Chemical Composition and In Vitro and In Silico Antileishmanial Evaluation of the Essential Oil from Croton linearis Jacq. Stems.

Croton linearis Jacq. is an aromatic shrub that has been utilized in traditional medicine in the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Cuba. Recent studies have revealed the antiprotozoal potential of its leaves. The present work is aimed to identify the volatile constituents of essential oil from the stems of C. linearis (CLS-EO) and evaluate its in vitro antileishmanial activity. In addition, an in silico study of the molecular interactions was performed using molecular docking. A gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric analysis of CLS-EO identified 1,8-cineole (27.8%), α-pinene (11.1%), cis-sabinene (8.1%), p-cymene (5.7%), α-terpineol (4.4%), epi-γ-eudesmol (4.2%), linalool (3.9%), and terpinen-4-ol (2.6%) as major constituents. The evaluation of antileishmanial activity showed that CLS-EO has good activity on both parasite forms (IC50Promastigote = 21.4 ± 0.1 µg/mL; IC50Amastigote = 18.9 ± 0.3 µg/mL), with a CC50 of 49.0 ± 5.0 µg/mL on peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice (selectivity index = 2 and 3 using the promastigote and amastigote results). Molecular docking showed good binding of epi-γ-eudesmol with different target enzymes of Leishmania. This study is the first report of the chemical composition and anti-Leishmania evaluation of CLS-EO. These findings provide support for further studies of the antileishmanial effect of this product.

Inhibition of Bacterial Adhesion and Biofilm Formation by Seed-Derived Ethanol Extracts from Persea americana Mill.

The increase in antibiotic resistance demands innovative strategies to combat microorganisms. The current study evaluated the antibacterial and antivirulence effects of ethanol extracts from Persea americana seeds obtained by the Soxhlet (SE) and maceration (MaE) methods. The UHPLC-DAD-QTOF analysis showed mainly the presence of polyphenols and neolignan. Ethanol extracts were not cytotoxic to mammalian cells (CC50 > 500 µg/mL) and displayed a moderate antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (IC50 = 87 and 187 µg/mL) and Staphylococcus aureus (IC50 = 144 and 159 µg/mL). Interestingly, no antibacterial activity was found against Escherichia coli. SE and MaE extracts were also able to significantly reduce the bacterial adhesion to A549 lung epithelial cells. Additionally, both extracts inhibited the biofilm growth at 24 h and facilitated the release of internal cell components in P. aeruginosa, which might be associated with cell membrane destabilization. Real-time PCR and agarose electrophoresis gel analysis indicated that avocado seed ethanol extracts (64 µg/mL) downregulated virulence-related factors such as mexT and lasA genes. Our results support the potential of bioproducts from P. americana seeds as anti-adhesive and anti-biofilm agents.

Potencial antioxidante del extracto de hojas de Spondias mombin L. en etanol al 70 % / Antioxidant potential of Spondias mombin L. leaf extract in 70% ethanol / Potencial antioxidante do extrato da folha de Spondias mombin L. em etanol 70%

RESUMEN Introducción: La especie Spondias mombin L. es una planta que crece en Cuba y a la que se le reporta un número considerables de aplicaciones etnofarmacológicas y elevado poder antioxidante. Sin embargo, la mayor parte de estos reportes está orientada al fruto, el cual resalta por su valor nutricional. Objetivo: Evaluar la actividad antioxidante de un extracto de hojas de Spondias mombin L. en etanol al 70 %. Método: La actividad antioxidante fue evaluada por seis métodos diferentes: determinación del índice de oxidación, poder reductor, inhibición de los radicales DPPH y ABTS, capacidad reductora del peróxido de hidrógeno y capacidad de neutralización del radical oxígeno. Se evaluaron concentraciones desde los 1 000 hasta los 62,5 µg/mL preparadas a partir del valor de sólidos totales determinados. Resultados: Para el índice de oxidación, concentraciones de 250 µg/mL resultaron suficientes para decolorar la solución de permanganato en igual período de tiempo que el patrón de quercetina. Sin embargo, los IC50 calculados para el poder reductor, la inhibición del radical DPPH y del ABTS resultaron mayores que el estándar de ácido ascórbico con valores de 362,33; 190,34 y 241,88 µg/mL, respectivamente. Conclusiones: El extracto de hojas de Spondias mombin L. en etanol al 70 % presenta una elevada acción antioxidante en los seis modelos experimentales ensayados, aun cuando en la mayor parte de casos, con valores inferiores al de la sustancia de referencia empleada. Estos resultados conjuntamente con la diversidad estructural de metabolitos presentes en el mismo resaltan su valor como potencial antioxidante natural.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The species Spondias mombin L. is a plant that grows in Cuba, and to which a considerable number of ethnopharmacological applications and high antioxidant power are reported. However, most of these reports are oriented to the fruit, which stands out for its nutritional value. Objective: To evaluate the antioxidant activity of an extract of Spondias mombin L. leaves in 70% ethanol. Method: The antioxidant activity was evaluated by six different methods: determination of the oxidation index, reducing power, inhibition of DPPH and ABTS radicals, hydrogen peroxide reducing capacity and oxygen radical neutralization capacity. Concentrations from 1000 to 62.5 µg/mL were evaluated, prepared from the value of total solids determined. Results: For the oxidation index, concentrations of 250 µg/mL were sufficient to decolorize the permanganate solution in the same period of time as the quercetin standard. However, the IC50 calculated for the reducing power, the inhibition of the DPPH radical and ABTS were higher than the ascorbic acid standard with values of 362.33; 190.34 and 241.88 µg/mL, respectively. Conclusions: The extract of leaves of Spondias mombin L. in 70% ethanol presents a high antioxidant action in the six experimental models tested, even though in most cases, with lower values than the reference substance used. These results, together with the structural diversity of metabolites present in it, highlight its value as a potential natural antioxidant.

RESUMO Introdução: A espécie Spondias mombin L. é uma planta que cresce em Cuba e à qual são relatados um número considerável de aplicações etnofarmacológicas e alto poder antioxidante. No entanto, a maioria desses relatos é voltada para o fruto, que se destaca pelo seu valor nutricional. Objetivo: Avaliar a atividade antioxidante de um extrato de folhas de Spondias mombin L. em etanol 70%. Método: A atividade antioxidante foi avaliada por seis diferentes métodos: determinação do índice de oxidação, poder redutor, inibição dos radicais DPPH e ABTS, capacidade redutora do peróxido de hidrogênio e capacidade de neutralização do radical oxigênio. Foram avaliadas concentrações de 1000 a 62,5 µg/mL, preparadas a partir do valor de sólidos totais determinado. Resultados: Para o índice de oxidação, concentrações de 250 µg/mL foram suficientes para descolorir a solução de permanganato no mesmo período de tempo do padrão de quercetina. No entanto, o IC50 calculado para o poder redutor, a inibição do radical DPPH e ABTS foram superiores ao padrão de ácido ascórbico com valores de 362,33; 190,34 e 241,88 µg/mL, respectivamente. Conclusões: O extrato de folhas de Spondias mombin L. em etanol 70% apresenta alta ação antioxidante nos seis modelos experimentais testados, embora na maioria dos casos com valores inferiores à substância de referência utilizada. Esses resultados, juntamente com a diversidade estrutural de metabólitos presentes nele, destacam seu valor como potencial antioxidante natural.

Antiplasmodial activity of alkaloids from Croton linearis leaves.

Croton linearis is a shrub that grows in Caribbean regions, which is rich in metabolites such as alkaloids. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the antiplasmodial effect of alkaloids from this species. Three isoquinoline alkaloids, i.e. reticuline (1), laudanidine (2) and 8,14-dihydrosalutaridine (3), were isolated from the leaves of C. linearis by flash chromatography and semi-preparative HPLC-DAD-MS. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques. Antiplasmodial activity against the chloroquine-resistant strain Plasmodium falciparum K1 and cytotoxicity against MRC-5 cells (human fetal lung fibroblast cells) were assessed in vitro. Reticuline, laudanidine and 8,14-dihydrosalutaridine showed moderate antiplasmodial activity with IC50 values of 46.8 ± 0.6, 17.7 ± 0.6 and 16.0 ± 0.5 µM, respectively, but no cytotoxicity was observed in a concentration up to 64.0 µM. This is the first report on the antiplasmodial activity of laudanidine and 8,14-dihydrosalutaridine.

Novel flavonol-3-O-methylethers from Zanthoxylum pistaciifolium Griseb. (Rutaceae).

Zanthoxylum pistaciifolium Griseb. is a tree endemic to Cuba, occasionally used in herbal medicine. Previously, the antitrypanosomal activity of a n-hexane-2-butanone extract of Z. pistaciifolium leaves and of its constituent skimmianine were published. In the current study a more thorough examination of the respective extract is performed, which led to the isolation and identification of three flavonoids, more specifically, the flavonol-3-O-methylethers kaempferol-3-O-methylether (1) and novel compounds kaempferol-3-O-methylether-5-O-ß-D-glucoside (2) and kaempferol-8-hydroxy-3,7-O-dimethylether-5-O-ß-D-glucoside (3). All compounds were screened for their antimicrobial and antiprotozoal activity and cytotoxicity towards MRC-5 SV2 cells. Compound 1 showed a moderate to weak activity against Trypanosoma cruzi (IC50 30.8 µM), T. brucei (IC50 15.4 µM) and Plasmodium falciparum (IC50 53.8 µM), but also showed cytotoxicity (CC50 19.0 µM). Compounds 2 and 3 did not display activity in any of the assays (IC50 and CC50 > 64 µM).[Formula: see text].

Antifungals from plants: a bibliometric analysis of the last two decades (2000-2020) / Antifúngicos de plantas: un análisis bibliométrico de las últimas dos décadas (2000-2020)

This study aimed to analyse the world scientific production on antifungals from plants indexed in the Scopus database (2000-2020), highlighting the Cuban scientific production on this topic as a case study. Scopus raw data based on antifungal and plants hits were cleaned using the OpenRefine tool to eliminate similar and duplicate results. Cleaned data was processed using VOSviewer software for keyword-based bibliometric analysis. The 5000 most common words from the Corpus of Contemporary American English were excluded. A co-occurrence analysis was performed taking into account only authors keywords and using the complete count method. 24 084 documents were identified, of which 85.8percent were original articles and 9.6percent were reviews. The most productive journals were Journals of Ethnopharmacology, Natural Product Research and Fitoterapia. The annual scientific production was uniform with a linear growth. The thematic structure according to the co-occurrence network indicates that the most frequent terms were essential oils, antioxidant, medicinal plants, Candida albicans and flavonoids. In the case of Cuba, of the 64 publications on the subject, 90.6percent were original articles and 6.3percent were reviews. The Cuban magazines with the highest production were Revista Cubana de Plantas Medicinales and Biotecnología Aplicada. The most frequent terms according to the co-occurrence network in Cuban publications were Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, plant leaf, antimicrobial activity, medicinal plants and flavonoids. These results prove that the global scientific community as well as the Cuban scientist are interested on the topic, further demonstrating that plants could become a reliable source of antifungal drugs(AU)

El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar la producción científica mundial sobre antifúngicos de plantas recogida en la base de datos Scopus (2000-2020), con atención a la producción científica cubana como caso/estudio. Los datos resultantes de la búsqueda por coincidencia de las palabras antifungal y plants se filtraron con la herramienta OpenRefine, que eliminó resultados similares y duplicados. Se empleó el programa VOSviewer para el análisis bibliométrico basado en palabras claves, que excluyó las 5000 más comunes del Corpus of Contemporary American English. Se realizó un análisis de coocurrencia que consideró las palabras clave definidas por los autores en cada artículo a través del método de conteo completo. Se identificaron 24 084 documentos, de los cuales un 85,8 por ciento resultaron artículos originales y un 9,6 por ciento, artículos de revisión. Las revistas más productivas fueron Journals of Ethnopharmacology, Natural Product Research y Fitoterapia. La producción científica anual fue uniforme, con un crecimiento lineal. La red de coocurrencia indicó que los términos más frecuentes fueron aceites esenciales, antioxidante, plantas medicinales, Candida albicans y flavonoides. En Cuba, de las 64 publicaciones sobre el tema, el 90,6 por ciento resultaron ser artículos originales y 6,3 por ciento, artículos de revisión. Las revistas cubanas con mayor producción fueron Revista Cubana de Plantas Medicinales y Biotecnología Aplicada. Los términos más frecuentes en las publicaciones cubanas fueron Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, hojas de plantas, actividad antimicrobiana, plantas medicinales y flavonoides. Estos resultados demuestran que, tanto la comunidad científica mundial como la cubana, manifiestan creciente interés en el tema, lo cual evidencia el potencial de las plantas como fuente confiable de medicamentos antifúngicos(AU)

Anti-inflammatory effect of Adelia ricinella L. aerial parts.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the main chemical components and the anti-inflammatory activity of extracts of Adelia ricinella L. aerial parts. METHODS: Three extracts obtained by soxhlet extraction and ethanol/water mixtures were evaluated in their chemical composition by UPLC-DAD-MS/MS. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of the prepared extracts was assessed through three different assays: COX-1 and COX-2 enzymatic inhibition, cell-based COX assays on RAW264.7 macrophages (ATCC) measuring the COX-2 protein expression by Western blot and the measurement of the PGE2 concentration in the supernatants of the culture medium. Also was determinate the effect of the three extracts on the RAW 264.7 cell viability. KEY FINDINGS: Few differences in the phytochemical profile were found between the three prepared extracts, identifying a blend of thirteen flavonoids derived from luteolin and apigenin, with orientin as main constituent. Plant extracts (alcoholic and aqueous) did not affect the macrophage cell viability (IC50 > 256 µg/ml) and significantly reduced COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme activities. Additionally, COX-2 expression and PGE2 release were suppressed after 24 h of LPS stimulation and treatment with plant extracts (8-64 µg/ml). CONCLUSIONS: A. ricinella extracts showed the ability to reduce the inflammatory effect exerted by LPS in murine macrophages. However, further studies should confirm their anti-inflammatory activity.

Antimicrobial activity of leaf extracts and isolated constituents of Croton linearis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Leaves of Croton linearis, known as "rosemary", are widely used in folk medicine in Caribbean countries to treat fever and colds (associated to infections). AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of extracts and fractions derived from C. linearis leaves. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation of compounds from an ethanolic extract of C. linearis, using flash chromatography and semi-preparative HPLC-DAD-MS (High Performance Liquid Chromatography - Diode Array Detection - Mass Spectrometry). Isolated compounds were characterized by MS, 1D- and 2D-NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) spectroscopy. The microdilution method with resazurin, as well as direct counting with an optical microscope, were used to determine the in vitro antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi and parasites. Moreover, the cytotoxicity on human fetal lung fibroblasts (MRC-5) was evaluated. RESULTS: The total extract and chloroform fraction (ClF) showed high activity against protozoa with IC50 values ranging from 1 to 26 µg/mL, but also cytotoxicity on MRC-5 and PMM (Peritoneal Murine Macrophages). Seven compounds were isolated and characterized for first time in this species: the alkaloids laudanidine, laudanosine, reticuline, corydine, glaucine and cularine and the flavonoid glycoside isorhamnetin-3-O-(6″O-p-trans-coumaroyl)-ß-glucopyranoside. Reticuline showed a weak activity against L. infantum (IC50 148.0 ±â€¯1.2 µM), while the flavonoid was active against T. cruzi (IC50 35.6 ±â€¯2.3 µM). CONCLUSIONS: The results show the antiprotozoal potential of the extract and some isolated constituents, which supports the use of this species in Caribbean folk medicine.

Bioassay-guided In vitro Study of the Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Properties of the Leaves from Excoecaria Lucida Sw.

BACKGROUND: Excoecaria lucida Sw. (Euphorbiaceae) is a plant conventionally used throughout the Caribbean in the treatment of infectious diseases. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate, using bioassay-guided fractionation, the in vitro cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity of E. lucida leaves. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 95% ethanol crude extract was dried and fractionated by solid-liquid separation in four phases (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and butanol). Antimicrobial activity (3 bacteria, 6 yeasts, and 2 fungi) was evaluated by the dilution method with resazurin (2048, 512, 128, 32, and 8 µg/mL). The cytotoxicity assays were evaluated in two cell lines: MRC-5 and RAW 264.7; calculating the selectivity index. Assays were performed for the total extract, the isolated compound with the highest yield, and the ethyl acetate and butanol phases. Isolated compounds were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry techniques. RESULTS: Fractionation process led to the isolation of ellagic acid (784.29 mg), 3,3',4'-tri-O-methyl ellagic 4-O-ß-D-glucopyranoside acid (6.1 mg), and corilagin (6.91 mg). The most active were ethyl acetate phase and ellagic acid with IC50= 128 µg/mL against seven and five different species of microorganisms, respectively. The total extract (IC50=512 µg/mL) and the ethyl acetate phase (IC50=128 µg/mL) were cytotoxic in both cell lines, while butanol phase and ellagic acid both with IC50>2048 µg/mL seemed to be safer. CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained indicate that the Excoecaria leaves can be conventionally used as antimicrobial, but it should be present that some cytotoxicity could appear. In addition, the three identified compounds were reported for the first time in the species. SUMMARY: Excoecaria lucida leaves (Euphorbiaceae) are used by the Cuban population due to their antimicrobial activity. This ethnopharmacological knowledge is confirmed by the integrated antibacterial and antifungal in vitro screening developed, using the bioassay-guided fractionation method.Abbreviations Used: MRC-5-SV2: Diploid human lung fibroblasts cells, RAW 264.7: Murine macrophages cells, IC50: Inhibitory Concentration 50%, ATCC: American Type Culture Collection, CCEBI: Culture Collection of Industrial Biotechnology Center, CECT: Spanish Culture Collection Type, CFU: Colony forming units, CC50: 50% cytotoxic concentration, CO2: Carbon dioxide, SI: Selectivity index, IR: Infrared spectroscopy, 1H NMR: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance of hydrogen, 13C NMR: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance of carbon, HMQC: Heteronuclear Multiple-Quantum Correlation, HMBC: Heteronuclear Multiple Bond Correlation, COSY: Correlation Spectroscopy, NOESY: Nuclear Overhauser Effect Spectroscopy, KBr: Potassium bromide, DMSO-D6: Deuterated dimethyl sulfoxide, LC.MS: Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, [α]D: Optical rotation, EL1: ellagic acid, EL2: 3,3',4'-tri-O-methyl ellagic 4-O-ß-D-glucopyranoside acid, EL3: corilagin, Active (+), inactive (-).

Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activity of a New Tablets Formulation from Tamarindus indica L.

Hepatotoxic chemicals damage liver cells primarily by producing reactive oxygen species. The decoction of the leaves of Tamarindus indica L. is used for liver disorders. In this work we evaluated the hepatoprotective activity of a tablet formulation of this plant. Thirty-five Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 7). First group (I) is control group, fed with standard diet. Groups II to V (hepatotoxic groups) were subjected to a subcutaneous injection of CCl4 (0.5 mL/kg). Group II was negative control, fed with standard diet; group III was subjected to administration of Silymarin 150 mg/kg and groups IV and V were treated with tablets in dose of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, respectively. Lipid peroxidation and the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and reduced glutathione were evaluated. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamine transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and a lipid profile were evaluated too. The tablets inhibit lipid peroxidation. The redox balance (SOD-CAT-GSH) remains normal in the experimental groups treated with tablets. The liver function using dose of 200 mg/kg of tablets was better than the other experimental groups. These results justify, scientifically, the ethnobotanical use of the leaves of Tamarindus indica L.

Acute Toxicity and Dermal and Eye Irritation of the Aqueous and Hydroalcoholic Extracts of the Seeds of "Zapote" Pouteria mammosa (L.) Cronquist.

The common use of Pouteria mammosa (L.) Cronquist, "Mamey or Zapote," in food and ethnobotanic medicine shows its low or absent toxicity as fruit extracts prepared from seeds. However, it is essential to conduct security trials to scientifically support their use in drug therapy. This study evaluated the aqueous and hydroalcoholic extract (25%) Acute Oral Toxicity, obtained from the seeds of P. mammosa, in Sprague Dawley rats and dermal and eye irritability in New Zealand rabbits. The 404 and 405 acute dermal and eye irritation/corrosion guidelines were used, as well as the 423 Acute Oral Toxicity guideline, Acute Toxic Class Method of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The aqueous extract was located in the following category: not classified as toxic (CTA 5), while hydroalcoholic extract at 25% was classified as dangerous (CTA 4). Both extracts can be used without side reaction that irritates the skin which permitted classification as potentially not irritant. P. mammosa in the two extracts caused mild and reversible eye irritation, and it was classified as slightly irritating.

Evaluación fitoquímica de hojas de Excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité) (Euphorbiaceae) y Aislamiento e Identificación de un hemiterpenoide / Fitochemistry evaluation of leaves of Excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité) (Euphorbiaceae) and isolation e identification of a hemiterpenoid

INTRODUCCIÓN: excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité), es una especie que crece en Cuba y en la región del Caribe. La misma ha sido poco estudiada por científicos a pesar de que la población la utiliza con fines medicinales, en lo principal como antiasmático, antimicrobiano y para el dolor dental. OBJETIVOS: determinar la composición química de las hojas, así como aislar e identificar estructuralmente metabolitos secundarios. MÉTODOS: las hojas secas y molidas, se maceraron 72 horas con etanol al 95 % y se repitió el procedimiento en 4 ocasiones. Al extracto total se le determinó su composición química cualitativa y posterior se fraccionó con solventes. La fase de mayor rendimiento fue estudiada por Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Resolución y aislada la sustancia mayoritaria, la cual fue caracterizada por espectroscopía infrarroja y de Resonancia Magnética Nuclear 1H y 13C a 500 MHz (HMQC, HMBC, COSY y NOESY). RESULTADOS: se determinó la presencia cualitativa de alcaloides, triterpenos y esteroides, quinonas, flavonoides, cumarinas, lactonas sesquiterpénicas, fenoles y taninos. De la fase de mayor rendimiento (butanólica= 23,48 g) se logró aislar e identificar el compuesto mayoritario perteneciente a un hemiterpenoide. CONCLUSIONES: los metabolitos secundarios detectados coinciden con los reportes para otras especies del género. Se informa por primera vez para el género y la especie el aislamiento e identificación del hemiterpenoide (2E)-2-metil-2-buten-1,4-diol-1-O-ß-D-glucopiranósido.

INTRODUCTION: excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité), it is a species that grow in Cuba and at the Caribbean region. It has been scientifically quite a little studied, in spite of the fact that the population utilizes it due to their medicinal properties as antiasthmatic, antimicrobial, and for the toothache treatment. OBJECTIVES: to determine the chemical composition of leaves, as well as the isolation and identification of their secondary metabolites. METHODS: dried and milled leaves were macerated 72 hours with ethanol 95 %, repeating the procedure in 4 occasions. Total extract was determined in his chemical qualitative composition and afterwards it was fragmented with solvents. The phase with greater yield was studied by High Performance Liquid Chromatography and isolated the main substance, which was characterized by infrared and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy: uni-dimensional 1H and 13C at 500 MHz and bi-dimensional HMQC, HMBC, COSY and NOESY. RESULTS: the identification of Alkaloids, triterpenes and steroids, quinone, flavonoids, coumarins, sesqiterpenic lactones, tannins and phenols were accomplished. From the greater yield phase (butanol= 23.48 g) was isolated and identified the main compound, a hemiterpenoid. CONCLUSIONS: the identified secondary metabolites are in coincidence with other reports related to the genera. For first time the hemiterpene (2E)-2-methyl-2- buten-1,4-di-hydroxyl-1-O-ß-D-glucopyranoside is informed in this genera and specie.

Evaluación fitoquímica de hojas de Excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité) (Euphorbiaceae) y Aislamiento e Identificación de un hemiterpenoide / Fitochemistry evaluation of leaves of Excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité) (Euphorbiaceae) and isolation e identification of a hemiterpenoid

Introducción: excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité), es una especie que crece en Cuba y en la región del Caribe. La misma ha sido poco estudiada por científicos a pesar de que la población la utiliza con fines medicinales, en lo principal como antiasmático, antimicrobiano y para el dolor dental. Objetivos: determinar la composición química de las hojas, así como aislar e identificar estructuralmente metabolitos secundarios. Métodos: las hojas secas y molidas, se maceraron 72 horas con etanol al 95 por ciento y se repitió el procedimiento en 4 ocasiones. Al extracto total se le determinó su composición química cualitativa y posterior se fraccionó con solventes. La fase de mayor rendimiento fue estudiada por Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Resolución y aislada la sustancia mayoritaria, la cual fue caracterizada por espectroscopía infrarroja y de Resonancia Magnética Nuclear 1H y 13C a 500 MHz (HMQC, HMBC, COSY y NOESY). Resultados: se determinó la presencia cualitativa de alcaloides, triterpenos y esteroides, quinonas, flavonoides, cumarinas, lactonas sesquiterpénicas, fenoles y taninos. De la fase de mayor rendimiento (butanólica= 23,48 g) se logró aislar e identificar el compuesto mayoritario perteneciente a un hemiterpenoide. Conclusiones: los metabolitos secundarios detectados coinciden con los reportes para otras especies del género. Se informa por primera vez para el género y la especie el aislamiento e identificación del hemiterpenoide (2E)-2-metil-2-buten-1,4-diol-1-O-β-D-glucopiranósido(AU)

Introduction: excoecaria lucida Sw. (Aité), it is a species that grow in Cuba and at the Caribbean region. It has been scientifically quite a little studied, in spite of the fact that the population utilizes it due to their medicinal properties as antiasthmatic, antimicrobial, and for the toothache treatment. Objectives: to determine the chemical composition of leaves, as well as the isolation and identification of their secondary metabolites. Methods: dried and milled leaves were macerated 72 hours with ethanol 95 percent, repeating the procedure in 4 occasions. Total extract was determined in his chemical qualitative composition and afterwards it was fragmented with solvents. The phase with greater yield was studied by High Performance Liquid Chromatography and isolated the main substance, which was characterized by infrared and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy: uni-dimensional 1H and 13C at 500 MHz and bi-dimensional HMQC, HMBC, COSY and NOESY. Results: the identification of Alkaloids, triterpenes and steroids, quinone, flavonoids, coumarins, sesqiterpenic lactones, tannins and phenols were accomplished. From the greater yield phase (butanol= 23.48 g) was isolated and identified the main compound, a hemiterpenoid. Conclusions: the identified secondary metabolites are in coincidence with other reports related to the genera. For first time the hemiterpene (2E)-2-methyl-2- buten-1,4-di-hydroxyl-1-O-β-D-glucopyranoside is informed in this genera and specie(AU)

Formulación de cápsulas duras de Tamarindus indica L / Formulation of hard capsules from Tamarindus indica L

OBJETIVO: formular cápsulas duras a partir de extracto blando de Tamarindus indica L. MÉTODOS: se seleccionaron las cantidades de los excipientes lactosa monohidratada, almidón de maíz y dióxido de silicio coloidal (Aerosil®), utilizando un diseño factorial 23. Se seleccionó para envasar en cápsulas, el granulado con mejor fluidez y menor humedad residual. Se evaluó la calidad de las cápsulas duras. RESULTADOS: la formulación escogida fue lactosa monohidratada 35,0 g, Aerosil® 3,0 g y almidón de maíz 7,5 g, pues mostró buena fluidez y una humedad residual de 4,17 por ciento. Las cápsulas duras formuladas, presentaron buena calidad tecnológica. CONCLUSIONES: se obtuvieron cápsulas duras que pueden ser preparadas, a pequeña escala, a nivel dispensarial(AU)

OBJECTIVE: to formulate hard capsules from Tamarindus indica L. soft extract. METHODS: the amounst of the exicipients called lactose monohydrate, corn starch and colloidal silicon dioxide (Aerosil®) were selected, using a 23 full factorial design. The selection of the best formulation was based on the best rheological properties and the least residual humidity. The quality of the filled hard capsules was evaluated. RESULTS: the formulation containing lactose monohydrate 35.0 g, Aerosil® 3.0 g and corn starch 7.5 g was selected. This formulation showed good fluidity and 4.17 percent residual humidity. Hard capsules showed good technological quality. CONCLUSIONS: hard capsules that can be prepared at small-scale production dispensaries(AU)

State of the art in Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) / Estado del arte sobre Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga)

INTRODUCTION: the species Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) is recognized by the Cuban Health System and the population for its antianemic properties, in spite of the unpleasant odor of its fruit. OBJECTIVES: to perform a bibliographic update about the chemical, toxicological and pharmacologic characteristics of the study species. METHODS: an extensive review was conducted in international databases such as HighWire, DOAJ, EBSCO, Scielo, Scopus, Chemical Abstract, Medline, PudMed, and Pharmaceutical Abstract, in addition to the national database CuMed from the year 1900 until 2012. RESULTS: there are still not enough studies that certify its usefulness and pharmaco-toxicological safety as antianemic, and few pharmaceutical formulations have been developed. The fruit is the most studied organ of the species. CONCLUSIONS: it is necessary to carry out new investigations to certify its antianemic effect and develop new therapeutic alternatives to eliminate the unpleasant odor of Cassia grandis L. f. fruit formulations.

INTRODUCCIÓN: la especie Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) es reconocida en el sistema de salud cubano y su población por sus propiedades antianémicas, a pesar del desagradable olor de sus frutos. OBJETIVO: evaluar el estado del arte sobre aspectos químicos, toxicológicos y farmacológicos de Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) desde 1900 hasta 2012. MÉTODOS: se revisó en bases de datos internacionales como HighWire, DOAJ, EBSCO, Scielo, Scopus, Chemical, Abstract, Medline, PudMed, y Pharmaceutical Abstract, además de la base de datos nacional CuMed desde 1900 hasta 2012. RESULTADOS: aún son insuficientes los estudios que avalan su utilidad y seguridad farmacotoxicológica como antianémico, así como pocas las formulaciones farmacéuticas desarrolladas. El fruto es el órgano más estudiado de la especie. CONCLUSIONES: se necesita realizar nuevas investigaciones para avalar su efecto antianémico y de otras alternativas terapéuticas que permitan eliminar el olor desagradable de las preparaciones de los frutos de esta planta.

Formulación de cápsulas duras de Tamarindus indica L / Formulation of hard capsules from Tamarindus indica L

Objetivo: formular cápsulas duras a partir de extracto blando de Tamarindus indica L. Métodos: se seleccionaron las cantidades de los excipientes lactosa monohidratada, almidón de maíz y dióxido de silicio coloidal (Aerosil), utilizando un diseño factorial 2³. Se seleccionó para envasar en cápsulas, el granulado con mejor fluidez y menor humedad residual. Se evaluó la calidad de las cápsulas duras. Resultados: la formulación escogida fue lactosa monohidratada 35,0 g, Aerosil 3,0 g y almidón de maíz 7,5 g, pues mostró buena fluidez y una humedad residual de 4,17 por ciento. Las cápsulas duras formuladas, presentaron buena calidad tecnológica. Conclusiones: se obtuvieron cápsulas duras que pueden ser preparadas, a pequeña escala, a nivel dispensarial(AU)

Objective: to formulate hard capsules from Tamarindus indica L. soft extract. Methods: the amounst of the exicipients called lactose monohydrate, corn starch and colloidal silicon dioxide (Aerosil®) were selected, using a 2³ full factorial design. The selection of the best formulation was based on the best rheological properties and the least residual humidity. The quality of the filled hard capsules was evaluated. Results: the formulation containing lactose monohydrate 35.0 g, Aerosil® 3.0 g and corn starch 7.5 g was selected. This formulation showed good fluidity and 4.17per cent residual humidity. Hard capsules showed good technological quality. Conclusions: hard capsules that can be prepared at small-scale production dispensaries(AU)

State of the art in Cassia grandis L f (cañandonga)

Introduction: the species Cassia grandis L f (cañandonga) is recognized by the Cuban Health System and the population for its antianemic properties, in spite of the unpleasant odor of its fruit. Objectives: to perform a bibliographic update about the chemical, toxicological and pharmacologic characteristics of the study species. Methods: an extensive review was conducted in international databases such as HighWire, DOAJ, EBSCO, Scielo, Scopus, Chemical Abstract, Medline, PudMed, and Pharmaceutical Abstract, in addition to the national database CuMed from the year 1900 until 2012. Results: there are still not enough studies that certify its usefulness and pharmaco-toxicological safety as antianemic, and few pharmaceutical formulations have been developed. The fruit is the most studied organ of the species. Conclusions: it is necessary to carry out new investigations to certify its antianemic effect and develop new therapeutic alternatives to eliminate the unpleasant odor of Cassia grandis L f fruit formulations(AU)

Introducción: la especie Cassia grandis L f (cañandonga) es reconocida en el sistema de salud cubano y su población por sus propiedades antianémicas, a pesar del desagradable olor de sus frutos. Objetivo: evaluar el estado del arte sobre aspectos químicos, toxicológicos y farmacológicos de Cassia grandis L f (cañandonga) desde 1900 hasta 2012. Métodos: se revisó en bases de datos internacionales como HighWire, DOAJ, EBSCO, Scielo, Scopus, Chemical, Abstract, Medline, PudMed, y Pharmaceutical Abstract, además de la base de datos nacional CuMed desde 1900 hasta 2012. Resultados: aún son insuficientes los estudios que avalan su utilidad y seguridad farmacotoxicológica como antianémico, así como pocas las formulaciones farmacéuticas desarrolladas. El fruto es el órgano más estudiado de la especie. Conclusiones: se necesita realizar nuevas investigaciones para avalar su efecto antianémico y de otras alternativas terapéuticas que permitan eliminar el olor desagradable de las preparaciones de los frutos de esta planta(AU)

Estado del arte sobre Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) / State of the art in Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga)

Introducción: la especie Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) es reconocida en el sistema de salud cubano y su población por sus propiedades antianémicas, a pesar del desagradable olor de sus frutos. Objetivo: evaluar el estado del arte sobre aspectos químicos, toxicológicos y farmacológicos de Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) desde 1900 hasta 2012. Métodos: se revisó en bases de datos internacionales como HighWire, DOAJ, EBSCO, Scielo, Scopus, Chemical, Abstract, Medline, PudMed, y Pharmaceutical Abstract, además de la base de datos nacional CuMed desde 1900 hasta 2012. Resultados: aún son insuficientes los estudios que avalan su utilidad y seguridad farmacotoxicológica como antianémico, así como pocas las formulaciones farmacéuticas desarrolladas. El fruto es el órgano más estudiado de la especie. Conclusiones: se necesita realizar nuevas investigaciones para avalar su efecto antianémico y de otras alternativas terapéuticas que permitan eliminar el olor desagradable de las preparaciones de los frutos de esta planta(AU)

Introduction: the species Cassia grandis L. f. (cañandonga) is recognized by the Cuban Health System and the population for its antianemic properties, in spite of the unpleasant odor of its fruit. Objectives: to perform a bibliographic update about the chemical, toxicological and pharmacologic characteristics of the study species. Methods: an extensive review was conducted in international databases such as HighWire, DOAJ, EBSCO, Scielo, Scopus, Chemical Abstract, Medline, PudMed, and Pharmaceutical Abstract, in addition to the national database CuMed from the year 1900 until 2012. Results: there are still not enough studies that certify its usefulness and pharmaco-toxicological safety as antianemic, and few pharmaceutical formulations have been developed. The fruit is the most studied organ of the species. Conclusions: it is necessary to carry out new investigations to certify its antianemic effect and develop new therapeutic alternatives to eliminate the unpleasant odor of Cassia grandis L. f. fruit formulations(AU)

Role of polyphenols in the antimicrobial activity of ethanol Tamarindus indica L leaves fluid extract / Papel de los polifenoles en la actividad antimicrobiana del extracto fluido de las hojas de Tamarindus indica L

The aim of this work was to explore in an active, fractioned, and chemically characterized Tamarindus indica L. (TIL) leaves extract, the influence of flavonoids and polyphenol compounds on the antimicrobial activity. A spectrophotometric quantification of the total phenols and flavonoids content was determinate to the TIL leaves extract, as well as, to the four fractions in which was fractioned (n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol). The extracts and their fractions were microbiologically tested against six ATCC bacteria and Candida albicans, being determined their minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC). Additionally, the extracts were evaluated in their influence on human complement system (classical and alternative pathways). Fractions with high content of flavonoids and polyphenols (ethyl acetate and n-butanol) are active against Bacillus subtilis and inhibit the human complement system (direct pathway, IC50 31.05 and 33.65 ug/mL respectively), but are not active over Staphylococcus aureus. However, this bacterium was susceptible to fractions with low or null concentration of flavonoid or polyphenol compounds. No fractions neither the fluid extract were active against Salmonella typhimurium and Candida albicans. Experimental data suggest that phenols and flavonoids are not the only components involved in the antimicrobial activity of TIL leaves as has been previously suggested by other authors. Complement activity tests did not support a putative role on the antimicrobial activity.

El objetivo de este trabajo fue explorar en un extracto activo de hojas de Tamarindus indica L. (TIL), fraccionado y caracterizado químicamente, la influencia de los polifenoles y flavonoides en su actividad antimicrobiana. Se cuantificaron por espectroscopia UV-visible los contenidos de fenoles totales y flavonoides en el extracto de TIL así como de las cuatro fracciones obtenidas (n-hexano, cloroformo, acetato de etilo y n-butanol). Se evaluó la actividad microbiológica del extracto y sus fracciones contra seis bacterias ATCC y Candida albicans, determinándose sus concentraciones mínimas inhibitorias y bactericidas (MIC y MBC). Adicionalmente, se evaluó la influencia de los extractos en el sistema de complemento humano (vía clásica y alternativa). Las fracciones con altas concentraciones de polifenoles y flavonoides (acetato de etilo y n-butanol) fueron activas contra el Bacillus subtilis e inhibieron el sistema de complemento humano (vía directa, IC50 31.05 y 33.65 g/mL, respectivamente), pero no fueron activas contra Staphylococcus aureus. Sin embargo, esta bacteria fue susceptible a fracciones con baja o nula concentración de polifenoles y flavonoides. El extracto fluido y todas sus fracciones resultaron inactivos frente a Salmonella typhimurium y Candida albicans. Los datos experimentales sugieren que los fenoles y flavonoides no son los únicos compuestos involucrados en la actividad antimicrobiana de hojas de TIL, como había sugerido por otros autores. La actividad medida sobre el sistema de complemento, no aporta relevancia a la actividad antimicrobiana de las hojas de TIL.