclinical evidence is at high risk of bias. We hope that our critical analysis will be useful in mitigating the sources of bias in further studies.

Croton urucurana Baillon stem bark ointment accelerates the closure of cutaneous wounds in knockout IL-10 mice.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Croton urucurana Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) is a plant used in Brazilian popular medicine for the treatment of wound healing, inflammatory diseases, gastritis, infections, and hemorrhoids. AIM: The present study aimed to evaluate the in vivo wound healing activity of an ointment based on ethanolic extract of C. urucurana stem bark, at concentrations of 5% and 10%, and to relate it with compounds that could be associated with this activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Analyses by FIA-ESI-IT-MSn were carried out to investigate the chemical composition of C. urucurana. Knockout IL-10 (n = 60) mice and wild type C57 (n = 12) mice were separated into 6 groups to evaluate the wound healing activity. Knockout IL-10 mice: SAL (0.9% saline); BAS (ointment base); SS (1% silver sulfadiazine); CR1 (ointment with extract of C. urucurana 5%); CR2 (ointment with extract of C. urucurana 10%); and wild mice C57: SALC57 (Saline 0.9%). A circular wound with 10 mm in diameter was generated on the dorsal of the animals. Tissue specimen of the wounds were removed on days 7 and 14 of the treatment for histopathological, oxidative status and analyses of pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines in scar tissue. RESULTS: In the phytochemical profile, twelve proanthocyanidins were identified (in the form of monomers, dimers, trimers, and tetramers), based on (epi)catechin and (epi)gallocatechin. Furthermore, two quercetin derivatives and two alkaloids were detected. The groups treated with CR1 and CR2 ointments presented higher rate of wound closure, increased total number of cells, mast cells, blood vessels and higher deposition of type III and I collagen. In addition, they showed increased amount of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL- 2 and IFN-γ), and anti-inflmatory cytokines (IL-4), on the 7th day of treatment. CONCLUSION: The results presented support the popular use of preparations based on the bark of C. urucurana as a healing compound.

Effects of the amount and type of carbohydrates used in type 2 diabetes diets in animal models: A systematic review.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is among the most prevalent diseases in the world, affecting over 420 million people. The disease is marked by a poor metabolic effect of insulin leading to chronic hyperglycaemia, which can result in microvascular complications. It is widely known that postprandial glycaemia is reliant on the total carbohydrate content of a meal. However, the importance of the amount and the source of these carbohydrates remains controversial due to mechanisms other than insulin secretion. Oxidative stress, inflammation, pyruvate production and the quality of the intestinal microbiota, resulting in plasma lipopolysaccharides and short-chain fatty acids production, play an important role in blood sugar control and consequently in type 2 diabetes. Thus, we systematically reviewed the preclinical evidences on the impact of the amount and type of carbohydrate found in different diets and its influence on blood glucose levels in diabetic animals. We used a comprehensive and structured search in biomedical databases Medline (PubMed), Scopus and Web of Science, recovering and analyzing 27 original studies. Results showed that sucrose-rich diets deteriorated diabetic condition in animal models regardless of the total dietary carbohydrate content. On the other hand, fiber, particularly resistant starch, improved blood glucose parameters through direct and indirect mechanisms, such as delayed gastric emptying and improved gut microbiota. All studies used rodents as animal models and male animals were preferred over females. Improvements in T2DM parameters in animal models were more closely related to the type of dietary carbohydrate than to its content on a diet, i. e., resistant starch seems to be the most beneficial source for maintaining normoglycemia. Results show that current literature is at high risk of bias due to neglecting experimental methods.

Combination therapy with benznidazole and doxycycline shows no additive effect to monotherapy with benznidazole in mice infected with the VL-10 strain of the Trypanosoma cruzi.

BACKGROUND: Chagas heart disease is the most important clinical manifestation of Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Pharmacological therapies have been proposed aiming to reduce inflammatory response and cardiac damage in infected hosts. In this study, we investigated the use of doxycycline (Dox), in a sub-antimicrobial dose, in monotherapy and in combination with benznidazole (Bz) during the acute phase of infection with the VL-10 strain of T. cruzi, evaluating the therapeutic effect during the acute and chronic phases of the infection. METHODS AND RESULTS: C57BL/6 mice were treated for 20 days with Dox (30 mg/kg), Bz (100 mg/kg), or both drugs in combination starting 9 days after infection. Parasitemia was measured during the acute phase and the animals were monitored for 12 months, after which echocardiography analysis was performed. Blood samples were obtained from euthanized mice for CCL2, CCL5, IL-10 analysis, and cardiac fragments were collected for histopathological evaluation. Dox treatment did not ameliorate parasitological/inflammatory parameters but reduced the cardiac collagen neoformation (CN) in 35%. In contrast, Bz administration reduced parasitemia, plasma levels of CCL2 and CCL5, and cardiac infiltration during acute infection, and reduced the level of IL-10 and CN (95%) at 12 months. Dox was unable to improve ejection fraction, while Bz treatment ameliorated the ejection fraction. No additive effect was observed in combination therapy. CONCLUSION: Dox monotherapy is not effective in the acute or chronic phases of experimental cardiomyopathy induced by the VL-10 strain of T. cruzi. Furthermore, combination therapy with Dox does not potentiate the effects of Bz monotherapy.