Pedoclimatic Conditions Influence the Morphological, Phytochemical and Biological Features of Mentha pulegium L.

In this study, Mentha pulegium leaves and flowers harvested in three different Sicilian areas were investigated from a micromorphological, phytochemical and biological point of view. Light and scanning electron microscopy showed the presence of spherocrystalline masses of diosmin both in the leaf epidermal cells and in thin flower petals. Two different chemotypes were identified (I, kaempferide/rosmarinic acid; II, jaceidin isomer A). Phytochemical screening identified plant from collection site II as the richest in total phenolics (16.74 g GAE/100 g DE) and that from collection site I as the richest in flavonoids (46.56 g RE/100 g DE). Seventy-seven metabolites were identified both in flower and leaf extracts. Plant from site II showed the best antioxidant (0.90-83.72 µg/mL) and anti-inflammatory (27.44-196.31 µg/mL) activity expressed as half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) evaluated by DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, ORAC, BSA denaturation and protease inhibition assays. These data were also corroborated by in vitro cell-based assays on lymphocytes and erythrocytes. Moreover, plant of site II showed the best antiangiogenic properties (IC50 33.43-33.60 µg/mL) in vivo on a chick chorioallantoic membrane. In conclusion, pedoclimatic conditions influence the chemotype and the biological activity of M. pulegium, with chemotype I showing the most promising biological properties.

Large-breast reconstruction using fat graft only after prosthetic reconstruction failure.

BACKGROUND: When prosthetic reconstruction fails, and in the case of absolute contraindications to flaps use, no common reconstructive option is available. METHODS: A large irradiated breast was reconstructed using only fat grafts (9 sessions) after prosthetic reconstruction failure (exposure of implant) due to absolute contraindications to general anesthesia and unavailability of large flaps. During the first four sessions small volumes were implanted in the extremely rigid and retracted tissues with regenerative purposes. Larger volumes were implanted during the last five sessions to improve volume and shape. RESULTS: A pleasant aesthetic result was achieved. Tissue regeneration with good vascular support was evident at ultrasonography and magnetic resonance. Histologic and ultrastructural examination of the new tissue showed normal adipose tissue with cell and vasculostromal maturation aspects. No degenerative or inflammatory aspects were present. CONCLUSION: Fat graft transplantation can be a reliable and safe option for breast reconstruction in selected patients.