Steroid-responsive myelitis in dogs - comparison with steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis

Background: Myelitis is the inflammation of the spinal cord parenchyma alone, whereas meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges. Steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis (SRMA) is a meningomyelitis in which the major lesions involve the meninges, not the spinal cord parenchyma, and respond well to glucocorticoid treatment. However, myelitis in dogs has rarely been reported, and myelitis with a good response to glucocorticoid treatment without relapse has not been reported. This report describes 5 cases of steroid-responsive myelitis (SRM) in dogs. Cases: Case 1. A 8-year-old intact female Cocker Spaniel presented with progressive nonambulatory paraplegia. Whole spinal parenchymal lesions were identified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Mononuclear pleocytosis with increased total protein levels was the only abnormal finding on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. Prednisolone (PDS) was administered followed by dose tapering according to therapeutic response. Cyclosporine was administered until the termination of PDS. Since then, no recurrence of neurological symptoms has been observed. Follow-up MRI and CSF analysis revealed resolution of previously observed abnormal findings. Case 2. A 2-year-old intact female Maltese presented with non-progressive paraparesis. A spinal parenchymal lesion in the lumbosacral region was observed on MRI. PDS was administered and slowly tapered at approximately 3-week intervals. No recurrence of neurological symptoms was observed after the treatment. Case 3. A 6-year-old intact female Miniature Pinscher presented with neck pain, along with leukocytosis and neutrophilia. Cervical spinal parenchyma lesions were revealed through MRI. Increased total protein concentration with mixed cell pleocytosis was observed on CSF analysis. Immunomodulatory therapy, similar to that in case 2, was initiated. A second MRI and CSF analysis revealed an improvement in the previously observed abnormalities. Case 4. A 2-year-old, intact female Toy Poodle presented with acute paraplegia and back pain. Lesions were observed in the spinal parenchyma at the T12-L3 levels on MRI. The treatment was conducted as in case 2. During treatment, neurological symptoms, including paraplegia and back pain, were not observed. Follow-up MRI revealed improvement in the spinal lesion. Case 5. A 6-month-old, castrated male Standard Poodle presented with progressive paraparesis. On MRI, lesions were observed in the T11-T13 regions. Immunomodulation therapy, similar to that in case 2, was initiated. No recurrence of neurological symptoms was observed after treatment initiation Discussion: SRM is similar to SRMA in terms of good steroid-responsiveness and noninfectious inflammation etiology; however, it does not exactly satisfy the diagnostic criteria for SRMA, nor does it progress similarly. The characteristics of SRM that do not satisfy the diagnostic criteria of SRMA include the absence of fever, C-reactive protein elevation, hyperglobulinemia, and relapse, and the presence of spinal parenchymal lesions without parenchymal or meningeal enhancement on MRI. It is also a seemingly different from spinal cord-only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin due to its better treatment response and prognosis. However, the dogs in the present report with SRM satisfied the diagnostic criteria for transverse myelitis in human patients. Therefore, SRM, including good steroid responsiveness and good prognosis without relapse, may represent a novel type of meningomyelitis.

Avaliação da fertilidade de ratos Wistar submetidos a tratamento crônico com Decanoato de Nandrolona: dados preliminares / Evaluation of the fertility of wistar rates submitted to chronic treatment with nandrolone decanoate: preliminary data

The search for the ideal body has been making people appeal increasingly to surgical intervention and medicine which can accelerate the aesthetic transformations that are so desired. Among these medicines, Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is being used, specially Nandrolone Decanoate (DECA), which has more anabolic than androgenic effects. However, it is not known at which point of the use of AAS can comprise fertility of male users. In this way, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of chronic administration of doses of Nandrolone Decanoate in male Wistar rat fertility. For such a matter was used 20 rats Wistar, which 16 were males and 4 females, adults, with 8 weeks old, weighing 250 to 350g. Males were divided into two groups: Control and DECA group. Based on the data preliminarily obtained, even though observing some macroscopics abnormalities in the testicles of rats treated with DECA, such as testicular atrophy, apparently these steroids do not affect the reproductive male health significatively at the point of comprising the capacity of fertilization.

Avaliação da fertilidade de ratos Wistar submetidos a tratamento crônico com Decanoato de Nandrolona: dados preliminares / Evaluation of the fertility of wistar rates submitted to chronic treatment with nandrolone decanoate: preliminary data

The search for the ideal body has been making people appeal increasingly to surgical intervention and medicine which can accelerate the aesthetic transformations that are so desired. Among these medicines, Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is being used, specially Nandrolone Decanoate (DECA), which has more anabolic than androgenic effects. However, it is not known at which point of the use of AAS can comprise fertility of male users. In this way, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of chronic administration of doses of Nandrolone Decanoate in male Wistar rat fertility. For such a matter was used 20 rats Wistar, which 16 were males and 4 females, adults, with 8 weeks old, weighing 250 to 350g. Males were divided into two groups: Control and DECA group. Based on the data preliminarily obtained, even though observing some macroscopics abnormalities in the testicles of rats treated with DECA, such as testicular atrophy, apparently these steroids do not affect the reproductive male health significatively at the point of comprising the capacity of fertilization.(AU)

Monitoring of progesterone and estrone fecal metabolites throughout gestation in ewes / Avaliação dos metabólitos fecais de progesterona e estrona em ovelhas durante a gestação

The aim of this study was to monitor the progesterone and fecal estrone metabolites throughout gestation in ewes correlating with the serum levels of these steroid hormones. Therefore, fecal and serum samples were collected from 5 weeks before mating and gestation until two weeks postparturition. Serum levels of progesterone and estrone and their fecal metabolites were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Serum and fecal hormonal patterns showed a significant correlation for both hormones (R = 0.8572, P < 0.001 for progesterone and R = 0.5893, P < 0.001 for estrone). The fecal progesterone metabolite levels showed significant increasing values among the three thirds of pregnancies, consistent with the serum levels and with the literature. Additionally, the prepartum peak of estrone in the fecal matrix was identified but without observation in the serum matrix due to the blood collection interval used. Therefore, this study demonstrated the viability of progesterone and estrone monitoring throughout gestation using fecal samples, making noninvasive longitudinal endocrine monitoring throughout gestation possible in this species.

O objetivo deste estudo foi monitorar os níveis de metabólitos fecais de progesterona e estrona ao longo da gestação em ovelhas, correlacionando-os com os níveis séricos desses hormônios esteroides. Assim, amostras de fezes e sangue foram colhidas de cinco ovelhas no período pré-cobertura e durante a gestação, até duas semanas após o parto. Os níveis séricos de progesterona e estrona e de seus metabólitos fecais foram mensurados por enzimaimunoensaio. Os perfis hormonais séricos e fecais apresentaram correlação positiva significativa para os dois hormônios (R = 0,8572, P < 0,001 para progesterona e R = 0,5893, P < 0,001 para estrona). Os níveis de metabólitos fecais de progesterona apresentaram valores significativamente crescente entre os terços da gestação, corroborando com os níveis séricos e com os relatos da literatura. Adicionalmente, foi possível evidenciar o pico pré-parto de estrona na matriz fecal, porém sem registro na matriz sérica, provavelmente devido ao intervalo de coletas aplicado. Deste modo, este estudo demonstrou a viabilidade do monitoramento dos níveis de progesterona e estrona durante a gestação em ovinos utilizando amostras fecais, possibilitando monitoramento endócrino longitudinal não invasivo durante a gestação nessa espécie.

Monitoring of progesterone and estrone fecal metabolites throughout gestation in ewes / Avaliação dos metabólitos fecais de progesterona e estrona em ovelhas durante a gestação

The aim of this study was to monitor the progesterone and fecal estrone metabolites throughout gestation in ewes correlating with the serum levels of these steroid hormones. Therefore, fecal and serum samples were collected from 5 weeks before mating and gestation until two weeks postparturition. Serum levels of progesterone and estrone and their fecal metabolites were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Serum and fecal hormonal patterns showed a significant correlation for both hormones (R = 0.8572, P < 0.001 for progesterone and R = 0.5893, P < 0.001 for estrone). The fecal progesterone metabolite levels showed significant increasing values among the three thirds of pregnancies, consistent with the serum levels and with the literature. Additionally, the prepartum peak of estrone in the fecal matrix was identified but without observation in the serum matrix due to the blood collection interval used. Therefore, this study demonstrated the viability of progesterone and estrone monitoring throughout gestation using fecal samples, making noninvasive longitudinal endocrine monitoring throughout gestation possible in this species.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi monitorar os níveis de metabólitos fecais de progesterona e estrona ao longo da gestação em ovelhas, correlacionando-os com os níveis séricos desses hormônios esteroides. Assim, amostras de fezes e sangue foram colhidas de cinco ovelhas no período pré-cobertura e durante a gestação, até duas semanas após o parto. Os níveis séricos de progesterona e estrona e de seus metabólitos fecais foram mensurados por enzimaimunoensaio. Os perfis hormonais séricos e fecais apresentaram correlação positiva significativa para os dois hormônios (R = 0,8572, P < 0,001 para progesterona e R = 0,5893, P < 0,001 para estrona). Os níveis de metabólitos fecais de progesterona apresentaram valores significativamente crescente entre os terços da gestação, corroborando com os níveis séricos e com os relatos da literatura. Adicionalmente, foi possível evidenciar o pico pré-parto de estrona na matriz fecal, porém sem registro na matriz sérica, provavelmente devido ao intervalo de coletas aplicado. Deste modo, este estudo demonstrou a viabilidade do monitoramento dos níveis de progesterona e estrona durante a gestação em ovinos utilizando amostras fecais, possibilitando monitoramento endócrino longitudinal não invasivo durante a gestação nessa espécie.(AU)

Evaluation of the effect of nandrolone decanoate on experimental spinal cord injury in rats

Background: Acute spinal cord injury, a common cause of neurological dysfunction in humans and animals, impairsmotor, sensory and autonomic functions and may result in permanent disability. Nandrolone decanoate (ND) is a steroidwidely studied for its predominantly anabolic effect and low androgenic potential. Several researchers have described thepositive interference of ND in neurological tissue, such as increased synthesis and release of neurotrophic substances, butto date no studies have evaluated the action of this steroid in acute spinal cord injury. The aim of this study was thereforeto evaluate the effect of ND in rats subjected to acute spinal cord injury.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-two young adult Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), weighing between 240 and 260 g,were divided into three groups. The first group (GNAN) (n=13) was subjected to acute spinal cord injury and treated withND; the control group (GCON) (n=13) was subjected to spinal cord injury without treatment; and the third group (GLAM)(n=6) underwent laminectomy without prior spinal cord injury, in order to control changes caused by the procedure. A 20g metal device was released from a height of 25 cm to produce the spinal cord injury. After exposing the spinal canal, a2-mm diameter metal rod was placed directly in contact with the spinal cord, and when the weight was released, the rodwas struck, causing the spinal cord injury. An intramuscular injection of 2 mg/kg of ND was administered the immediatepostoperative period. The animals were assessed to ascertain the recovery of their motor function on five occasions, namelyat 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 7 and 14 days after undergoing spinal cord injury. This assessment was performed using the Basso,Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) model. The animals were euthanized 14 days post-op and fragments of the spinal cord andurinary...

Evaluation of the effect of nandrolone decanoate on experimental spinal cord injury in rats

Background: Acute spinal cord injury, a common cause of neurological dysfunction in humans and animals, impairsmotor, sensory and autonomic functions and may result in permanent disability. Nandrolone decanoate (ND) is a steroidwidely studied for its predominantly anabolic effect and low androgenic potential. Several researchers have described thepositive interference of ND in neurological tissue, such as increased synthesis and release of neurotrophic substances, butto date no studies have evaluated the action of this steroid in acute spinal cord injury. The aim of this study was thereforeto evaluate the effect of ND in rats subjected to acute spinal cord injury.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-two young adult Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), weighing between 240 and 260 g,were divided into three groups. The first group (GNAN) (n=13) was subjected to acute spinal cord injury and treated withND; the control group (GCON) (n=13) was subjected to spinal cord injury without treatment; and the third group (GLAM)(n=6) underwent laminectomy without prior spinal cord injury, in order to control changes caused by the procedure. A 20g metal device was released from a height of 25 cm to produce the spinal cord injury. After exposing the spinal canal, a2-mm diameter metal rod was placed directly in contact with the spinal cord, and when the weight was released, the rodwas struck, causing the spinal cord injury. An intramuscular injection of 2 mg/kg of ND was administered the immediatepostoperative period. The animals were assessed to ascertain the recovery of their motor function on five occasions, namelyat 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 7 and 14 days after undergoing spinal cord injury. This assessment was performed using the Basso,Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) model. The animals were euthanized 14 days post-op and fragments of the spinal cord andurinary...(AU)

Protein identification from the parotoid macrogland secretion of Duttaphrynus melanostictus

Bufonid parotoid macrogland secretion contains several low molecular mass molecules, such as alkaloids and steroids. Nevertheless, its protein content is poorly understood. Herein, we applied a sample preparation methodology that allows the analysis of viscous matrices in order to examine its proteins. Methods: Duttaphrynus melanostictus parotoid macrogland secretion was submitted to ion-exchange batch sample preparation, yielding two fractions: salt-displaced fraction and acid-displaced fraction. Each sample was then fractionated by anionic-exchange chromatography, followed by in-solution proteomic analysis. Results: Forty-two proteins could be identified, such as acyl-CoA-binding protein, alcohol dehydrogenase, calmodulin, galectin and histone. Moreover, de novo analyses yielded 153 peptides, whereas BLAST analyses corroborated some of the proteomic-identified proteins. Furthermore, the de novo peptide analyses indicate the presence of proteins related to apoptosis, cellular structure, catalysis and transport processes. Conclusions: Proper sample preparation allowed the proteomic and de novo identification of different proteins in the D. melanostictus parotoid macrogland secretion. These results may increase the knowledge about the universe of molecules that compose amphibian skin secretion, as well as to understand their biological/physiological role in the granular gland.(AU)

Esteroides e análogos da prostaglandina F2α na prevenção de endometrites pós-parto em vacas girolandas / Steroids and prostaglandin F2α analogs in the prevention of endometritis postpartum in giroland cows

Objetivou-se avaliar a ocorrência de endometrites, a taxa de prenhez (TP) e o intervalo parto concepção (IPC) de vacas leiteiras tratadas 10 dias pós-parto com esteroides ou análogo da prostaglandina F2α. Dividiu-se 207 animais clinicamente sãos em 4 tratamentos: T1 (0,5 mg de Cipionato de Estradiol; T2 (70 mg de progesterona); T3 (0,5 mg de cloprostenol) e T4 2 mL de solução salina. 30 a 45 dias pós-parto realizou-se o exame ginecológico e nos animais saudáveis realizou-se a citologia endometrial. Por fim, estes animais foram submetidos a um protocolo de IATF. Analisou-se o IPC por ANOVA e as variáveis qualitativas pelo teste do Qui-Quadrado. O IPC não diferiu (P < 0,05) entre os tratamentos (104,7 ± 72,6; 93,5 ± 63,0; 98,2 ± 77,8; 112,8 ± 67,8, respectivamente). O Cloprostenol reduziu (P < 0,01) o número de animais não gestantes (10%, 5/50) em relação ao controle (26%, 13/50). Não houve diferença (P < 0,09) entre os tratamentos na incidência de endometrites. A TP não diferiu entre os animais diagnosticados com endometrite subclínica. Conclui-se que a utilização de esteroides ou análogos da prostaglandina F2α neste período não é eficiente na prevenção de endometrites e na melhoria da TP e IPC. O Cloprostenol foi o único a reduzir o número de animais não gestantes em comparação ao controle.(AU)

This study was designed to evaluate steroids or prostaglandin F2α analogue treatment performed 10 days after parturition postpartum over the following reproductive indexes: occurrence of endometritis, the pregnancy rate (PR) and parturition conception interval (PCI). Two-hundred seven (n = 207) cows without reproductive abnormalities were assigned in four treatments performed 10 days after parturition: T1 (0.5 mg estradiol cypionate, T2 (progesterone 70 mg), T3 (0.5 mg cloprostenol, prostaglandin F2α analogue) and T4 (2 ml saline). Thirty to fourty-five days after parturition all animals were gynecologically examined, and the endometrial cytology was performed only in cow without clinical endometritis. Finally, these animals were submitted to an IATF protocol. The PCI was analyzed by ANOVA and the qualitative variables were analyzed by the Chi-Square. The PCI did not differ (P < 0.2) between treatments (104.7 ± 72.6, 93.5 ± 63.0, 98.2 ± 77.8, 112.8 ± 67.8, respectively). Cloprostenol treatment reduced (P < 0.01) the number of non-pregnant animals (10%, 5/50) compared to the control (26%, 13/50). The steroids or Cloprostenol treatment is not effective to prevent endometritis or improve PR and PCI indexes, when injected at this period. Cloprostenol was the only one to reduce the number of non-pregnant animals in comparison to the control.(AU)

Esteroides e análogos da prostaglandina F2α na prevenção de endometrites pós-parto em vacas girolandas / Steroids and prostaglandin F2α analogs in the prevention of endometritis postpartum in giroland cows

Objetivou-se avaliar a ocorrência de endometrites, a taxa de prenhez (TP) e o intervalo parto concepção (IPC) de vacas leiteiras tratadas 10 dias pós-parto com esteroides ou análogo da prostaglandina F2α. Dividiu-se 207 animais clinicamente sãos em 4 tratamentos: T1 (0,5 mg de Cipionato de Estradiol; T2 (70 mg de progesterona); T3 (0,5 mg de cloprostenol) e T4 2 mL de solução salina. 30 a 45 dias pós-parto realizou-se o exame ginecológico e nos animais saudáveis realizou-se a citologia endometrial. Por fim, estes animais foram submetidos a um protocolo de IATF. Analisou-se o IPC por ANOVA e as variáveis qualitativas pelo teste do Qui-Quadrado. O IPC não diferiu (P < 0,05) entre os tratamentos (104,7 ± 72,6; 93,5 ± 63,0; 98,2 ± 77,8; 112,8 ± 67,8, respectivamente). O Cloprostenol reduziu (P < 0,01) o número de animais não gestantes (10%, 5/50) em relação ao controle (26%, 13/50). Não houve diferença (P < 0,09) entre os tratamentos na incidência de endometrites. A TP não diferiu entre os animais diagnosticados com endometrite subclínica. Conclui-se que a utilização de esteroides ou análogos da prostaglandina F2α neste período não é eficiente na prevenção de endometrites e na melhoria da TP e IPC. O Cloprostenol foi o único a reduzir o número de animais não gestantes em comparação ao controle.

This study was designed to evaluate steroids or prostaglandin F2α analogue treatment performed 10 days after parturition postpartum over the following reproductive indexes: occurrence of endometritis, the pregnancy rate (PR) and parturition conception interval (PCI). Two-hundred seven (n = 207) cows without reproductive abnormalities were assigned in four treatments performed 10 days after parturition: T1 (0.5 mg estradiol cypionate, T2 (progesterone 70 mg), T3 (0.5 mg cloprostenol, prostaglandin F2α analogue) and T4 (2 ml saline). Thirty to fourty-five days after parturition all animals were gynecologically examined, and the endometrial cytology was performed only in cow without clinical endometritis. Finally, these animals were submitted to an IATF protocol. The PCI was analyzed by ANOVA and the qualitative variables were analyzed by the Chi-Square. The PCI did not differ (P < 0.2) between treatments (104.7 ± 72.6, 93.5 ± 63.0, 98.2 ± 77.8, 112.8 ± 67.8, respectively). Cloprostenol treatment reduced (P < 0.01) the number of non-pregnant animals (10%, 5/50) compared to the control (26%, 13/50). The steroids or Cloprostenol treatment is not effective to prevent endometritis or improve PR and PCI indexes, when injected at this period. Cloprostenol was the only one to reduce the number of non-pregnant animals in comparison to the control.

Follicular environment and oocyte maturation: roles of local peptides and steroids

A large amount of data on the mechanisms regulating cumulus-oocyte maturation in mammals has been generated in the last 20 years. It has been made clear that oocyte-secreted factors play a central role in the control of cumulus differentiation and oocyte developmental competence. However, more recent data indicate that cumulus-derived factors are also involved. In this mini-review, we have compiled and discussed data produced in our laboratory about the involvement of oocyte and cumulus-derived peptides, including fibroblast growth factors, bone morphogenetic protein 15, Kit ligand and natriuretic peptide C, in the regulation of cumulus metabolism and oocyte nuclear maturation. In addition, we discuss the interaction of follicular steroids with natriuretic peptide C in the control of meiosis progression.

Follicular environment and oocyte maturation: roles of local peptides and steroids

A large amount of data on the mechanisms regulating cumulus-oocyte maturation in mammals has been generated in the last 20 years. It has been made clear that oocyte-secreted factors play a central role in the control of cumulus differentiation and oocyte developmental competence. However, more recent data indicate that cumulus-derived factors are also involved. In this mini-review, we have compiled and discussed data produced in our laboratory about the involvement of oocyte and cumulus-derived peptides, including fibroblast growth factors, bone morphogenetic protein 15, Kit ligand and natriuretic peptide C, in the regulation of cumulus metabolism and oocyte nuclear maturation. In addition, we discuss the interaction of follicular steroids with natriuretic peptide C in the control of meiosis progression.(AU)

Phytosterols isolated from endophytic fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Melanconiaceae) / Fotoesteróis isolados do fungo endofítico Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Melanconiaceae)

Endophytic fungi are fungi that colonize internal tissues of plants. There are few studies of compounds isolated from endophytic fungi of Amazon plants. Thus, the aim this study was the isolation and structural identification of sitosterol (1), stigmasterol (2), sitostenone (3), squalene (4), ergosterol (5) and ergosterol peroxide (6) from fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioidesisolated as endophytic from Virola michelli, a typical Amazon plant, used in folk medicine against skin infection. Compounds were isolated by chromatography column on silica and identified by 1H and 13C NMR and MS. The presence of phytosterols in fungi is rare and this is the first report of the isolation of the phytosterols sitosterol, stigmasterol and sitostenone from the genus Colletotrichum.

Fungos endofíticos são fungos que colonizam os tecidos internos das plantas. Existem poucos estudos de compostos isolados de fungos endofíticos de plantas da Amazônia. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi o isolamento e identificação estrutural de sitosterol (1), estigmasterol (2), sitostenona (3), esqualeno (4), ergosterol (5) e peroxido de ergosterol (6) do fungo Colletotrichum gloeosporioidesisolado como endofítico de Virola michelli, uma planta típica da Amazônia, usada na medicina popular no combate a infecções de pele. Os compostos foram isolados por cromatografia em coluna de sílica e identificados por RMN 1H e 13C e EM. A presença de fitoesteróis em fungos é rara e este é o primeiro relato do isolamento dos fitoesteróides sitosterol, estigmasterol e sitostenona do gêreno Colletotrichum.

Triterpenes of leaves from Piranhea trifoliata (Picrodendraceae) / Triterpenos das folhas de Piranhea trifoliata (Picrodendraceae)

The Amazon forest is rich in plant species diversity, among them,Piranhea trifoliata stands out, which is popularly known as piranheira, because their fruits are eaten by fish. Their barks are used as bath composition on uterus inflammation and as tea in malaria treatment. This study aimed to fractionate the dichloromethane and dichloromethane phase from methanolic extract of leaves of Piranhea trifoliata. The leaves were dried, grounded and extracted with dichloromethane, methanol and water. The methanol extract was partitioned with dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. The chromatographic fractionation yielded six pentacyclic triterpenoids: friedelan-3-one, 28-hydroxy-friedelan-3-one, 30-hydroxy-friedelan-3-one, lupeol, alfa- and beta-amyrin mixture, besides the mixture of the steroids: beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol. The substances structures were identified by 1H- and13C-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis and literature data comparison. This is the first report describing the chemical study of P. trifoliata leaves.

A floresta Amazônica é rica em diversas espécies vegetais, dentre elas, destaca-se Piranhea trifoliata, a qual é conhecida popularmente como piranheira, por seus frutos servirem de alimentos para peixes. Suas cascas são utilizadas como curativo para inflamação no útero em banhos de assento e para chás no tratamento de malária. O objetivo deste trabalho foi o fracionamento cromatográfico do extrato diclorometânico e da fase diclorometânica do extrato metanólico das folhas de Piranhea trifoliata. As folhas foram secas, moídas e extraídas com diclorometano, metanol e água. O extrato metanólico foi submetido à partição com diclorometano e acetato de etila. O fracionamento cromatográfico conduziu ao isolamento de seis triterpenoides pentacíclicos: friedelan-3-ona, 28-hidroxi-friedelan-3-ona, 30-hidroxi-friedelan-3-ona, lupeol, mistura de alfa- e beta-amirina, além da mistura dos esteroides beta-sitosterol e estigmasterol. As estruturas das substâncias foram identificadas pela análise dos espectros de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear (RMN) de 1H e de 13C e comparações com dados da literatura. Este é o primeiro relato descrevendo o estudo químico das folhas de P. trifoliata.

Phytosterols isolated from endophytic fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Melanconiaceae) / Fotoesteróis isolados do fungo endofítico Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Melanconiaceae)

Endophytic fungi are fungi that colonize internal tissues of plants. There are few studies of compounds isolated from endophytic fungi of Amazon plants. Thus, the aim this study was the isolation and structural identification of sitosterol (1), stigmasterol (2), sitostenone (3), squalene (4), ergosterol (5) and ergosterol peroxide (6) from fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioidesisolated as endophytic from Virola michelli, a typical Amazon plant, used in folk medicine against skin infection. Compounds were isolated by chromatography column on silica and identified by 1H and 13C NMR and MS. The presence of phytosterols in fungi is rare and this is the first report of the isolation of the phytosterols sitosterol, stigmasterol and sitostenone from the genus Colletotrichum.(AU)

Fungos endofíticos são fungos que colonizam os tecidos internos das plantas. Existem poucos estudos de compostos isolados de fungos endofíticos de plantas da Amazônia. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi o isolamento e identificação estrutural de sitosterol (1), estigmasterol (2), sitostenona (3), esqualeno (4), ergosterol (5) e peroxido de ergosterol (6) do fungo Colletotrichum gloeosporioidesisolado como endofítico de Virola michelli, uma planta típica da Amazônia, usada na medicina popular no combate a infecções de pele. Os compostos foram isolados por cromatografia em coluna de sílica e identificados por RMN 1H e 13C e EM. A presença de fitoesteróis em fungos é rara e este é o primeiro relato do isolamento dos fitoesteróides sitosterol, estigmasterol e sitostenona do gêreno Colletotrichum.(AU)

Triterpenes of leaves from Piranhea trifoliata (Picrodendraceae) / Triterpenos das folhas de Piranhea trifoliata (Picrodendraceae)

The Amazon forest is rich in plant species diversity, among them,Piranhea trifoliata stands out, which is popularly known as piranheira, because their fruits are eaten by fish. Their barks are used as bath composition on uterus inflammation and as tea in malaria treatment. This study aimed to fractionate the dichloromethane and dichloromethane phase from methanolic extract of leaves of Piranhea trifoliata. The leaves were dried, grounded and extracted with dichloromethane, methanol and water. The methanol extract was partitioned with dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. The chromatographic fractionation yielded six pentacyclic triterpenoids: friedelan-3-one, 28-hydroxy-friedelan-3-one, 30-hydroxy-friedelan-3-one, lupeol, alfa- and beta-amyrin mixture, besides the mixture of the steroids: beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol. The substances structures were identified by 1H- and13C-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis and literature data comparison. This is the first report describing the chemical study of P. trifoliata leaves.(AU)

A floresta Amazônica é rica em diversas espécies vegetais, dentre elas, destaca-se Piranhea trifoliata, a qual é conhecida popularmente como piranheira, por seus frutos servirem de alimentos para peixes. Suas cascas são utilizadas como curativo para inflamação no útero em banhos de assento e para chás no tratamento de malária. O objetivo deste trabalho foi o fracionamento cromatográfico do extrato diclorometânico e da fase diclorometânica do extrato metanólico das folhas de Piranhea trifoliata. As folhas foram secas, moídas e extraídas com diclorometano, metanol e água. O extrato metanólico foi submetido à partição com diclorometano e acetato de etila. O fracionamento cromatográfico conduziu ao isolamento de seis triterpenoides pentacíclicos: friedelan-3-ona, 28-hidroxi-friedelan-3-ona, 30-hidroxi-friedelan-3-ona, lupeol, mistura de alfa- e beta-amirina, além da mistura dos esteroides beta-sitosterol e estigmasterol. As estruturas das substâncias foram identificadas pela análise dos espectros de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear (RMN) de 1H e de 13C e comparações com dados da literatura. Este é o primeiro relato descrevendo o estudo químico das folhas de P. trifoliata.(AU)

Impactos do nível de ingestão de matéria seca na reprodução de fêmeas bovinas: ciclicidade, produção embrionária e metabolização de hormônios esteroides / Impacts of dry matter intake level on reproduction of bovine females: cyclicity, embryo production and metabolism of steroid hormones

Nutrition is one of the main factors affecting reproductive efficiency by influencing the growth, maturation and ovulatory capacity of the follicle and metabolic status of the animal, leading to scenarios that impair or corroborate the development and establishment of pregnancy. Different levels of dry matter intake (DMI, providing gain, loss or maintenance of body weight, for example) greatly affect the physiology of the estrous cycle and reproductive performance. The DMI level is also correlated with hepatic blood flow, resulting in a greater or lower metabolization of steroid hormones, which explains part of the reproductive problems that affects high-producing dairy cows. Insulin is one of the main factors that mediate the relationship between nutrition and reproduction. Thus, this review aims to clarify the key points of the relationship between nutrition and reproduction in relation to DMI and insulin action.

A nutrição é um dos principais fatores que afetam a eficiência reprodutiva por influenciar o crescimento, maturação e capacidade ovulatória do folículo bem como o perfil e estado metabólico do animal, gerando cenários que prejudicam ou corroboram o desenvolvimento e estabelecimento da prenhez. Diferentes níveis de ingestão de matéria seca (IMS; proporcionando ganho, perda ou manutenção de peso corporal, por exemplo) afetam consideravelmente a fisio-logia do ciclo estral e o desempenho reprodutivo. O nível de IMS também está correlacionado com o fluxo sanguíneo hepático, determinando maior ou menor metabolização de hormônios esteroides, fato que explica parte dos problemas reprodutivos apresentados por vacas leiteiras de alta produção. A insulina é um dos principais fatores que medeiam a relação da nutrição com a reprodução. Assim, essa revisão tem como objetivo esclarecer os pontos-chave da relação entre a nutrição e reprodução no que diz respeito aos níveis de ingestão de alimento e a ação da insulina.

Impactos do nível de ingestão de matéria seca na reprodução de fêmeas bovinas: ciclicidade, produção embrionária e metabolização de hormônios esteroides / Impacts of dry matter intake level on reproduction of bovine females: cyclicity, embryo production and metabolism of steroid hormones

Nutrition is one of the main factors affecting reproductive efficiency by influencing the growth, maturation and ovulatory capacity of the follicle and metabolic status of the animal, leading to scenarios that impair or corroborate the development and establishment of pregnancy. Different levels of dry matter intake (DMI, providing gain, loss or maintenance of body weight, for example) greatly affect the physiology of the estrous cycle and reproductive performance. The DMI level is also correlated with hepatic blood flow, resulting in a greater or lower metabolization of steroid hormones, which explains part of the reproductive problems that affects high-producing dairy cows. Insulin is one of the main factors that mediate the relationship between nutrition and reproduction. Thus, this review aims to clarify the key points of the relationship between nutrition and reproduction in relation to DMI and insulin action.(AU)

A nutrição é um dos principais fatores que afetam a eficiência reprodutiva por influenciar o crescimento, maturação e capacidade ovulatória do folículo bem como o perfil e estado metabólico do animal, gerando cenários que prejudicam ou corroboram o desenvolvimento e estabelecimento da prenhez. Diferentes níveis de ingestão de matéria seca (IMS; proporcionando ganho, perda ou manutenção de peso corporal, por exemplo) afetam consideravelmente a fisio-logia do ciclo estral e o desempenho reprodutivo. O nível de IMS também está correlacionado com o fluxo sanguíneo hepático, determinando maior ou menor metabolização de hormônios esteroides, fato que explica parte dos problemas reprodutivos apresentados por vacas leiteiras de alta produção. A insulina é um dos principais fatores que medeiam a relação da nutrição com a reprodução. Assim, essa revisão tem como objetivo esclarecer os pontos-chave da relação entre a nutrição e reprodução no que diz respeito aos níveis de ingestão de alimento e a ação da insulina.(AU)

Pheromones from male domestic mice influences the sexual function and gonadal steroids levels of female laboratory rats / Feromônios de influências masculinos nos ratos domésticos a função e os níveis de esteróides sexuais dos ratos de laboratório fêmeas / Feromonas de influencias masculinos en ratones domésticos la función y los niveles de esteroides sexuales en ratas hembras de laboratorio

It is well established that the behavior of different mammalians, including rodents, may undergo profound changes in the presence of individuals of other species. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify if the presence of pheromones from male mice could influence the reproductive parameters of female rats. Twenty Swiss (SW) male mice and 16 Long Evans (LE) female Rats were housed in separate rooms, with communication in the ceiling in its entire length. A continuous flow of air was planned to pass through the room of the mice before the room of the rats and finally be exchanged with the external environment. During 45 days, vaginal smears were collected. Relative weights of reproductive organs, estradiol, progesterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone levels were also measured. The total duration of the estrous cycle and relative organ weight remained unchanged. On the other hand, the proestrus and estrus phases, as well as the estradiol levels were increased, while the diestrus phase was significantly reduced. The results have shown that maintaining LE female rats in the presence of pheromones from male SW mice can significantly change the sexual function and gonadal steroid levels.(AU)

É bem conhecido que o comportamento de diferentes mamíferos, incluindo roedores podem sofrer alterações profundas na presença de indivíduos de outras espécies. Portanto, estudamos se a presença de feromônios de camundongos machos poderiam influenciar os parâmetros reprodutivos de ratas. Vinte suíços (SW) ratos do sexo masculino e 16 Long Evans (LE) ratas foram colocadas em locais distintos, com a comunicação no teto em toda a sua extensão. Um fluxo contínuo de ar foi planejado para passar através da sala de ratinhos antes da sala de ratos e, finalmente, ser trocado com o ambiente externo. Durante 45 dias, esfregaços vaginais foram recolhidas. Os pesos relativos dos órgãos reprodutores, o estradiol, progesterona e níveis de dehidroepiandrosterona também foram medidos. A duração total do ciclo estral e peso de órgãos em relação, manteve-se inalterada. Por outro lado, as fases de proestro e estro, bem como os níveis de estradiol foram aumentadas, enquanto que a fase diestro foi reduzida significativamente. Os resultados mostraram que a manutenção de ratas LE na presença de feromônios de camundongos SW do sexo masculino pode alterar significativamente a função sexual e os níveis de esteróides sexuais.(AU)

Es bien sabido que el comportamiento de diferentes mamíferos incluyendo roedores pueden sufrir cambios profundos en la presencia de individuos de otras especies. Por lo tanto, se estudió si la presencia de feromonas de ratones machos podrían influir en los parámetros reproductivos de las ratas hembra. Veinte suizos (SW) ratones machos y 16 Long Evans (LE) ratas hembras, fueron alojados en habitaciones separadas, con la comunicación en el techo en toda su extensión. Se planificó un flujo continuo de aire para pasar a través de la habitación de los ratones antes de la habitación de las ratas y, finalmente, ser intercambiado con el ambiente externo. Durante 45 días se recogieron frotes vaginales. También se midieron los pesos relativos de los órganos reproductivos, estradiol, progesterona, y los niveles de dehidroepiandrosterona. La duración total del ciclo estral y el peso relativo de órganos se mantuvo sin cambios. Por otro lado, las fases de proestro y de estro, así como los niveles de estradiol aumentaron, mientras que la fase de diestro redujo significativamente. Los resultados han demostrado que el mantenimiento de LE en ratas hembras, con presencia de feromonas de ratones SW macho puede cambiar significativamente la función sexual y los niveles de esteroides sexuales.(AU)

Importância e metodologias para mensuração dos esteroides sexuais em ruminantes / Importance and methodologies to measure sexual steroids progesterone and estradiol in ruminants

As dosagens dos esteroides sexuais, como progesterona e estradiol, pela sua importância, foram econtinuam sendo largamente utilizadas nas pesquisas em reprodução animal, nos estudos de fisiologia, patologiae biotecnologia reprodutiva. Vários métodos para quantificação desses esteroides foram desenvolvidos, porémcada metodologia analítica possui vantagens e limitações. O radioimunoensaio é o mais amplamente utilizado,pela sua eficiência e aplicabilidade em diversas espécies, mas tem como principal desvantagem o envolvimentode material radioativo. A preocupação nesse setor, aliada às exigências das legislações nacionais e internacionaisem questões ambientais, tem aumentado a necessidade do desenvolvimento de novas técnicas sem a utilização dematerial radioativo. Uma possibilidade que se apresenta é a tecnologia xMAP-Multiplex®. Esta tecnologiaapresenta vantagens sobre o radioimunoensaio, como ausência de radioatividade e detecção simultânea dehormônios, promovendo a diminuição do tempo gasto para dosagem e menor custo por amostra dosada. Porém,ainda sem estudos na endocrinologia reprodutiva de animais domésticos, torna-se necessária avaliá-la e validá-lapara cada espécie.(AU)

Quantifications of sexual steroids, such as progesterone and estradiol, because of their importance,have been widely used in many researches of animal´s reproduction to study reproductive physiology, pathologyand biotechnology. Several methods to quantify these steroids have been developed, but each analyticalmethodology has advantages and limitations. Radioimmunoassay is the most widely used method because of itsefficiency and applicability in several species, but it has as major disadvantage the use of radioactive material.These concerns added to the requirements of national and international´s legislations about environmentaltopics have increased the need to develop new techniques without the use of radioactive material. One newpossibility is the xMAP-Multiplex® technology. This technology offers advantages over radioimmunoassay, suchas absence of radioactivity and simultaneous detection of hormones, which decreases the time taken to quantifythem and lower price for each quantified sample. Although, there are no studies at reproductive endocrinologyat domestic animals and it is necessary to evaluate and validate it for each specie.(AU)