Anti-inflammatory, healing and antiophidic potential of Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill. (Euphorbiaceae): From popular use to pharmaceutical formulation in gel.

Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) is widely used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory disorders. So, a topical gel containing the hydroethanolic extract of its leaves was developed and evaluated for its anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antiophidic properties in mice. First, the chemical profile of different parts of the plant was characterized by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) using molecular networking. In the leaf extract, 11 compounds were characterized, with a particular emphasis on the identification of flavonoids. The gel efficiently inhibited carrageenan-induced paw edema, as well as acute and chronic croton oil-induced ear edema models, thereby reducing inflammatory and oxidative parameters in inflamed tissues. Besides anti-inflammatory activity, the herbal gel showed significant wound healing activity. The edematogenic, hemorrhagic and dermonecrotic activities induced by Bothrops jararaca snake venom were effectively inhibited by the treatment with J. mollissima gel. The association with the herbal gel improved in up to 90% the efficacy of commercial snake antivenom in reduce venom-induced edema. Additionally, while antivenom was not able to inhibit venom-induced dermonecrosis, treatment with herbal gel reduced in 55% the dermonocrotic halo produced. These results demonstrate the pharmacological potential of the herbal gel containing J. mollissima extract, which could be a strong candidate for the development of herbal products that can be used to complement the current antivenom therapy against snake venom local toxicity.

Detection, Isolation, and 1H NMR Quantitation of the Nitrile Glycoside Sarmentosin from a Bryophyllum pinnatum Hydro-Ethanolic Extract.

Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam) Pers. (Crassulaceae) is widely used in folk medicine as leaf juice, aqueous, or hydro-ethanolic extracts. It is also listed as a medicinal plant in several countries such as France and Brazil. The main reported constituents are flavone glycosides, especially those with the rare 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-α-l-rhamnopyranoside moiety. Despite several phytochemical screenings indicating the presence of cyanide derivatives or alkaloids, there are no reports of nitrogenous metabolite characterization from this plant species. Nevertheless, the occurrence and the type of such compounds are of particular interest, as they may account for some of the numerous biological activities and ethnomedicinal uses described for B. pinnatum and could be regarded as chemical/taxonomic markers. Consequently, a hydro-ethanolic extract of B. pinnatum was investigated by using UHPLC-HRMS/MS and the nitrile glucoside sarmentosin was detected for the first time within the genus Bryophyllum/Kalanchoe. Considering the wide use of B. pinnatum and its closely related species for health purposes, the target metabolite was isolated by a combination of centrifugal partition chromatography in elution/extrusion mode and MPLC in order to confirm its structure. A linear, selective, precise, fast, and reliable 1H NMR quantitation method was then developed and validated and may become a tool for easy quality assessment of the plant species. The amount of sarmentosin was determined as 2.07% of the examined sample. Sarmentosin was also detected in Kalanchoe laciniata, confirming the occurrence of this compound within the genus.

Antiviral Potential of Spondias mombin L. Leaves Extract Against Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1 Replication Using In Vitro and In Silico Approaches.

Spondias mobin leaves have been traditionally used for treating cold sores. The study investigated the mechanism of antiherpes action of S. mombin extract, fractions, and geraniin. Different concentrations of samples were used to evaluate the in vitro antiherpes activity (anti-HSV-1) in virucidal, post-infection, attachment, and penetration assays. The mechanism of action of geraniin was investigated considering the glycoproteins gB and gD of HSV-1 surface as potential molecular targets. Molecular docking simulations were carried out for both in order to determine the possible binding mode position of geraniin at the activity sites. The binding mode position was posteriorly optimized considering the flexibility of the glycoproteins. The chemical analysis of samples was performed by LC-MS and revealed the presence of 22 substances, which are hydrolysable tannins, O-glycosylated flavonoids, phenolic acids, and a carbohydrate. The extract, tannin-rich fraction and geraniin showed important in vitro virucidal activity through blocking viral attachment but showed no relevant inhibition of viral penetration. The in silico approaches demonstrated a high number of potential strong intermolecular interactions as hydrogen bonds between geraniin and the activity site of the glycoproteins, particularly the glycoprotein gB. In silico experiments indicated that geraniin is at least partially responsible for the anti-herpes activity through interaction with the viral surface glycoprotein gB, which is responsible for viral adsorption. These results highlight the therapeutic potential of S. mombin anti-herpes treatment and provides support for its traditional purposes. However, further studies are required to validate the antiviral activities in vivo, as well as efficacy in humans.

Kalanchoe laciniata and Bryophyllum pinnatum: an updated review about ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology

Abstract The species Kalanchoe laciniata (L.) DC. and Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam) Pers. are native from Brazil and Madagascar, respectively. Both belonging to the Crassulaceae family and being widely used by population as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. These species have similar leaf morphology and for this reason, they are known by the same popular name as " saião " or " coirama ". Several studies have been published involving different parts and preparations of these species. Therefore, this review aims to provide an update overview about the traditional uses, chemical constitution, pharmacology and toxicology of K. laciniata and B. pinnatum species. An extensive literature review was conducted in different scientific databases. Various chemical constituents have been identified in extracts from different parts of K. laciniata and B. pinnatum , being flavonoids the major compounds. They have been traditionally used to treat inflammation, microbial infection, pain, respiratory diseases, gastritis, ulcers, diabetes and cancer tumors. Non-clinical in vitro assays evaluated mainly the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, while in vivo assays evaluated the leishmanicide, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Regarding toxicity, few studies have been conducted for the two species. The information reported in this work might contribute to the recognition of the importance of K. laciniata and B. pinnatum species, as well as to direct further studies. (AU)

Identification of a Selective PDE4B Inhibitor From Bryophyllum pinnatum by Target Fishing Study and In Vitro Evaluation of Quercetin 3-O-α-L-Arabinopyranosyl-(1→2)-O-α-L-Rhamnopyranoside.

Natural products are considered an important source of bioactive compounds especially in biodiversity-rich countries like Brazil. The identification of potential targets is crucial to the development of drugs from natural sources. In this context, in silico methodologies, such as inverse virtual screening (target fishing), are interesting tools as they are a rational and direct method that reduces costs and experimental time. Among the species of Brazilian biomes, Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Oken, native to Madagascar, is widely used by the population to treat inflammation conditions. It has a remarkable presence of flavonoids, including quercetin 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1→2)-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (1), considered one of its major compounds. However, until now there were no studies addressing its putative mechanism of action and explaining its pharmacological action. The enzyme PDE4B, known as an antiinflammatory protein, was indicated as a promising target by target fishing methods. This activity was confirmed by in vitro enzymatic inhibition, and an expressive selectivity of PDE4B over PDE4A was demonstrated. The interactions were investigated through molecular dynamics simulations. The results were pioneering, representing an advance in the investigation of the antiinflammatory action of B. pinnatum and confirm the potential of the flavonoid as a chemical extract marker. Also, the flavonoid was shown to be a promising lead for the design of other selective PDE4B blockers to treat inflammatory diseases.

Development of an effective and safe topical anti-inflammatory gel containing Jatropha gossypiifolia leaf extract: Results from a pre-clinical trial in mice.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Jatropha gossypiifolia L. (Euphorbiaceae) is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory remedy. The topical use of the leaves and/or aerial parts of this plant as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, wound healing and anti-infective in several skin diseases is a common practice in many countries. The use of baths or dressings with this vegetal species is frequently reported in folk medicine. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the topical anti-inflammatory of aqueous extract from leaves of J. gossypiifolia and to develop a safe and effective herbal gel with anti-inflammatory potential. MATERIAL AND METHODS: First, the topical acute anti-inflammatory activity of J. gossypiifolia extract was evaluated in ear edema induced by single application of croton oil in mice. Then, a polaxamer-based gel containing J. gossypiifolia extract was developed, physicochemically characterized and evaluated in the same model of inflammation to assess whether the extract incorporation in gel would affect its anti-inflammatory potential. The best formulation was then assayed in ear edema induced by multiple applications of croton oil in mice, to evaluate its chronic anti-inflammatory potential. Inflammatory parameters evaluated included edema, nitrite concentration, mieloperoxidase (MPO) activity and oxidative damage in lipids and proteins. Finally, dermal irritation/corrosion test in mice was performed to access the safeness of the developed gel. Phytochemical characterization of J. gossypiifolia extract was performed by high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) analysis. RESULTS: J. gossypiifolia showed significant acute anti-inflammatory activity in ear edema model, and this activity was significantly increased when equivalent amounts of extract was applied incorporated in the developed polaxamer gels. The gels containing different amounts of extract reduced significantly the levels of edema, nitrite and MPO enzyme in mice ears, with intensity similar to the anti-inflammatory standard drug dexamethasone. The gel containing 1.0% of extract was further evaluated and also showed significant anti-inflammatory activity in chronic inflammation test, reducing significantly ear edema, lipid peroxidation and depletion of reduced glutathione, similarly to dexamethasone. Placebo formulation as well as gel containing extract showed pH compatible to that of human skin and exhibited absence of signs of toxicity in mice, indicating the safeness of the developed product for topical use. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of C-glycosylflavonoids (orientin, isoorientin, vitexin and isovitexin) as the major compounds of J. gossypiifolia aqueous leaf extract. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate the potentiality of J. gossypiifolia gel as a promising safe and effective topical anti-inflammatory agent for treatment of cutaneous inflammatory diseases.

Comparison of two Jatropha species (Euphorbiaceae) used popularly to treat snakebites in Northeastern Brazil: Chemical profile, inhibitory activity against Bothrops erythromelas venom and antibacterial activity.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Jatropha species (Euphorbiaceae) are largely used in traditional medicine to treat different pathologies in Africa, Asia and Latin America. In Northeastern Brazilian folk medicine, several Jatropha species, such as Jatropha gossypiifolia L. and Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill., are indistinctly used to treat snakebites. AIM OF THE STUDY: To compare two of the Brazilian most used Jatropha species for snakebites (J. gossypiifolia and J. mollissima), in relation to their ability to inhibit local edematogenic activity of Bothrops erythromelas snake venom in mice, their in vitro antibacterial activity and phytochemical profile. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Aqueous leaf extracts of J. gossypiifolia (AEJg) and J. mollissima (AEJm) were prepared by decoction. AEJg and AEJm were compared chemically, by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analysis. They were also pharmacologically compared, using the mouse model of paw edema induced by Bothrops erythromelas snake venom (BeV), and in vitro by broth microdilution and agar dilution antimicrobial tests. RESULTS: Flavonoids were detected as the major compounds in both extracts. However, AEJg and AEJm showed quantitatively different chemical profiles by HPLC-DAD. AEJg presented fewer peaks of flavonoids than AEJm, however, when the intensity of peaks were analyzed, these compounds were at high concentration in AEJg, even using the same concentration of both extracts. Differences were also observed in the biological activity of the two extracts. While no difference was observed when the extracts were administered by oral route (P > 0.05), by the intraperitoneal route AEJg presented anti-edematogenic activity significantly (P < 0.001) higher than AEJm. In antimicrobial assays, only AEJg presented antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. CONCLUSIONS: Although used indistinctly by folk medicine, our results suggested that AEJg is more active than AEJm in relation to its antiedematogenic and antibacterial activities. Significant differences were observed in their phytochemical profiles, especially a higher content of C-glycosylated flavonoids in the most active species, which could justify the different biological effects observed. These findings strengthen the potentiality of J. gossypiifolia species for use as complementary treatment for local effects induced by Bothrops venoms and could be helpful for distinction of the species and control quality assessment of future herbal medicines based on Jatropha plants.

Comparison of two Jatropha species (Euphorbiaceae) used popularly to treat snakebites in Northeastern Brazil: chemical profile, inhibitory activity against Bothrops erythromelas venom and antibacterial activity

Jatropha species (Euphorbiaceae) are largely used in traditional medicine to treat different pathologies in Africa, Asia and Latin America. In Northeastern Brazilian folk medicine, several Jatropha species, such as Jatropha gossypiifolia L. and Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill., are indistinctly used to treat snakebites. To compare two of the Brazilian most used Jatropha species for snakebites (J. gossypiifolia and J. mollissima), in relation to their ability to inhibit local edematogenic activity of Bothrops erythromelas snake venom in mice, their in vitro antibacterial activity and phytochemical profile. Aqueous leaf extracts of J. gossypiifolia (AEJg) and J. mollissima (AEJm) were prepared by decoction. AEJg and AEJm were compared chemically, by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analysis. They were also pharmacologically compared, using the mouse model of paw edema induced by Bothrops erythromelas snake venom (BeV), and in vitro by broth microdilution and agar dilution antimicrobial tests. RESULTS: Flavonoids were detected as the major compounds in both extracts. However, AEJg and AEJm showed quantitatively different chemical profiles by HPLC-DAD. AEJg presented fewer peaks of flavonoids than AEJm, however, when the intensity of peaks were analyzed, these compounds were at high concentration in AEJg, even using the same concentration of both extracts. Differences were also observed in the biological activity of the two extracts. While no difference was observed when the extracts were administered by oral route (P > 0.05), by the intraperitoneal route AEJg presented anti-edematogenic activity significantly (P < 0.001) higher than AEJm. In antimicrobial assays, only AEJg presented antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. Although used indistinctly by folk medicine, our results suggested that AEJg is more active than AEJm in relation to its antiedematogenic and antibacterial activities. Significant differences were observed in their phytochemical profiles, especially a higher content of C-glycosylated flavonoids in the most active species, which could justify the different biological effects observed. These findings strengthen the potentiality of J. gossypiifolia species for use as complementary treatment for local effects induced by Bothrops venoms and could be helpful for distinction of the species and control quality assessment of future herbal medicines based on Jatropha plants.

Comparison of two Jatropha species (Euphorbiaceae) used popularly to treat snakebites in Northeastern Brazil: Chemical profile, inhibitory activity against Bothrops erythromelas venom and antibacterial activity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Jatropha species (Euphorbiaceae) are largely used in traditional medicine to treat different pathologies in Africa, Asia and Latin America. In Northeastern Brazilian folk medicine, several Jatropha species, such as Jatropha gossypiifolia L. and Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill., are indistinctly used to treat snakebites. AIM OF THE STUDY: To compare two of the Brazilian most used Jatropha species for snakebites (J. gossypiifolia and J. mollissima), in relation to their ability to inhibit local edematogenic activity of Bothrops erythromelas snake venom in mice, their in vitro antibacterial activity and phytochemical profile. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Aqueous leaf extracts of J. gossypiifolia (AEJg) and J. mollissima (AEJm) were prepared by decoction. AEJg and AEJm were compared chemically, by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analysis. They were also pharmacologically compared, using the mouse model of paw edema induced by Bothrops erythromelas snake venom (BeV), and in vitro by broth microdilution and agar dilution antimicrobial tests. RESULTS: Flavonoids were detected as the major compounds in both extracts. However, AEJg and AEJm showed quantitatively different chemical profiles by HPLC-DAD. AEJg presented fewer peaks of flavonoids than AEJm, however, when the intensity of peaks were analyzed, these compounds were at high concentration in AEJg, even using the same concentration of both extracts. Differences were also observed in the biological activity of the two extracts. While no difference was observed when the extracts were administered by oral route (P > 0.05), by the intraperitoneal route AEJg presented anti-edematogenic activity significantly (P < 0.001) higher than AEJm. In antimicrobial assays, only AEJg presented antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. CONCLUSIONS: Although used indistinctly by folk medicine, our results suggested that AEJg is more active than AEJm in relation to its antiedematogenic and antibacterial activities. Significant differences were observed in their phytochemical profiles, especially a higher content of C-glycosylated flavonoids in the most active species, which could justify the different biological effects observed. These findings strengthen the potentiality of J. gossypiifolia species for use as complementary treatment for local effects induced by Bothrops venoms and could be helpful for distinction of the species and control quality assessment of future herbal medicines based on Jatropha plants.

Iridoids from leaf extract of Genipa americana

Abstract Genipa americana L., Rubiaceae, is a plant native from Brazil popularly known as "jenipapo". Two iridoids, 1-hydroxy-7-(hydroxymethyl)-1,4aH,5H,7aH-cyclopenta[c]pyran-4-carbaldehyde (1), and iridoid 7-(hydroxymethyl)-1-methoxy-1H,4aH,5H,7aH-cyclopenta[c]pyran-4-carbaldehyde (2) were isolated and identified in the leaf extract of G. americana. Compounds 1 and 2 were identified for the first time in G. americana, and 1 has not been yet described in literature. These substances were analyzed by spectroscopic techniques such as infrared, high resolution mass spectrometry, 1H and 13C 1D; as well as 2D nuclear magnetic resonance. Moreover, the presence of flavonoids was detected by a preliminary analysis by Thin Layer Chromatography.

Monoaminergic neurotransmission is mediating the antidepressant-like effects of Passiflora edulis Sims fo. edulis.

The genus Passiflora is popularly used to treat anxiety. Recent studies showed antidepressant-like effects of two varieties of P. edulis (edulis and flavicarpa) in mice. However, the mechanisms of antidepressant actions are still unknown. Here, the effects of P. edulis fo. edulis aqueous extract (AE, 100-300mg/kg, po), and ethyl acetate (AcOEt, 25-50mg/kg, po), butanol (BuOH, 25-50mg/kg, po) and residual aqueous (25-100mg/kg, po) fractions were investigated in the mouse forced swimming test. In addition, the involvement of monoamines in the P. edulis fractions-induced antidepressant actions was approached. HPLC analyses showed that AcOEt and BuOH, but not residual, fractions shared with AE the main peaks between 25 and 70min (UV 340nm), which are suggestive of flavonoids. Nortriptyline and fluoxetine reduced the immobility time and similar results were observed for AE, AcOEt and BuOH but not residual fractions. PCPA (inhibitor of 5-HT synthesis), AMPT (inhibitor of catecholamine synthesis) and sulpiride (selective D2 receptor antagonist), but not DSP-4 (noradrenergic neurotoxin), blocked the antidepressant actions of AcOEt and BuOH. In conclusion, AcOEt and BuOH fractions shared with AE similar phytochemical composition and antidepressant actions. Preserved 5-HT and dopamine transmissions were required for the antidepressant effects of P. edulis fractions.

Aqueous extract from Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) leaves and its phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory activity in murine models of edema, peritonitis and air-pouch inflammation.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr.) Roem. and Schult.(Convolvulaceae), popularly known as salsa or salsa-brava, is a plant of which the decoction of leaves is used in folk medicine to treat various inflammatory disorders such of dermatitis, scabies, symptoms of syphilis, skin ulcers and external wounds. However, little is known about possible compounds and mechanisms of action of the plant to support the activities reported by popular use. AIM OF THE STUDY: The study aimed to identify bioactive molecules present in the crude extract of I. asarifolia leaves and investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of this extract in different experimental in vivo models to improve the understanding on that activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Aqueous extract of I. asarifolia leaves was prepared by decoction (1:10 m/v) and its chromatographic profile was obtained by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) and liquid chromatography diode array detector coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-MS). The potential anti-inflammatory activity of the extract was assessed using the following in vivo models: xylene-induced ear edema (20, 30 and 40mg/kg), evaluating the degree of edema formation; carrageenan-induced peritonitis (10, 20 and 30mg/kg), evaluating leukocyte migration and cytokine levels (IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-α) at 4h; zymosan-induced air pouch inflammation (20, 30 and 40mg/kg), evaluating the kinetics of leukocyte migration by total and differential counts at 6, 24 and 48h. The same tests were conducted using pure compounds identified in the aqueous extract from I. asarifolia leaves in different doses for each experimental model. RESULTS: The compounds identified in the aqueous extract of I. asarifolia leaves by HPLC-DAD and LC-DAD-MS were rutin, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid. The extract significantly reduced ear edema induced by xylene (81%, 85% and 86% for doses of 20, 30 and 40mg/kg, respectively, p<0.001), as well as cell migration in experimental models of peritonitis (70%, 78% and 83% for doses of 10, 20 and 30mg/kg, respectively, p<0.001) and air pouch inflammation (58%, 67% and 53% for doses of 20, 30 and 40mg/kg, respectively, p<0.001). In addition, the extract demonstrated the ability to significantly inhibit the production of cytokines IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-α (p<0.001). The secondary metabolites tested (rutin, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid) also showed the ability to significantly (p<0.001) decrease the parameters analyzed above. CONCLUSION: This is the first study to identify and confirm these phenolic compounds in I. asarifolia leaves extract and to suggest that these compounds contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity in vivo, as reported by ethnomedicinal use of this plant. Through the different experimental models performed, we can conclude that the results obtained with the aqueous extract from I. asarifolia leaves support its popular use for the treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Phytochemical study and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of Spondias mombin leaves

Abstract Spondias mombin L., Anacardiaceae, is a plant native of Brazil, where it is known as "cajá". In order to find a potential application for this native species, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects were investigated. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using the in vivo model carrageenan-induced peritonitis in mice. The in vitro antioxidant potential as well the cytotoxicity against 3T3 fibroblast cells also were evaluated. Through High Performance Liquid Chromatography-diode array detector analysis, an analytic method was developed and validated. It allowed the identification and quantification of ellagic acid and chlorogenic acid in hydroethanolic extract of S. mombin leaves. This extract showed anti-inflammatory effect at 100, 200, 300 and 500 mg/kg, however, the ethyl acetate fraction, at 200 mg/kg, showed the highlighted results. Ellagic acid and chlorogenic acid (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) also inhibited the leukocyte migration to the site of inflammation. The extract, fractions and compounds showed significant antioxidant potential when evaluated in different assays. The results shown in this work suggest the anti-inflammatory potential of the leaf extract of S. mombim on peritonitis model induced by carrageenan, it was also observed antioxidant properties associated with an absence of cytotoxicity in cell culture. Further in vivo studies are required to confirm the anti-inflammatories action of S. mombin and its possible anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action.

Comparative central effects of the aqueous leaf extract of two populations of Passiflora edulis

ABSTRACTPassiflora edulis Sims, Passifloraceae, has been used in Brazilian traditional folk medicine to the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. P. edulis is commonly known for its economic interests in Brazil. This species exhibits significant variability in the fruit rind color, then two subpopulations has been described (P. edulis fo. flavicarpa O. Deg. (PEF); P. edulis fo. edulis (PEE)). This study compared phytochemical profile and biological actions of aqueous leaf extract of PEE and PEF. HPLC analysis showed marked distinct chromatograms to the P. edulisvarieties. However, in both extracts the major compounds observed were flavonoids C-glycosides. Behavioral studies showed that PEE (300 mg/kg, p.o.) and PEF (100 and 300 mg/kg, p.o.) reduced anxiety in the elevated plus maze test. PEE (300 and 1000 mg/kg, p.o.) and PEF (1000 mg/kg, p.o.) also induced antidepressant-like actions in the forced swimming test. PEE 1000 mg/kg significantly reduced distance moved, thus suggesting sedation. No alterations in sleeping time were observed with PEE and PEF extracts. In conclusion, despite the similarities between the biological actions observed for both P. edulis varieties, quite different phytochemical profile was herein reported. These data suggest that the anxiolytic and antidepressant actions are not due to a specific phytochemical component.

Aqueous leaf extract of Jatropha gossypiifolia L. (Euphorbiaceae) inhibits enzymatic and biological actions of Bothrops jararaca snake venom.

Snakebites are a serious public health problem due their high morbi-mortality. The main available specific treatment is the antivenom serum therapy, which has some disadvantages, such as poor neutralization of local effects, risk of immunological reactions, high cost and difficult access in some regions. In this context, the search for alternative therapies is relevant. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antiophidic properties of Jatropha gossypiifolia, a medicinal plant used in folk medicine to treat snakebites. The aqueous leaf extract of the plant was prepared by decoction and phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of sugars, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenes and/or steroids and proteins. The extract was able to inhibit enzymatic and biologic activities induced by Bothrops jararaca snake venom in vitro and in vivo. The blood incoagulability was efficiently inhibited by the extract by oral route. The hemorrhagic and edematogenic local effects were also inhibited, the former by up to 56% and the latter by 100%, in animals treated with extract by oral and intraperitoneal routes, respectively. The inhibition of myotoxic action of B. jararaca reached almost 100%. According to enzymatic tests performed, it is possible to suggest that the antiophidic activity may be due an inhibitory action upon snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs) and/or serine proteinases (SVSPs), including fibrinogenolytic enzymes, clotting factors activators and thrombin like enzymes (SVTLEs), as well upon catalytically inactive phospholipases A2 (Lys49 PLA2). Anti-inflammatory activity, at least partially, could also be related to the inhibition of local effects. Additionally, protein precipitating and antioxidant activities may also be important features contributing to the activity presented. In conclusion, the results demonstrate the potential antiophidic activity of J. gossypiifolia extract, including its significant action upon local effects, suggesting that it may be used as a new source of bioactive molecules against bothropic venom.

Evaluation of antiviral activity of South American plant extracts against herpes simplex virus type 1 and rabies virus.

This paper describes the screening of different South American plant extracts and fractions. Aqueous and organic extracts were prepared and tested for antiherpetic (HSV-1, KOS and 29R strains) and antirabies (PV strain) activities. The evaluation of the potential antiviral activity of these extracts was performed by using an MTT assay for HSV-1, and by a viral cytopathic effect (CPE) inhibitory method for rabies virus (RV). The results were expressed as 50% cytotoxicity (CC(50)) for MTT assay and 50% effective (EC(50)) concentrations for CPE, and with them it was possible to calculate the selectivity indices (SI = CC(50)/EC(50)) of each tested material. From the 18 extracts/fractions tested, six extracts and four fractions showed antiviral action. Ilex paraguariensis, Lafoensia pacari, Passiflora edulis, Rubus imperialis and Slonea guianensis showed values of SI > 7 against HSV-1 KOS and 29-R strains and Alamanda schottii showed a SI of 5.6 against RV, PV strain.