Toxicological effects of aqueous extract of Genipa americana L. leaves on adult zebrafish (Danio rerio): Chemical profile, histopathological effects and lack of genotoxicity.

Genipa americana is a native plant of Brazil with potential applications in folk medicine. Whereas most of the phytochemical and pharmacological studies on this plant have focused on its fruits, the crude extracts of its leaves contain chemical metabolites that may have toxicity to organisms, which have yet to be investigated. This study aimed to determine the main groups of secondary metabolites in the aqueous extract of the leaves of G. americana by phytochemistry and qualitative HPLC, and to evaluate the possible toxicological effects and histopathological changes caused by this extract in zebrafish (Danio rerio) adults, through micronucleus test, nuclear abnormalities and histopathological analyses of gills and liver. While three metabolites of high intensity (phenolic compounds, flavonoids and triterpenes) were found in the phytochemical evaluation, the HPLC showed results compatible with flavonoids and iridoids, all belonging to common classes for this species and the Rubiaceae family. The acute toxicity test did not induce mortality or genotoxicity in zebrafish, but after exposure for 96 h, it was possible to observe injuries to the fish gill tissue, such as lamellar fusion, vasodilation and telangiectasia; in the liver, necrosis was visualized at 40 mg/L, and at higher concentrations (80 and 100 mg/L) induced sinusoidal widening was identified. In conclusion, the results demonstrated the toxic potential of this plant for aquatic species.

Effect of frugivory on the germination of cumbaru (Dipteryx alata) seeds ingested by tapirs (Tapirus terrestris) in the area of Cerrado, Brazil.

Endozoochory refers to the ingestion of fruits by animals and their release through faeces as it plays an important role in maintaining ecosystems. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cumbaru fruit ingestion by tapirs on cumbaru seed germination. In latrines, fruits ingested and excreted by the animals were collected among tapir faeces. The collected material was taken to the laboratory and placed in a germination chamber and greenhouse. Fruit ingestion and its subsequent defection propitiated a higher germination rate and germination vigor compared to non-ingested fruit grown in a germination chamber and greenhouse. The results in the greenhouse showed that the latrines (decomposing organic matter) have different thermal conditions (higher temperature), in relation to the external environment, which probably accelerated the germination processes. Evaluation of seedlings grown in a greenhouse and germination chamber indicated that growth in the greenhouse was better due to humic and fulvic acids, which are common stimulants of seed germination and seedling growth. Therefore, tapirs can be considered good fruit dispersers and inducers of cumbaru seeds germination.

Therapeutic potential of Smilax fluminensis ethanolic extract: antitumoral activity in murine melanoma cells.

The aim of the study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity of leaves ethanol extract from Smilax fluminensis on murine melanoma. The extract was performed by ethylic alcohol and submitted to classical chemical analysis. Cytotoxicity test were performed on neoplastic cells, where antitumor activity was expressed in GI50 (concentration that inhibits 50% of cell growth) and the determination of selectivity index using a normal cell line. In addition, BALB/c mice models were used to evaluate the in vivo antitumor activity of extract in two different concentrations against B16-F10 melanoma cells. The tumor inhibition ratio was determined and the histopathological analyses of nodules and liver were compared. The chemical analysis indicated a major presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Cytotoxicity test results that S. fluminensis extract was active in B16-F10 line (GI50: 4.37 µg/mL), being the extract considered a promising antineoplastic agent. In the experimental model, the inhibition percentage of tumoral growth was between 78.77 and 83.49%. Histopathology analysis of nodules showed necrotic cells reduction, adipocytes presence, melanin deposition, vascularization, and inflammatory process in a concentration-dependent manner. On the liver, the animals treated with the extract on both concentrations showed normal hepatic organization, normal hepatocytes, and absence of inflammatory focus. The results indicate that S. fluminensis extract demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity, reducing the tumoral growth in B16-F10 and could therefore be a promising antineoplastic agent.

Do Bioactive Food Compound with Avena sativa L., Linum usitatissimum L. and Glycine max L. Supplementation with Moringa oleifera Lam. Have a Role against Nutritional Disorders? An Overview of the In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence.

Functional clinical nutrition is an integrative science; it uses dietary strategies, functional foods and medicinal plants, as well as combinations thereof. Both functional foods and medicinal plants, whether associated or not, form nutraceuticals, which can bring benefits to health, in addition to being included in the prevention and treatment of diseases. Some functional food effects from Avena sativa L. (oats), Linum usitatissimum L. (brown flaxseed), Glycine max L. (soya) and Moringa oleifera have been proposed for nutritional disorders through in vitro and in vivo tests. A formulation called a bioactive food compound (BFC) showed efficiency in the association of oats, flaxseed and soy for dyslipidemia and obesity. In this review, we discuss the effects of BFC in other nutritional disorders, as well as the beneficial effects of M. oleifera in obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus type 2, metabolic syndrome, intestinal inflammatory diseases/colorectal carcinogenesis and malnutrition. In addition, we hypothesized that a BFC enriched with M. oleifera could present a synergistic effect and play a potential benefit in nutritional disorders. The traditional consumption of M. oleifera preparations can allow associations with other formulations, such as BFC. These nutraceutical formulations can be easily accepted and can be used in sweet preparations (fruit and/or vegetable juices, fruit and/or vegetable vitamins, porridges, yogurt, cream, mousses or fruit salads, cakes and cookies) or savory (vegetable purees, soups, broths and various sauces), cooked or not. These formulations can be low-cost and easy-to-use. The association of bioactive food substances in dietary formulations can facilitate adherence to consumption and, thus, contribute to the planning of future nutritional interventions for the prevention and adjuvant treatment of the clinical conditions presented in this study. This can be extended to the general population. However, an investigation through clinical studies is needed to prove applicability in humans.

Benefits of Sebastiania hispida (Euphorbiaceae) extract and photobiomodulation therapy as potentially adjunctive strategies to be explored against snake envenoming.

The purpose of this study was to assess the topic use of Sebastiania hispida extract and low-level gallium-arsenide laser irradiation (GaAs, 904 nm) to reduce the local myonecrosis and edema of Bothrops moojeni snake venom-injected gastrocnemius. Wistar rats receiving intramuscular venom injection (VBm) were compared with saline control (S) and envenomed rats receiving local exposure to plant extract (VExt) or laser irradiation (VL). The phytochemistry and thin-layer chromatography of S. hispida extract indicated the presence of phenolic compounds like gallic acid and flavonoids including quercetin. Gastrocnemius of VExt and VL groups had a significant reduction of edema and creatine kinase (CK) activities and a greater Myogenin (MyoG) expression compared to VBm group, with the plant extract efficacy better than laser exposure. Reduction of edema and serum CK activities reflects a lessening of muscle damage, whereas the increase of MyoG indicates myoblast differentiation and acceleration of muscle repair. The S. hispida richness in phenolic compounds and flavonoids, such as the light modulatory ability to triggering a multitude of cell signalings likely underlie the positive outcomes. Our findings suggest both treatments as potential auxiliary tools to be explored in clinical trials in combination with anti-venom therapy after Bothropic snakebites.

Evaluation of the scientific activity of the leaf of the species Campomanesia pubescens in wound model infected by Staphylococcus aureus

There is an increasing interest in the use of herbal remedies as healing agents, due to their lower cost in relation to other drugs and the vast Brazilian fauna. The objective of this research was to evaluate the cicatrization effect of the guariroba leaf (Campomanesia pubescens) on the healing of infected wounds. We used 45 Wistar rats, distributed in five groups (n = 9) all with surgically induced skin injury, differing in the presence of contamination and treatment, with evaluation periods of 3, 7 and 14 days, being: G1- negative control without contamination, treated with Physiological Solution 0.9%; G2- control with contamination, treated with Physiological Solution 0.9%; G3 negative with contamination, treated with Carbopol in 0.5% gel; G4- positive control with contamination, treated with Colagenase at 0.6 U / g + 0.01 g Chloramphenicol; G5- positive test with contamination treated with Campomanesia pubescens at 3%, whose vehicle was Carbopol at 0.5%. The wound was made with a metal punch 8 mm in diameter, and a cutaneous fragment was removed from the animals' backs and wound infection was applied to S. aureus in groups G2 to G5. Euthanasia was performed for a lethal dose of anesthetic, and the edges of the wounds were removed for histopathological study. The fibrinoleukocytic crust was present in all animals in the groups of 3, 7 and 14 days. The contraction of the wound was also evaluated, and all groups showed low percentage of wound regression in the 3-day treatment and with 14 days presented a high percentage of regression. Of the 5 groups, the only one that presented complete epithelialization was G5. Of the 5 groups, the ones with the best epithelialization were G4 and G5. The group with the highest amount of mature collagen fibers was G4, followed by G5, and the one with the highest proportion of immature fibers was G1. At the end of the experiment, G4 was the group that gained the most weight and G1 the one that had the lowest weight gain. Guariroba leaf extract (Campomanesia pubescens) was able to promote healing in infected skin wounds similar to the group treated with antibiotics.

Steroid androgen 17 alpha methyltestosterone used in fish farming induces biochemical alterations in zebrafish adults.

The 17 alpha methyltestosterone (MT) hormone is fed to Oreochromis niloticus larvae in fish farms with the purpose of inducing sex reversal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the toxicity and sub-lethality of MT (99.9% purity) and cMT (a commercial MT with 90% purity) in zebrafish (Danio rerio) adults, where the animals were exposed to concentrations of 0, 4, 23, 139, 833 and 5000 µg/L for 96 hours. Genotoxicity was evaluated by micronucleus test (MN), nuclear abnormalities (NA) and comet assay. A low genotoxic potential of MT was showed, inducing micronucleus, nuclear abnormalities and DNA damage in Danio rerio, depending on the use of MT or cMT, gender and tested concentrations. In the sub-lethality trials, there was a basal difference in the activity of the enzymatic biochemical markers for males and females, while the Glutatione S transferase (GST) activity decreased in all analyzed tissues, and for males the enzymatic activity decreased only in the intestine. Results suggest that MT has a toxic potential to fish because it alters enzymatic metabolic pathways and may pose a risk to the ecosystems.

Phytochemistry and antifungal potential of Datura inoxia Mill. on soil phytopathogen control / Fitoquímica e potencial antifúngico de Datura inoxia Mill. no controle de fitopatógenos do solo

The application of chemical pesticides for the control of fungal diseases results in impacts on the environment and human health. The use of vegetal extracts with antifungal properties for the proper management of crops becomes a viable alternative, mainly for organic and family farming. The objective of this study was to carry out the phytochemical evaluation of Datura inoxia, evaluating its antifungal potential against the mycelial growth of Fusarium solani and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. The extracts, aqueous and ethanolic, obtained from the leaves of the plant collected in areas of the municipality of Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, were submitted to phytochemical prospecting and quantification of flavonoids and total phenols. It was evaluated its antifungal activity at concentrations of 800, 1200, 1600, 2000, and 2400 µg 100 mL-1. Each concentration was separately incorporated into BDA agar, poured into Petri dishes, and inoculated with the mycelial disc of the fungus. The diameter of the colonies were measured daily. Two solutions were prepared as control, one containing the solvent added to PDA medium (ethanol solution), and another with only PDA medium (without D. inoxia extract, control). In both extracts were found the same diversity of secondary metabolites (nine classes). The ethanolic extract, a solvent of lower polarity than water, was more efficient in the extraction of these constituents. Alkaloids and phenolic compounds were the most frequent compounds (100%). In relation to antifungal activity, the ethanolic extract provided 100% inhibition of mycelial growth ofSclerotinia sclerotitorum in all concentrations, relative to the control. On the other hand, the growth ofFusarium solani was only negatively affected at the highest concentrations of 800 and 1200 µmL-1 100 mL-1. The antifungal potential of Datura inoxia was probably related to the abundance of alkaloids and phenolic compounds in its chemical constitution that negatively effects the development of the vegetative mycelium.

A aplicação de defensivos químicos para o controle de doenças fúngicas tem por consequência impactos sobre o ambiente e a saúde humana. Desta forma, a utilização de extratos vegetais com propriedades antifúngicas associado ao manejo adequado de culturas, torna-se uma proposta viável de controle alternativo, principalmente na agricultura orgânica e familiar. Neste sentido, objetivou-se realizar a avaliação fitoquímica das folhas de Datura inoxia, avaliando seu potencial antifúngico frente ao crescimento micelial de Fusarium solani e Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Os extratos, aquoso e etanólico, obtidos das folhas da planta coletadas em áreas do município de Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, foram submetidos à prospecção fitoquímica e quantificação flavonoides e fenóis totais, avaliando-se sua atividade antifúngica em concentrações de 800, 1200, 1600, 2000 e 2400 µg 100 mL-1. Cada concentração foi incorporada, separadamente, em ágar BDA, vertida em placas de petri, seguida da colocação do disco de micélio do fungo, com diâmetro das colônias sendo medido diariamente. Utilizou-se como controle negativo, ágar sem extrato e ágar com solução etanólica. Nos dois extratos ocorreu a mesma diversidade de metabólitos secundários (nove classes); porém o extrato etanólico, um solvente de menor polaridade que a água, foi mais eficiente na extração destes constituintes, com destaque aos alcaloides e compostos fenólicos com maior frequência (100%). Em relação a atividade antifúngica, o extrato etanólico proporcionou inibição de 100% do crescimento micelial de Sclerotinia sclerotitorum, em todas as concentrações, em relação a testemunha. Por outro lado, o crescimento de Fusarium solani foi afetado negativamente apenas nas maiores concentrações, 800 e 1200 µmL-1 100 mL-1.O potencial antifúngico da planta provavelmente está relacionado a sua constituição química, com abundância de alcaloides e compostos fenólicos, afetando negativamente o desenvolvimento do micélio vegetativo.

Effectiveness of the Aloe Vera extract in the treatment of fistula-in-ano / Eficácia do extrato de Aloe Vera no tratamento da fístula anal

Abstract Rationale: Considering that anal fistulae are still challenging regarding their treatment due to the risk of fecal incontinence in the most complex cases and the increasing use of phytotherapeutic drugs such as Aloe Vera in medicine, even with proven healing effectiveness, there is interest in researching this drug in the treatment of anal fistulae. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Aloe Vera extract in the treatment of anal fistulae in rats. Method: Thirty male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g were submitted to anal fistula and after 30 days were divided into three groups: Control Group (GCo) (n = 5), Carbopol Group (GCa) (n = 5), and Aloe Vera Group (GAV) (n = 10). In the GCo no treatment was performed, while in the others a daily infusion of 0.3 mL of solution (Carbopol only in GCa and Carbopol plus Aloe Vera extract in the GAV) was performed through the external orifice of the fistula for 30 days. Afterwards, euthanasia was performed and specimens were removed for histological study. It was evaluated the closure of the fistulous tract, the area of the remaining tract, the inflammatory infiltrate and the degree of vascular congestion. The results were submitted to statistical treatment by Kruskall-Wallis test, considering p<0.05. Results: There was no complete closure of the fistulous tract in any of the animals. The mean area of the remaining tract was 847.2 µm in the GCo, 565.6 µm in the GCa and 377.8 µm in the GAV (p<0.05). The mean of the inflammatory infiltrate score was 2.4 in the GCo, 2.4 in the GCa and 2.3 in the GAV (p<0.05), while in the evaluation of vascular congestion, we observed a mean of 1.6 in the GCo, 1.4 in GCa and 1.1 in GAV (p<0.05). Conclusion: The extract of Aloe vera was able to reduce the lumen of the fistulous tract and reduce the degree of vascular congestion; however, it did not allow the complete closure of the fistulous tract nor diminished the inflammatory process.

Resumo Racional: Considerando que o tratamento das fístulas anais tem risco de incontinência fecal e o crescente uso do Aloe Vera na medicina, há interesse em se pesquisar este fármaco. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia do extrato de Aloe vera no tratamento das fístulas anais em ratos. Método: Utilizou-se 30 ratos Wistar, os quais foram submetidos à criação de fístula anal e após 30 dias distribuídos em três grupos: Controle (GCo), Carbopol (GCa) e Aloe Vera (GAV). No GCo nenhum tratamento foi realizado, enquanto nos outros realizou-se infusão diária de 0,3 mL de Carbopol GCa e Carbopol mais extrato de Aloe Vera no GAV por 30 dias. Foram retirados os espécimes para estudo histológico, avaliou-se o fechamento do trajeto fistuloso, a área do trajeto remanescente, o infiltrado inflamatório e o grau de congestão vascular. Resultados: Não houve fechamento completo do trajeto fistuloso em nenhum dos animais. A média da área do trajeto remanescente foi 847,2 µm no GCo; 565,6 µm no GCa e 377,8 µm no GAV (p<0,05). A média do escore de infiltrado inflamatório foi 2,4 no GCo; 2,4 no GCa e 2,3 no GAV (p<0.05), enquanto na avaliação da congestão vascular observou-se média 1,6 no GCo; 1,4 no GCa e 1,1 no GAV (p<0,05). Conclusão: O extrato de Aloe Vera foi capaz de diminuir o lumen dos trajetos fistulosos e reduzir o grau de congestão vascular, porém, não permitiu o fechamento completo dos trajetos fistulosos nem diminuiu o processo inflamatório.

Efficacy of Baccharis dracunculifolia in the treatment of diversion colitis in rats / Eficácia da Baccharis dracunculifolia no tratamento da colite de desuso em ratos

Abstract Rationale: Disuse colitis is frequent in our country and the most effective treatment is high cost and there is a need for effective and low cost therapy. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Baccharis dracunculifolia (field rosemary) in the treatment of exclusion colitis in rats. Method: Eighteen Wistar rats were anesthetized and submitted to colostomy; they were then distributed into two groups: Control Group, receiving intrarectal saline infusion (n = 8) and Group BD receiving intrarectal infusion ofBaccharis dracunculifolia extract (n = 10); after 21 days of treatment they were euthanized, the intestinal segment excluded from intestinal transit was resected and submitted to histopathological study, classifying the degree of inflammation and degree of vascular congestion from 0 to 3. Results: Mean inflammation was 2.7 in Control Group versus 2.1 in BD Group (p = 0.049), while mean vascular congestion was 2.3 and 2, respectively, in Control and BD groups (p = 0.1642). Conclusion: Intra-rectal infusion ofBaccharis dracunculifolia extract significantly minimized the inflammatory process in the exclusion colitis of rats submitted to colostomy, without altering the degree of vascular congestion.

Resumo Racional A colite de desuso é frequente em nosso meio e o tratamento de maior eficácia é de alto custo, havendo necessidade de se encontrar uma terapêutica eficaz e de baixo custo. Objetivo Avaliar a eficácia da Baccharis dracunculifolia (alecrim-do-campo) no tratamento da colite de exclusão em ratos. Método Utilizou-se 18 ratos Wistar, os quais foram anestesiados e submetidos à colostomia; em seguida distribuídos em 2 grupos: Grupo Controle, recebendo infusão intrarretal de solução salina (n = 8) e Grupo BD, recebendo infusão intrarretal de extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia (n = 10); após 21 dias de tratamento foram submetidos a eutanásia, o segmento intesinal excluso de trânsito intestinal foi ressecado e submetido a estudo histopatológico classificando-se o grau de inflamação e grau de congestão vascular de 0 a 3. Resultados Verificou-se média de inflamação 2,7 no Grupo Controle vs. 2,1 no Grupo BD (p = 0,049), enquanto as médias de congestão vascular foram 2,3 e 2, respectivamente, nos grupos controle e BD (p = 0,1642). Conclusão A infusão intrarretal do extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia minimizou significantemente o processo inflamatório na colite de exclusão de ratos submetidos à colostomia, sem alterar o grau de congestão vascular.

Treatment of anal fistula with Baccharis dracunculifolia extract. Experimental study in rats. / Tratamento da fístula anal com extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia. Estudo experimental em ratos.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the efficacy of Baccharis dracunculifolia extract in the treatment of anal fistulas in rats. METHODS: twenty male Wistar rats were submitted to anal fistula and, after 30 days, were divided into three groups: Control Group, with five animals; Carbopol Group, with five animals; and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, with ten animals. In the Control Group, no treatment was performed. In the Carbopol Group, a daily infusion of Carbopol was performed for 30 days. In the Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, a daily infusion of Carbopol plus Baccharis dracunculifolia extract was performed for 30 days. Specimens were taken for histological analysis after euthanasia. RESULTS: there was no complete closure of the fistulous tract in any of the animals. The mean area of the remaining tract was of 847.2µm2, 565.6µm2 and 372.7µm2, in the Control Group, Carbopol Group, and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, respectively, (p=0.001). The mean of the inflammatory process score was of 2.4, 2.4, and 2.1, in the Control Group, Carbopol Group, and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, respectively, (p=0.285), while the mean values of vascular congestion were of 1.6, 1.4, and 1.1, in the Control Group, Carbopol Group, and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, respectively, (p=0.031). CONCLUSION: Baccharis dracunculifolia extract was able to reduce the lumen of the fistulous tracts and the degree of vascular congestion, without, however, reducing the local inflammatory process or totally closing the fistulous tracts.

OBJETIVO: avaliar a eficácia do extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia no tratamento de fístulas anais em ratos. MÉTODOS: vinte ratos Wistar machos foram submetidos à confecção de fístula anal e, após 30 dias, foram distribuídos em três grupos: Grupo Controle, com cinco animais; Grupo Carbopol, com cinco animais; e Grupo Baccharis dracunculifolia, com dez animais. No Grupo Controle, não se realizou nenhum tratamento. No Grupo Carbopol, realizou-se infusão diária de carbopol, e no Grupo Baccharis dracunculifolia, infusão de extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia com carbopol, ambos por 30 dias. Foram retirados espécimes para análise histológica após a eutanásia. RESULTADOS: não houve fechamento completo do trajeto fistuloso em nenhum dos animais. A média da área do trajeto resultante foi de 847,2µm2, 565,6µm2 e 372,7µm2, respectivamente, nos Grupos Controle, Carbopol e Baccharis dracunculifolia (p=0,001). A média do escore de processo inflamatório foi de 2,4, 2,4 e 2,1, respectivamente, nos Grupos Controle, Carbopol e Baccharis dracunculifolia (p=0,285), enquanto a média de congestão vascular foi de 1,6, 1,4 e 1,1, respectivamente, nos Grupos Controle, Carbopol e Baccharis dracunculifolia (p=0,031). CONCLUSÃO: o extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia foi capaz de reduzir o lúmen dos trajetos fistulosos e a congestão vascular, sem reduzir, no entanto, o processo inflamatório local ou fechar totalmente os trajetos fistulosos.

EFFICACY OF CURCUMA LONGA IN THE TREATMENT OF DIVERSION COLITIS IN RATS.

BACKGROUND: Diversion colitis is still very common in our country, since the stoma creation is a common practice especially in situations of trauma. needing treatment for this condition. AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of rectal infusion of Curcuma longa (turmeric) in the excluded intestinal segment of rats. METHOD: Eighteen Wistar rats were used and submitted to colostomy: control group (n=8) under rectal saline infusion and group CL, receiving intra-rectal infusion of Curcuma longa extract (n=10). After 21 days of treatment they were submitted to euthanasia; the intestinal segment excluded from intestinal transit was resected and sent to histopathological evaluation, classifying the degree of inflammation and of vascular congestion. RESULTS: The average of inflammation was 2.7 in the control group vs. 2.6 in the CL group (p=0.3125), while the mean vascular congestion was 2.3 and 2.1, respectively, in the control and CL groups (p=0.1642). CONCLUSION: Intra-rectal infusion of Curcuma longa extract was not able to minimize the inflammatory process or vascular congestion in the diversion colitis of rats subjected to colostomy.

Chemical profile and allelopathic potential of Anacardium humile St. Hill. (cajuzinho-do-cerrado) leaf aqueous extract in the seed germination and seedling growth of lettuce, tomato and sicklepod / Perfil químico e potencial alelopático do extrato aquoso de Anacardium humile St. Hill. (cajuzinho-do-cerrado) na germinação e formação de plântulas de alface, tomate e fedegoso

Anacardium genus, Anacardiaceae, stands out for the presence of phenolic compounds. One of its species, investigated for its different potential uses, is Anacardium humile; however, little is known about its allelopathic effects. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the chemical profile and evaluate the herbicide potential of your leaves in the germination of seeds and growth of seedlings of Lactuca sativa(lettuce), Lycopersicon esculentum (tomato) and Senna obtusifolia (sicklepod), both in vitro and in greenhouse. Leaves of A. humile were obtained from 20 matrices of Cerrado fragments in the municipality of Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. A voucher specimen was deposited at the herbarium (no. 8448). The aqueous extract was obtained from dried and crushed leaves using the extraction method of ultrasonic bath (30 min) with subsequent static maceration. After solvent evaporation, 12.78 g of extract were obtained. The chemical profile of the aqueous extract included determination of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, pH, electrical conductivity, and soluble solids concentration. For the in vitro bioassays, the extract was used at different concentrations, namely, 25, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg mL-1. In greenhouse, the substrates were prepared using 950 g of vermiculite and 50 g of A. humile leaf powder at the following ratios: (950/50) (5%), 900/100 (10%), 800/200 (20%), and a control (100% vermiculite), under a completely randomized experimental design. Phenolic compounds and anthraquinones were predominant in the chemical profile of the extract, which presented different levels of allelopathic effect on seed germination and seedling growth of plants both ingermination chamber and in greenhouse, indicating strong allelopathic activity associated with the different compounds found in the leaves. Therefore, the results showed germination and growth inhibition at different levels, indicating that the substances contained in the leaves of Anacardium humile may be a promising alternative for the control of invasive species.

O gênero Anacardium, Anacardiaceae, destaca-se pela presença de compostos fenólicos. Uma de suas espécies, investigada pelos diferentes potenciais de uso, é Anacardium humile. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre seus efeitos alelopáticos. Portanto, o presente trabalho objetivou determinar o perfil químico e avaliar o potencial herbicida de suas folhas sobre a germinação e crescimento de Lactuca sativa (alface), Lycopersicon esculentum (tomate) e Senna obtusifolia (fedegoso) in vitro e em casa de vegetação. Folhas de A. humile foram obtidas de 20 matrizes de Cerrado, município de Campo Grande/MS, Brasil. Uma espécime foi depositada no herbário (N. 8448). O extrato aquoso foi obtido das folhas secas e trituradas e o método de extração foi banho de ultrassom (30 minutos) seguido de maceração estática, sendo o solvente evaporado e 12,78 g de extrato obtido. O extrato foi submetido ao perfil químico e determinado: teor de fenóis totais e flavonóides, pH, condutividade elétrica e concentração de sólidos solúveis. Para os bioensaios in vitro, o extrato foi utilizado em diferentes concentrações (25, 50, 100, 150 e 200 mg mL-1). Em casa de vegetação, os substratos foram preparados com 950 g do substrato vermiculita e 50 g do pó das folhas de A. humile (950/50) (5%); 900/100 (10%); 800/200 (20%), além do controle, 100% vermiculita, com delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. O extrato apresentou como perfil químico predominante os compostos fenólicos e antraquinonas, com efeito alelopático sobre a germinação e crescimento em câmara de germinação e estufa, em diferentes graus, indicando que há uma forte atividade alelopática associada aos diferentes compostos encontrados nas folhas. Portanto, os resultados indicaram germinação e inibição do crescimento, em diferentes níveis, demonstrando que as substâncias contidas nas folhas de A. humile podem ser uma alternativa promissora para o controle de espécies invasoras.

Phytochemistry and fungitoxic potential of extract and fractions of pouteria ramiflora on fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli / Fitoquímica e potencial fungitóxico de extrato e frações de Pouteria ramiflora SOBRE Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli

Among the fungus that attack the common bean crop there is Fusarium solani f.sp. phaseoli (Fsp), causing major losses. Taking into account its importance, the objective of this work was to determine the secondary metabolites class and the potential fungicide of the Pouteria ramiflora leaves on Fsp. The ethanol extract was dissolved in methanol/water and partitioned successively with hexane, dichloromethane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and butanol, subjected to the chemical profile. The solutions were prepared in concentrations of 800, 1200, 1600, 2000 and 2400 µ g/mL and poured into Petri dishes; then, 0.5 cm disc of diameter with spores and mycelia of Fsp was deposited. These dishes were incubated in temperature of 25 ± 2 °C and the evaluations, performed by measuring the colonies diameter (five replications) until reaching the dishes border (three days) with a completely randomized experimental design. Through the Mycelial Index Growth Speed (MIGS) data, analysis of variance was performed and when significant, applied the regression analysis. The results indicated that all fractions and the extract have the phenolic compounds and/or derivatives as one of the major constituents except the hydroethanolic fraction. The extract and its fractions decreased the Fsp MIGS, in the same proportion in which concentrations were increased; the greatest reduction occurred in the butanol fraction at the concentration of 2400 µg/mL, with growth close to zero, indicating its potential use for the Fsp control, probably due to the presence of anthraquinones.

Entre os fungos que acometem a cultura do feijão está Fusarium solani f.sp. phaseoli, causando perdas na produtividade. Levando-se em consideração sua importância, o objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a classe de metabólitos secundários e o potencial fungicida das folhas de curriola (Pouteria ramiflora) sobre F. solani, em condições de laboratório. O extrato etanólico foi dissolvido em metanol/água e particionado sucessivamente com hexâno, diclorometano, clorofórmio, acetato de etila e butanol, submetidos ao perfil químico. As soluções foram preparadas nas concentrações de 800, 1200, 1600, 2000 e 2400 µ g/mL evertidas em placas de petri (10 mL); em seguida, foi depositado um disco de 0,5 cm de diâmetro com esporos e micélio de F. solani. As placas foram incubadas a temperatura de 25 ± 2 °C e as avaliações, realizadas por meio da medição do diâmetro das colônias (cinco repetições) até atingir a borda da placa (três dias), com delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. Através dos dados do Índice de Velocidade de Crescimento Micelial (IVCM), foi realizada a análise de variância e quando significativa, aplicada a análise de regressão. Os resultados indicaram que todos as frações e o extrato possuem os compostos fenólicos e/ou derivados como um dos constituintes majoritários, exceto a fração hidrometanólica. O extrato e suas frações diminuíram o IVCM de F. solani, à medida que se aumentava as concentrações; a maior redução ocorreu na fração butanolica para a concentração de 2400 µ g/mL, com crescimento próximo a zero, indicando seu potencial de uso para controle de F. solani, provavelmente devido a presença de antraquinonas em sua composição.

Tratamento da fístula anal com extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia. Estudo experimental em ratos / Treatment of anal fistula with Baccharis dracunculifolia extract. Experimental study in rats

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a eficácia do extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia no tratamento de fístulas anais em ratos. Métodos: vinte ratos Wistar machos foram submetidos à confecção de fístula anal e, após 30 dias, foram distribuídos em três grupos: Grupo Controle, com cinco animais; Grupo Carbopol, com cinco animais; e Grupo Baccharis dracunculifolia, com dez animais. No Grupo Controle, não se realizou nenhum tratamento. No Grupo Carbopol, realizou-se infusão diária de carbopol, e no Grupo Baccharis dracunculifolia, infusão de extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia com carbopol, ambos por 30 dias. Foram retirados espécimes para análise histológica após a eutanásia. Resultados: não houve fechamento completo do trajeto fistuloso em nenhum dos animais. A média da área do trajeto resultante foi de 847,2µm2, 565,6µm2 e 372,7µm2, respectivamente, nos Grupos Controle, Carbopol e Baccharis dracunculifolia (p=0,001). A média do escore de processo inflamatório foi de 2,4, 2,4 e 2,1, respectivamente, nos Grupos Controle, Carbopol e Baccharis dracunculifolia (p=0,285), enquanto a média de congestão vascular foi de 1,6, 1,4 e 1,1, respectivamente, nos Grupos Controle, Carbopol e Baccharis dracunculifolia (p=0,031). Conclusão: o extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia foi capaz de reduzir o lúmen dos trajetos fistulosos e a congestão vascular, sem reduzir, no entanto, o processo inflamatório local ou fechar totalmente os trajetos fistulosos.

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the efficacy of Baccharis dracunculifolia extract in the treatment of anal fistulas in rats. Methods: twenty male Wistar rats were submitted to anal fistula and, after 30 days, were divided into three groups: Control Group, with five animals; Carbopol Group, with five animals; and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, with ten animals. In the Control Group, no treatment was performed. In the Carbopol Group, a daily infusion of Carbopol was performed for 30 days. In the Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, a daily infusion of Carbopol plus Baccharis dracunculifolia extract was performed for 30 days. Specimens were taken for histological analysis after euthanasia. Results: there was no complete closure of the fistulous tract in any of the animals. The mean area of the remaining tract was of 847.2µm2, 565.6µm2 and 372.7µm2, in the Control Group, Carbopol Group, and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, respectively, (p=0.001). The mean of the inflammatory process score was of 2.4, 2.4, and 2.1, in the Control Group, Carbopol Group, and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, respectively, (p=0.285), while the mean values of vascular congestion were of 1.6, 1.4, and 1.1, in the Control Group, Carbopol Group, and Baccharis dracunculifolia Group, respectively, (p=0.031). Conclusion: Baccharis dracunculifolia extract was able to reduce the lumen of the fistulous tracts and the degree of vascular congestion, without, however, reducing the local inflammatory process or totally closing the fistulous tracts.

The Complex Puzzle of Interactions Among Functional Food, Gut Microbiota, and Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer exerts a strong influence on the epidemiological panorama worldwide, and it is directly correlated to etiologic factors that are substantiated by genetic and environmental elements. This complex mixture of factors also has a relationship involving the structural dependence and composition of the gut microbiome, leading to a dysbacteriosis process that may evolve to serious modifications in the intestinal lining, eventually causing the development of a neoplasm. The gastrointestinal tract presents defense strategies and immunological properties that interfere in intestinal permeability, inhibiting the bacterial translocation, thus maintaining the integrity of intestinal homeostasis. The modulation of the intestinal microbiome and the extinction of risk factors associated with intestinal balance losses, especially of environmental factors, make cell and defense alterations impossible. This modulation may be conducted by means of functional foods in the diet, especially soluble fibers, polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants and prebiotics that signal immunomodulatory effects in the intestinal microbiota, with preventive and therapeutic action for colorectal cancer. In summary, this review focuses on the importance of dietary modulation of the intestinal microbiota as an instrument for dysbacteriosis and, consequently, for the prevention of colorectal cancer, suggesting anticarcinogenic, and antiangiogenic properties. Among the intestinal modulating agents considered here are functional foods, especially flaxseed, oat and soy, composing a Bioactive Food Compound.

Crotalus durissus sp. rattlesnake venom induces toxic injury in mouse sperm.

Accidents involving snakebites constitute a serious public health problem in many regions around the world. However, there are no study about a possible action of snake venom on the reproductive system. Herein we show that Crotalus durissus sp. (Linnaeus) rattlesnake venom (25 µg/kg of body weight) affected chromatin condensation, and increased the number of sperm with abnormal morphology and the sperm count. In conclusion, besides the known hazards of the C. durissus sp. venom to animal health, this study was the first to show its effect also on male germ cells.

The effect of Sebastiania hispida gel on wound model infected by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Medicinal plants are an alternative for the treatment of infected wounds. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Sebastiania hispida in an animal model with a wound infected by Staphylococcus aureus. The crude ethanol extract (ExtEtOH) of S. hispida underwent phytochemical analysis, quantification of metabolites and antibacterial activity analysis performed using S. aureus. Wistar rats were used to test healing activity, and the groups evaluated comprised gels of ExtEtOH at the concentrations 0.2 and 2% compared with control groups. Animals were inoculated with the bacteria S. aureus resistant to methicillin. The treatment periods were of 3 and 21 days. Macroscopic and microscopic analysis were conducted and data were submitted to analysis of variance (p < 0.05). Phytochemical and quantification analysis indicated that phenolic compounds and flavonoids are the major constituents, followed by tyterpenes. ExtEtOH 0.2% was the most effective gel against the growth of strains of S. aureus. Histological wound and regression analysis showed that ExtEtOH gels (0.2% and 2%) were similar and effective in promoting wound healing. In the quantification of collagen fibers, the animals from all groups showed a high amount of thick collagen fibers. Thus, ExtEtOH gels based on the shoots of S. hispida can be used for the treatment of infected wounds as a complementary therapy for infected wound closure and further assays are required with other means. The healing effectiveness may be due to the high content of phenolics, flavonoids and triterpenes.

Antifungal potential of cashew nut shell liquid in the control of plant pathogens / Potencial antifúngico do líquido da castanha de caju no controle de fitopatógenos

Extracted from the fruit of Anacardium occidentale L., Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) is a phenolic lipid that has potential biological use. Conventional pesticides are increasingly being replaced by natural products because of the impact that their mismanagement can have on human health and the environment. The objective of this work was to evaluate the fungicidal potential effect of CNSL on the fungi Colletotrichum gloesporioides and Lasiodiplodia theobromae, in particular its use in reducing negative impacts on fruit production. Chemical and physical tests were conducted to determine features of the sample, such as pH, electrical conductivity and solubility, and to measure its anacardic acid content. In vitro and in vivo tests were also conducted to evaluate the inhibition of mycelial growth on papaya fruit, the identification of volatile components and the inhibition of spore production. CNSL had the highest fungicidal potential for both fungi in vitro at a concentration of 320 µg mL-1, and the same concentration was also maximal for sporulation inhibition in both fungi. In the in vivo tests the protective effect of CNSL was higher for C. gloesporioides fungus, whereas its curative effect was higher for L. theobromae. It was found that the substance with fungicidal potential was non-volatile and that the presence of the pathogens altered the chemical properties of the fruit.

O Líquido da Castanha de Caju é um lipídio fenólico extraído do fruto da Anacardium occidentale L. que demonstra ter potencial de uso biológico. A substituição dos agrotóxicos convencionais por produtos naturais vem aumentando devido aos impactos que o mau manejo pode acarretar a saudade humana e ao meio ambiente. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar o potencial fungicida deste produto frente aos fungos Colletotrichum gloesporioides e Lasiodiplodia theobromae por sua importância nos impactos negativos na produção frutífera. Foram realizados testes químicos e físicos para determinar o padrão da amostra como: pH, condutividade elétrica, solubilidade e determinação do teor de ácido anacárdico na amostra. Para os ensaios biológicos foram realizados testes de inibição do crescimento micelial in vitro e em in vivo em frutos de mamões, determinação de compostos voláteis e inibição da produção de esporos. O LCC apresentou maior potencial fungicida no teste in vitro na concentração de 320 µg mL-1 para ambos os fungos, nesta mesma concentração ocorreu a maior inibição da esporulação tanto para o C. gloesporioides quanto para o L. theobromae. No teste realizado in vivo ocorreu maior inibição para o fungo C. gloesporioides no tratamento protetor e para o fungo L. theobromae o tratamento curativo foi mais eficaz. Constatou-se que a substância com potencial fungicida não é volátil e a presença do patógeno altera os padrões químicos do fruto.

Effects of photobiomodulation therapy on Bothrops moojeni snake-envenomed gastrocnemius of mice using enzymatic biomarkers.

Bothropic venom contains a range of biologically active substances capable of causing severe local and systemic envenoming symptomatology within its victims. The snake anti-venom is effective against systemic effects but has no neutralizing effect against the fast developing local effects. Herein, mice gastrocnemius injected with Bothrops moojeni venom (40 µg/kg) or saline solution were irradiated with HeNe (632.8 nm) and GaAs (904 nm) lasers (daily energy density of 4 J/cm2; 0.03/0.21 power density; 0.07/0.16 spot size; 1.2/0.04 total energy, 1 cm off contact, for HeNe and GaAs lasers, respectively) and euthanized in periods ranging from 3 h to 21 days. Blood biochemistry for creatine kinase (CK), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), acid phosphatase (AP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate transaminase (AST), and myoglobin and histopathological analysis, for assessing the degree of myonecrosis and regeneration of gastrocnemius, were done at every time interval. GaAs laser promoted faster photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) effects, and the GaAs group exhibited a better clinical outcome than the HeNe group. Within the GaAs group, the serum levels of CK, LDH, AP, AST, and myoglobin, which were increased by the physiological effects of the venom, were reduced to initial baseline before snake envenomation in less time than those irradiated by the HeNe laser. However, the group receiving irradiation from the HeNe laser returned the levels of ALP activity to baseline faster than those of the GaAs group. Histopathological analysis revealed enhanced muscle regeneration in mice groups treated with both lasers. PBM promoted by GaAs and HeNe showed well-developed centrally nucleate regenerating cells and an increased number of newly formed blood vessels when compared to unirradiated muscle. We therefore suggest that GaAs had the best outcomes likely derived from a deeper penetrating longer wavelength. We conclude that PMBT is a promising, non-invasive approach to be further tested in pre-clinical studies with a goal to further its clinical use in skeletal muscle recovery in snakebite victims.