Assessment of the antiproliferative and antigenotoxic activity and phytochemical screening of aqueous extracts of Sambucus australis Cham. & Schltdl. (ADOXACEAE).

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antiproliferative and antigenotoxic activity of Sambucus australis Cham. & Schltdl. aqueous extracts on the cell cycle of Allium cepa L. as well as determine the phenolic compounds in such extracts. S. australis inflorescences and leaves of two accessions were used for aqueous extract preparation at concentrations: 0.003 g/ml and 0.012 g/ml. A. cepa bulbs were rooted in distilled water and, subsequently, placed in treatments for 24 hours. Rootlets were collected and fixed in modified Carnoy's solution for 24 hours and kept. The squash technique was performed for slide preparation. Root tips were smashed and stained with 2% acetic orcein, and a total of 4000 cells per treatment were analyzed. The phenolic compounds were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography and data was analyzed using the Scott-Knott test. The results show that S. australis aqueous extracts have antiproliferative potential. Besides, the extracts prepared from S. australis leaves of both accessions at a concentration of 0.012 g/ml have shown antigenotoxic activity. The phytochemical analysis allowed us to determine the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids, of which kaempferol and chrologenic acid were the most predominant compounds in the extracts from the inflorescences and leaves, respectively.

Cytogenotoxicity of rice crop water after application of the tricyclazole fungicide.

Tricyclazole is currently one of the fungicides recommended for the treatment of diseases in irrigated rice. However, there is relatively little information on its cytotoxic and genotoxic potential. The objective of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of rice crop water after apllication of the tricyclazole fungicide through the Allium cepa L. test. The rice crop water samplings were collected before and 1, 15 and 30 days after application of the fungicide in rice plant shoots. The Allium cepa roots were placed in contact with the rice crop water to check for possible chromosomal abnormalities and mitotic index of the bioindicators meristematic cells. The data obtained by the Allium cepa test indicates that the application of the tricyclazole fungicide leads to an increase in the genotoxic activity in the rice crop water, through the appearance of chromosomal abnormalities, without, however, causing significant effects on the mitotic index. The major chromosomal alterations observed were anaphasic and telophasic bridges and laggard chromosomes.

Association of Borage Oil and Betamethasone Dipropionate in Lipid-Core Nanocapsules: Characterization, Photostability and In Vitro Irritation Test.

The association of vegetable products to nanostructured systems has attracted the attention of researchers due to several advantages, such as drug photoprotection, as well as the improvement of the pharmacological and therapeutic activities because of synergistic action, which can provide their topical application. In this work, lipid-core nanocapsules containing borage oil as oil core and betamethasone dipropionate were developed, and nanocapsules without the drug were prepared for comparison. The suspensions were characterized in relation to mean particle size, zeta potential, pH, drug content, and encapsulation efficiency. A photodegradation study was carried out and the in vitro release profile as well as the irritation potential of the drug after nanoencapsulation were also evaluated. In addition, the antiproliferative activity of the free borage oil as well as loaded in nanocapsules was studied. Lipid-core nanocapsules showed nanometric mean size (185-210 nm); polydispersity index below 0.10; negative zeta potential and pH slightly acid (6.0-6.2). Moreover, the drug content was close to theoretical concentration (0.50 +/- 0.03 mg/ml of betamethasone), and the encapsulation efficiency was approximately 100%. The study of the antiproliferative activity of borage oil showed ability to reduce cell growth of Allium cepa. The nanoencapsulation of betamethasone dipropionate provided greater protection against UVC light and decreased the irritation potential of the drug. The release profile of betamethasone dipropionate from nanocapsules followed monoexponential model.

Influence of the type of vegetable oil on the drug release profile from lipid-core nanocapsules and in vivo genotoxicity study.

The use of rice bran (RB), soybean (SB) or sunflower seed (SF) oils to prepare lipid-core nanocapsules (LNCs) as controlled drug delivery systems was investigated. LNCs were prepared by interfacial deposition using the preformed polymer method. All formulations showed negative zeta potential and adequate nanotechnological characteristics (particle size 220-230 nm, polydispersity index < 0.20). The environmental safety was evaluated through an in vivo protocol (Allium cepa test) and LNCs containing RB, SB or SF oils did not present genotoxic potential. Clobetasol propionate (CP) was selected as a model drug to evaluate the influence of the type of vegetable oil on the control of the drug release from LNCs. Biphasic drug release profiles were observed for all formulations. After 168 h, the concentration of drug released from the formulation containing SF oil was lower (0.36 mg/mL) than from formulations containing SB (0.40 mg/mL) or RB oil (0.45 mg/mL). Good correlations between the consistency indices for the LNC cores and the burst and sustained drug release rate constants were obtained. Therefore, the type of the vegetal oil was shown as an important factor governing the control of drug release from LNCs.

Post-treatment with plant extracts used in Brazilian folk medicine caused a partial reversal of the antiproliferative effect of glyphosate in the Allium cepa test.

Species of the genus Psychotria are used for multiple purposes in Brazilian folk medicine, either as water infusions, baths or poultices. This study was aimed to evaluate the genotoxic and antiproliferative effects of infusions of Psychotria brachypoda and P. birotula on the Allium cepa test. Exposure to distilled water was used as a negative control, while exposure to glyphosate was used as a positive control. The interaction of extracts (as a post-treatment) with the effects of glyphosate was also studied. Results showed that glyphosate and the extracts of both P. brachypoda and P. birotula reduced the mitotic index as compared with the negative control (distilled water). Surprisingly, however, both extracts from P. brachypoda and P. birotula caused a partial reversal of the antiproliferative effect of glyphosate when used as a post-treatment. Glyphosate also induced the highest number of cells with chromosomal alterations, which was followed by that of P. birotula extracts. However, the extracts from P. brachypoda did not show any significant genotoxic effect. Post-treatment of glyphosate-treated samples with distilled water allowed a partial recovery of the genotoxic effect of glyphosate, and some of the Psychotria extracts also did so. Notably, post-treatment of glyphosate-treated samples with P. brachypoda extracts induced a statistically significant apoptotic effect. It is concluded that P. brachypoda extracts show antiproliferative effects and are not genotoxic, while extracts of P. birotula show a less potent antiproliferative effect and may induce chromosomal abnormalities. The finding of a partial reversion of the effects of glyphosate by a post-treatment with extracts from both plants should be followed up.

Genotoxic effects of Campomanesia xanthocarpa extracts on Allium cepa vegetal system.

UNLABELLED: CONTEXT. Campomanesia xanthocarpa Berg. (Myrtaceae), popularly known in Brazil as guabiroba, is a plant used as antidiarrheic, anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic agents, and in stomach and hepatic disorders. OBJECTIVE: The antiproliferative and genotoxic effects of aqueous extracts and essential oil of C. xanthocarpa were evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the aqueous extracts (6 and 30 mg/mL) and essential oil (0.25%, v/v) obtained from leaves of C. xanthocarpa were evaluated using the Allium cepa L. (Amaryllidaceae) assay. Mitotic index was calculated as the percentage of dividing cells of total cells observed; chromosome abnormalities were observed and counted during cell division. Additionally, the composition of the essential oil and the quantification of the main compounds of the extracts were determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector, respectively. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Aqueous extracts (6 and 30 mg/mL) led to a reduction of 67.7% and 34.1% of the mitotic index, respectively, whereas the treatment with essential oil caused a 48.2% reduction in the mitotic index, when compared with negative control. Chromosomal mutations were observed and included anaphase bridges, delay chromosome, break chromosome, as well as metaphase with disorganized chromosomal and binuclear cells. The main compounds of the essential oil were ß-caryophyllene (8.87%), viridiflorol (6.40%), spathulenol (5.16%), δ-cadinene (4.92%), linalool (4.46%) and α-cadinol (4.25%). Gallic acid (3.19%), chlorogenic acid (1.04%), quercetin (2.97%) and rutin (4.82%) were identified in an aqueous extract (30 mg/mL). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated that genotoxic and antiproliferative activities are present in C. xanthocarpa infusions using the in vivo onion root-tip cell test.

Pollen viability of Polygala paniculata L. (Polygalaceae) using different staining methods.

Polygala paniculata L. is a medicinal plant that grows in the Brazilian Atlantic coast, known as 'barba-de-São-João', 'barba-de-bode', 'vassourinha branca', and 'mimosa'. In this study, pollen viability was estimated by three different staining methods: 2% acetic orcein, 2% acetic carmine, and Alexander's stain. The young inflorescences of twenty accessions were collected and fixed in a solution of ethanol: acetic acid (3:1) for 24 hours, then stored in ethanol 70% under refrigeration. Six slides per plant, two for each stain, were prepared by squashing, and 300 pollen grains per slide were analyzed. Pollen viability was high (> 70%) for most accessions of P. paniculata using the Alexander's stain, which proved the most adequate method to estimate pollen viability.

Genotoxicity, Cytotoxicity and Phenolic Compounds from Aqueous Extracts of Phyllanthus tenellus Roxb. Cultivated Under Different Light Conditions.

<b>Background and Objective:</b> <i>Phyllanthus tenellus</i> Roxb. is a medicinal species widely used in Brazil for diseases of the urinary tract, kidney stones, infections and as a diuretic. The therapeutic property of this species is due to the production of phenolic compounds by secondary metabolism. However, cultivation conditions can alter the production of phenolic compounds and compromise the medicinal use of the species. The aim of this research was the evaluation of the genotoxic and cytotoxic activity of aqueous extracts of the species <i>Phyllanthus tenellus</i> Roxb. grown with and without shading, on the <i>Allium cepa</i> cell cycle and also, determine the phenolic compounds present in the aqueous extracts in each of the cultivation conditions. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> For the <i>Allium cepa</i> test three concentrations of 5, 10 and 15 g L¹ of the aerial part of the plant were used for the preparation of aqueous extracts, referring to the two forms of cultivation, with and without shading. <b>Results:</b> The aqueous extracts of <i>Phyllanthus tenellus</i> Roxb. have cytotoxic activity, except for the 5 g L¹ concentration of the cultivation with shading, which is the only concentration that has a genotoxic effect. <b>Conclusion:</b> The incidence of light stimulates the increase in the concentration of phenolic compounds (total polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins) in the species when cultivated in full sun.

Alterations in the mitotic index of Allium cepa induced by infusions of Pluchea sagittalis submitted to three different cultivation systems.

We evaluated the antiproliferative effect of infusions from Pluchea sagittalis using the Allium cepa test. Infusions in three concentrations (2.5, 5, and 25 g dm-3) of leaves cultivated in three environments (in vitro, acclimatized growth chamber, and field) were used. Six onion bulbs were used for each of the eight treatments, and the mitotic index was obtained from 6000 cells per treatment. In conclusion, leaf infusions of P. sagittalis cultivated in the field have a high antiproliferative activity, as well as the cultivation system influences the antiproliferative potential.

Antiproliferative and genotoxic effects of Mikania glomerata (Asteraceae).

Mikania glomerata is a plant used in Brazilian traditional medicine, known as 'guaco'. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties and the aqueous extracts of its leaves are indicated for the treatment of diseases of the respiratory tract. This study aimed at evaluating the antiproliferative and genotoxic effect of Mikania glomerata leaf infusions on the cell cycle of onion. The material used was collected in the native environment from Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Aqueous extracts through infusions were prepared in two concentrations: 4g/L (usual concentration) and 16g/L (4x more concentrated) of each of the populations. Two groups of four onion bulbs for each plant population were used plus a control group. The rootlets were fixed in ethanol-acetic acid (3:1), conserved in ethanol 70% and slides were prepared using the squashing technique colored with orcein 2%. The cells were observed and analyzed during cell cycle. Per group of bulbs, 2000 cells were analyzed, and the mean values of the cell number of each of the phases of the cell cycle were calculated, determining the mitotic index (MI). Statistic analyses of the data were carried out by the x2 ( p= 0.05) test. We conclude that M. glomerata presents both antiproliferative and genotoxic activity.

Antiproliferative potential and phenolic compounds of infusions and essential oil of chamomile cultivated with homeopathy.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Chamomilla recutita (Asteraceae) is used worldwide as a soothing, anti-inflammatory and aromatherapy. In Brazil, it is one of the most cultivated medicinal species. However, the cultivation form may alter the production of compounds in the secondary metabolism and compromise the therapeutic purpose of this species. AIM OF THE STUDY: Evaluation of antiproliferative and genotoxic effects of infusions and essential oil of chamomile, cultivated with homeopathy, on the cell cycle of Allium cepa, as well as the determination of the phenolic compounds present in the infusions of the chamomile inflorescences. MATERIAL AND METHODS: For the Allium cepa test, two concentrations of 10 and 40 g L-1 of inflorescences of chamomile were used for the preparation of the infusions and essential oil diluted to 0.10%, referring to the six treatments obtained in field cultivation, in which were carried out the applications of homeopathy from the emergence to the harvest of the plants. Distilled water and ethanol were used as negative control and glyphosate 2% as a positive control. The determination of phenolic compounds present in the infusions was carried by liquid chromatography in a UHPLC apparatus. RESULTS: Chamomile infusions at concentrations of 10 and 40 g L-1 of inflorescence reduced mitotic index and emphasized antiproliferative activity on the cell cycle of Allium cepa. However, the treatments related to essential oil diluted to 0.10% showed a response variation dependent on the dynamization used, as well as for apigenin concentration. CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, cultivation with homeopathy does not induce a genotoxic effect in the use of infusions and essential oil of chamomile and it emphasize antiproliferative activity on the cell cycle of Allium cepa, favoring the sustainable cultivation and the safe use of this medicinal species when cultivated with homeopathy.

Detailing and reflections on occupational therapy in the process of school inclusion / Detalhamento e reflexões sobre a terapia ocupacional no processo de inclusão escolar

Abstract Introduction: Studies show the effectiveness of inclusive actions in educational processes, as well as the need for specialized training of occupational therapists, enabling them for collaborative approaches and actions. Objective: To identify actions developed by occupational therapists in the process of school inclusion of children and teenagers with special educational needs, and think over the context of inclusive education from the presented perspectives. Method: A survey with 18 occupational therapists for data collection. A questionnaire related to school inclusion and professional practice was applied through an on-line platform and a social network. Data gathered were forwarded to qualitative analysis, with descriptive, exploratory analysis for objective questions, and content analysis for the descriptives. Results: The main participants' involvement in school inclusion occurred from their office practice, but 50% of them also assist in regular school. The main method of contribution occurred through assessment, planning and developing inclusion and guidance activities in schools. The participation of family and other professionals in a collaborative approach, the school and teachers lack of preparation to complete the inclusion processes were noteworthy. Conclusion: Study results reassure the importance of occupational therapist's contribution to cope with the challenges and effectiveness of school inclusion. Emphasis is given to the need for greater integration of those professionals in regular school and the importance of expanding the considerations and questions regarding the construction of a more democratic educational system.

Resumo Introdução: Estudos apontam para a efetividade de ações inclusivas relacionadas aos processos escolares, assim como a necessidade de formação especializada para terapeutas ocupacionais, capacitando-os para abordagens e ações colaborativas. Objetivos: Identificar ações desenvolvidas por terapeutas ocupacionais do Estado do Paraná no processo de inclusão escolar de crianças e adolescentes com necessidades educacionais especiais, e refletir sobre o contexto da educação inclusiva, a partir de perspectivas apresentadas. Método: Realizou-se levantamento de dados (survey), com a participação de 18 terapeutas ocupacionais. Aplicou-se questionário relacionado a inclusão escolar e atuação do profissional, com divulgação através de plataforma online e rede social. Submeteram-se os dados coletados à análise qualitativa, com análises exploratórias descritivas nas questões objetivas e de conteúdo, nas descritivas. Resultados: O principal envolvimento dos participantes com a inclusão escolar ocorre a partir de atendimento em ambiente clínico, porém 50% atendem, também, na escola regular. As principais formas de contribuição ocorrem através de avaliação, planejamento e desenvolvimento de atividades relacionadas a processos de inclusão, e de orientações às escolas. Destacam-se a participação da família e de outros profissionais envolvidos, em uma perspectiva colaborativa, e a falta de preparo da escola e dos professores para a efetivação dos processos de inclusão. Conclusão: Os resultados do estudo reafirmam a relevância da contribuição do terapeuta ocupacional para o enfrentamento dos desafios e a concretização da inclusão escolar. Enfatizam-se a necessidade de maior inserção destes profissionais na escola comum do ensino regular e a importância de ampliar as reflexões e problematizações em relação à construção de um sistema educacional mais democrático.

Biomonitoring genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of Microcystis aeruginosa (Chroococcales, cyanobacteria) using the Allium cepa test.

Water pollution caused by toxic cyanobacteria is a problem worldwide, increasing with eutrophication. Due to its biological significance, genotoxicity should be a focus for biomonitoring pollution owing to the increasing complexity of the toxicological environment in which organisms are exposed. Cyanobacteria produce a large number of bioactive compounds, most of which lack toxicological data. Microcystins comprise a class of potent cyclic heptapeptide toxins produced mainly by Microcystis aeruginosa. Other natural products can also be synthesized by cyanobacteria, such as the protease inhibitor, aeruginosin. The hepatotoxicity of microcystins has been well documented, but information on the genotoxic effects of aeruginosins is relatively scarce. In this study, the genotoxicity and ecotoxicity of methanolic extracts from two strains of M. aeruginosa NPLJ-4, containing high levels of microcystin, and M. aeruginosa NPCD-1, with high levels of aeruginosin, were evaluated. Four endpoints, using plant assays in Allium cepa were applied: rootlet growth inhibition, chromosomal aberrations, mitotic divisions, and micronucleus assays. The microcystin content of M. aeruginosa NPLJ-4 was confirmed through ELISA, while M. aeruginosa NPCD-1 did not produce microcystins. The extracts of M. aeruginosa NPLJ-4 were diluted at 0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 ppb of microcystins; the same procedure was used to dilute M. aeruginosa NPCD-1 used as a parameter for comparison, and water was used as the control. The results demonstrated that both strains inhibited root growth and induced rootlet abnormalities. The strain rich in aeruginosin was more genotoxic, altering the cell cycle, while microcystins were more mitogenic. These findings indicate the need for future research on non-microcystin producing cyanobacterial strains. Understanding the genotoxicity of M. aeruginosa extracts can help determine a possible link between contamination by aquatic cyanobacteria and high risk of primary liver cancer found in some areas as well as establish water level limits for compounds not yet studied.

Assessment of the antiproliferative and antigenotoxic activity and phytochemical screening of aqueous extracts of Sambucus australis Cham. & Schltdl. (ADOXACEAE)

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antiproliferative and antigenotoxic activity of Sambucus australis Cham. & Schltdl. aqueous extracts on the cell cycle of Allium cepa L. as well as determine the phenolic compounds in such extracts. S. australis inflorescences and leaves of two accessions were used for aqueous extract preparation at concentrations: 0.003 g/ml and 0.012 g/ml. A. cepa bulbs were rooted in distilled water and, subsequently, placed in treatments for 24 hours. Rootlets were collected and fixed in modified Carnoy's solution for 24 hours and kept. The squash technique was performed for slide preparation. Root tips were smashed and stained with 2% acetic orcein, and a total of 4000 cells per treatment were analyzed. The phenolic compounds were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography and data was analyzed using the Scott-Knott test. The results show that S. australis aqueous extracts have antiproliferative potential. Besides, the extracts prepared from S. australis leaves of both accessions at a concentration of 0.012 g/ml have shown antigenotoxic activity. The phytochemical analysis allowed us to determine the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids, of which kaempferol and chrologenic acid were the most predominant compounds in the extracts from the inflorescences and leaves, respectively.

Cytogenotoxicity of rice crop water after application of the tricyclazole fungicide

ABSTRACT Tricyclazole is currently one of the fungicides recommended for the treatment of diseases in irrigated rice. However, there is relatively little information on its cytotoxic and genotoxic potential. The objective of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of rice crop water after apllication of the tricyclazole fungicide through the Allium cepa L. test. The rice crop water samplings were collected before and 1, 15 and 30 days after application of the fungicide in rice plant shoots. The Allium cepa roots were placed in contact with the rice crop water to check for possible chromosomal abnormalities and mitotic index of the bioindicators meristematic cells. The data obtained by the Allium cepa test indicates that the application of the tricyclazole fungicide leads to an increase in the genotoxic activity in the rice crop water, through the appearance of chromosomal abnormalities, without, however, causing significant effects on the mitotic index. The major chromosomal alterations observed were anaphasic and telophasic bridges and laggard chromosomes.

Percepção de Pais e Terapeutas Ocupacionais sobre o Brincar da Criança com Paralisia Cerebral / Parents' and Occupational Therapists' Perceptions About the Playing of Children With Cerebral Palsy

RESUMO: crianças com paralisia cerebral (PC) apresentam déficit motor e podem ter poucas vivências sensório-motoras, o que interfere em sua principal atividade: o brincar. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a percepção de pais e de terapeutas ocupacionais sobre o comportamento lúdico de crianças com PC. O estudo foi desenvolvido com 25 crianças com PC utilizando os instrumentos Entrevista Inicial com os Pais e a Avaliação do Comportamento Lúdico das crianças destinados a terapeutas ocupacionais. Os resultados apontaram um índice de concordância que variou de 8% a 93% quanto ao interesse geral da criança pelas outras pessoas; 88% a 100% na categoria interesse geral da criança pelo ambiente sensorial, de 84 a 96% na categoria interesses e capacidades lúdicas; e, de 68% a 100% na categoria características da atitude lúdica. Os instrumentos utilizados foram capazes de identificar o comportamento lúdico de crianças com PC e podem auxiliar na delimitação de objetivos e plano terapêutico com abordagem centrada no cliente. Com este estudo verificou-se que as crianças com PC, independentemente de sua gravidade motora, demonstram atitude, ação e interesse pelo brincar, condizendo com a proposta da abordagem do Modelo Lúdico.

ABSTRACT: Children with cerebral palsy (CP) present motor disability and may have fewer sensorimotor experiences, which may interfere in their main activity: playing. The purpose of this study was to identify the perceptions of parents and occupational therapists on the ludic behavior of children with CP. The study was carried out with 25 children with CP using Initial Interview with Parents and Assessment of Ludic Behavior aimed at occupational therapists. Results indicated an agreement rate ranging from 8% to 93%; regarding the child's General Interest to Other People; from 88% to 100% for Child's General Interest for the Sensorial Environment; from 84% to 96% in the category Ludic Interests and Skills; and from 68% to 100% in the category Characteristics of the Ludic Attitude. The instruments used were capable of identifying the children's ludic behavior and may help define the objectives and treatment plan with a patient-centered approach. This study showed that children with CP, regardless of their motor severity, demonstrate attitude, action and interest in playing, consistently to the Ludic Model.

Chromatographic analysis and antiproliferative potential of aqueous extracts of Punica granatum fruit peels using the Allium cepa test

Punica granatum L., locally known as romanzeira, is native to Asia but found throughout Brazil. P. granatum is used for treating inflammatory, infectious and respiratory diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the chromatography and genotoxicity of an aqueous extract of P. granatum (pomegranate) fruit peel using the Allium cepa L. test. The experiment set-up entailed 7 treatments: T1-distilled water, T2-tea 5 g.L-1, T3-tea 10 g.L-1, T4-glyphosate at 9.6%, T5-glyphosate with subsequent recovery in distilled water, T6-glyphosate with subsequent recovery in tea 5 g.L-1 and T7-glyphosate with subsequent recovery in tea 10 g.L-1. The rootlets were collected and fixed in ethanol:acetic acid (3:1) for 24 hours, then stored in 70% ethanol under refrigeration. Analysis was performed using high performance liquid chromatography for the quantification of the extracted phenolic compounds. Gallic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, and rutin were abundant in the extracts of P. granatum. The extracts were found to exhibit antiproliferative potential but not antimutagenic or genotoxic activity.

Punica granatum L., conhecida como romanzeira, é originária da Ásia e encontra-se distribuída por todo Brasil. É usada para o tratamento de doenças inflamatórias, infecciosas e respiratórias. Em decorrência da grande utilização de recursos fitoterápicos, é necessário esclarecer à população sobre a grande quantidade de substâncias existentes nas plantas e sobre os benefícios e prejuízos de tais substâncias à saúde. O presente trabalho objetivou realizar a análise cromatográfica e o estudo da genotoxicidade dos extratos aquosos das cascas dos frutos de P. granatum através do teste de Allium cepa L. Para a montagem do experimento, foram utilizados 7 tratamentos: T1-água destilada, T2-chá 5 g.L-1, T3-chá 10 g.L-1, T4-glifosato a 9,6%, T5-glifosato para recuperação em água destilada, T6-glifosato para recuperação em chá 5 g.L-1 e T7-glifosato para recuperação em chá 10 g.L-1. As radículas foram coletadas e fixadas em etanol:ácido acético (3:1) por 24 horas, e armazenadas em álcool 70%, sob refrigeração. Realizou-se análise por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência para quantificação dos compostos fenólicos. Nos extratos de P. granatum foram observados em maior quantidade: ácido gálico, catequina, ácido cafeico e rutina. Além disso, os extratos demonstraram potencial antiproliferativo, sem apresentar atividade antimutagênica e genotóxica.

Genotoxic and chromatographic analyses of aqueous extracts of Peltodon longipes Kunth ex Benth. (hortelã-do-campo)

Peltodon longipes is used as a stimulant and emmenagogue. The objective of this study was to perform genotoxic and chromatographic analyses of the extracts of two samples of P. longipes, collected from the cities of Santa Maria and Tupanciretã, RS, Brazil. The Allium cepa assay was used to analyze genotoxicity while high-performance liquid chromatography was employed to determine phenolic compounds. The genotoxicity experiment consisted of nine groups each comprising four A. cepa bulbs. Bulb roots were developed in distilled water and then transferred for the treatments, for 24 hours, and the negative control remained in water. The treatments were: aqueous extracts at concentrations of 5 and 15 g L-1 for each sample, plus four groups treated with 1% glyphosate, one of which was used as a positive control and the other three for testing DNA damage recovery using water and the extracts of P. longipes from Santa Maria. All extracts of P. longipes exhibited anti-proliferative potential, although the effect was significantly greater for the extracts from the Tupanciretã sample. This sample also contained the highest amount of rosmarinic acid and kaempferol, which may confer the effects found in these extracts. Only extracts from the Santa Maria sample exhibited genotoxic potential.

Peltodon longipes é utilizada como estimulante e emenagoga. Objetivou-se realizar análises genotóxica e cromatográfica dos extratos de duas amostras de P. longipes, coletadas nos municípios de Santa Maria e Tupanciretã, RS, Brasil. O teste de Allium cepa foi utilizado para análise da genotoxicidade e a cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência, para determinação dos compostos fenólicos. O experimento de genotoxicidade constou de nove grupos de quatro bulbos de A. cepa. Os bulbos foram enraizados em água destilada e após transferidos para os tratamentos, por 24 horas, permanecendo o controle negativo em água. Os tratamentos foram: extratos aquosos nas concentrações de 5 e 15 g L-1 de cada amostra, além de quatro grupos tratados com glifosato 1%, um deles usado como controle positivo e outros três para testar a recuperação de danos ao DNA, utilizando água e os extratos de P. longipes da amostra de Santa Maria. Todos os extratos de P. longipes demonstraram potencial antiproliferativo, porém o efeito foi significativamente maior para os extratos da amostra de Tupanciretã. Essa amostra também apresentou maior quantidade de ácido rosmarínico e canferol, o que pode estar relacionado com os efeitos encontrados nesses extratos. Somente extratos da amostra de Santa Maria demonstraram potencial genotóxico.

Efeito de metabólitos produzidos por Trichoderma spp. sobre o índice mitótico em células das pontas de raízes de Allium cepa / Effect of metabolites produced by Trichoderma spp. on mitotic index in cells of Allium cepa root tips

Microrganismos do solo produzem metabólitos importantes para a produção de compostos biologicamente ativos. Dentre estes microrganismos, as espécies de trichoderma (Trichoderma spp.) possuem a capacidade de produzir metabólitos. A promoção do desenvolvimento de plantas por trichoderma pode estar relacionada, entre outros fatores, ao estimulo à multiplicação celular, através da produção de hormônios, entre outros. O método de avaliação do índice mitótico em raízes de Allium cepa é validado pelo Programa Internacional de Segurança Química (IPCS, OMS) e o Programa Ambiental das Nações Unidas (UNEP) como um eficiente teste para análise e monitoramento in situ. O objetivo do estudo foi selecionar cepas e produtos biológicos comerciais de trichoderma, utilizados no controle biológico de fitopatógenos que promovam o aumento do índice mitótico em células de pontas de raízes pelo sistema teste de A. cepa. Foram utilizadas cepas de Trichoderma harzianum (2B2, 2B22, 2B12); Trichoderma viride (TSM1, TSM2, C1) e os produtos biológicos comerciais de trichoderma, Agrotrich® e Trichodermil®. Os bulbos de Allium cepa foram arranjados em dez tratamentos (quatro repetições por tratamento), oito com metabólitos de cepas de Trichoderma spp. e dois controles na ausência de metabólitos. A contagem das células ocorreu na região meristemática, onde foram contadas 500 células por bulbo em cada uma das lâminas. Foram observadas as células em interfase, prófase, metáfase, anáfase e telófase, com auxílio de microscópio ótico com a objetiva de 40X. Foram contadas as células de cada uma das fases do ciclo celular estudadas, após calculou-se os índices mitóticos. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada pelo teste c 2 (Qui-quadrado), com probabilidade de 5%, pelo programa estatístico BioEstat 4.0. Os tratamentos T1, T3 e T4 (metabólitos das cepas 2B2, 2B12 e C1 de trichoderma, respectivamente) apresentaram os maiores números de células para as fases prófase, metáfase, anáfase e telófase e alcançaram os maiores IM (c 2= 5.45 a= 0.05), (c 2= 5.0 a= 0.05) e (c 2= 3.92 a= 0.05), respectivamente. O tratamento controle T10 (meio líquido BD), apresentou o maior número de células em interfase, e o menor nas fases da divisão celular. O teste com raízes de Allium cepa possibilita selecionar cepas de trichoderma que induzem o aumento do índice mitótico em pontas de raízes pela ação de metabólitos e apresenta variabilidade entre as cepas estudadas.

Soil microorganisms produce metabolites important for the production of biologically active compounds. In relation to these organisms, species of trichoderma (Trichoderma spp.) have the ability to produce metabolites. Promoting the development of plants by trichoderma may be related, among other factors, to stimulate cell proliferation through the production of hormones, among others. The method of evaluation of mitotic index in Allium cepa roots is validated by the International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS, WHO) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as an effective test for in situ analysis and monitoring. The aim of the study was to select strains and commercial biological products trichoderma used in biological control of plant pathogens that promote increased mitotic index in cells of the root tips of A. cepa test system. Strains of Trichoderma harzianum (2B2, 2B22, 2B12) and Trichoderma viride (TSM1, TSM2, C1) and the biological products commercials Agrotrich® and Trichodermil® of trichoderma were used. The bulbs of Allium cepa were arranged in ten treatment (four replicates per treatment), eight with metabolite of Trichoderma spp. and two controls in the absence of metabolites. Cell counts occurred on the meristematic region where 500 cells were counted for each bulb on the blades. Cells were observed in interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase and telophase, with the aid of an optical microscope with a 40X objective. The cells were counted in each phase of the cell cycle analyzed and after it was calculated mitotic rates. Statistical analysis of data was performed by c 2 test (chi-square), with a probability of 5%, the statistical program BioEstat 4.0. Treatments T1, T3 and T4 (metabolites of isolates 2B2, 2B12 and C1 of trichoderma, respectively) showed higher cell numbers for the phases prophase, metaphase, anaphase and telophase and reached the highest IM (c 2= 5.45 a= 0.05), (c 2= 5.0 a= 0.05) e (c 2= 3.92 a= 0.05, respectively. The T10 control (liquid medium BD), had the highest number of interphase cells, and the lower phases of cell division. The test with Allium cepa roots enables selecting trichoderma isolates that induce increased mitotic index in root tips by the action of metabolites and shows variability among the isolates studied.

Chromatographic analysis, antiproliferative effect and genotoxicity of aqueous extracts of Citrus sinensis (L) osbeck on the Allium cepa L test system / Análise cromatográfica, efeito antiproliferativo e genotoxicidade de extratos aquosos de Citrus sinensis (L) osbeck sobre o sistema teste de Allium cepa L

The species Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck (orange) is used in folk medicine as an infusion (tea) for the treatment of nerve irritation, insomnia, spasms, whooping cough, flue, and gastrointestinal problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiproliferative and genotoxic potential of aqueous extracts of C. sinensis testing by Allium cepa L., as well as to determine the components in the complex mixture (tea). Leaves from two populations of this species were used in the preparation of infusions at two concentrations: 6g.L-1 and 24g.L-1, besides using distilled water as a negative control and 9.6% glyphosate as a positive control. Six groups of four bulbs of A. cepa were used, each group corresponding to one of the treatments. The bulbs were rooted in distilled water and then transferred to the respective treatments where they remained for 24 hours (the bulbs of the negative control remained in distilled water). The rootlets were collected, fixated in ethanol-acetic acid (3:1) for 24 hours and stored in 70% alcohol. 4,000 cells were analyzed per group of bulbs, and the calculated mitotic indices were submitted to statistical analysis using the c 2 test. The aqueous extracts of C. sinensis have as main components flavonoids and phenolic acids. The values of the mitotic index decreased with increasing concentration of the extracts relative to the control in water. The results indicated that the orange aqueous extracts in the studied concentrations in both populations have antiproliferative and genotoxic effects on the cell cycle of A. cepa.

A espécie Citrus sinensis (laranjeira) (L.) Osbeck é usada na medicina popular como infusão (chá) para o tratamento de irritações nervosas, insônia, espasmos, tosse convulsa, gripes e problemas gastrointestinais. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o potencial antiproliferativo e genotóxico dos extratos aquosos de Citrus sinensis pelo teste de Allium cepa L., bem como determinar os componentes na mistura complexa (chá). Folhas de duas populações dessa espécie foram utilizadas no preparo das infusões em duas concentrações: 6g.L-1 e 24g.L-1, além de serem usados água destilada como controle negativo e glifosato 9,6% como controle positivo. Utilizaram-se seis grupos de quatro bulbos de A. cepa, cada grupo correspondendo a um dos tratamentos. Os bulbos foram enraizados em água destilada e então transferidos para os respectivos tratamentos onde permaneceram por 24 horas (os bulbos do controle negativo permaneceram em água destilada). As radículas foram coletadas, fixadas em etanol-ácido acético (3:1) por 24 horas e armazenadas em álcool 70%. Foram analisadas 4,000 células por grupo de bulbos, e os índices mitóticos calculados submetidos à análise estatística pelo teste c 2. Os extratos aquosos de C. sinensis têm como componentes principais flavonoides e ácidos fenólicos. Os valores dos índices mitóticos diminuíram com o aumento das concentrações dos extratos, em relação ao controle em água. Os resultados indicaram que os extratos aquosos de laranjeira nas concentrações estudadas das duas populações possuem ação antiproliferativa e genotóxica sobre o ciclo celular de A. cepa.