Genomic decoding of Theobroma grandiflorum (cupuassu) at chromosomal scale: evolutionary insights for horticultural innovation.

BACKGROUND: Theobroma grandiflorum (Malvaceae), known as cupuassu, is a tree indigenous to the Amazon basin, valued for its large fruits and seed pulp, contributing notably to the Amazonian bioeconomy. The seed pulp is utilized in desserts and beverages, and its seed butter is used in cosmetics. Here, we present the sequenced telomere-to-telomere genome of cupuassu, disclosing its genomic structure, evolutionary features, and phylogenetic relationships within the Malvaceae family. FINDINGS: The cupuassu genome spans 423 Mb, encodes 31,381 genes distributed in 10 chromosomes, and exhibits approximately 65% gene synteny with the Theobroma cacao genome, reflecting a conserved evolutionary history, albeit punctuated with unique genomic variations. The main changes are pronounced by bursts of long-terminal repeat retrotransposons at postspecies divergence, retrocopied and singleton genes, and gene families displaying distinctive patterns of expansion and contraction. Furthermore, positively selected genes are evident, particularly among retained and dispersed tandem and proximal duplicated genes associated with general fruit and seed traits and defense mechanisms, supporting the hypothesis of potential episodes of subfunctionalization and neofunctionalization following duplication, as well as impact from distinct domestication process. These genomic variations may underpin the differences observed in fruit and seed morphology, ripening, and disease resistance between cupuassu and the other Malvaceae species. CONCLUSIONS: The cupuassu genome offers a foundational resource for both breeding improvement and conservation biology, yielding insights into the evolution and diversity within the genus Theobroma.

Unraveling the genetic diversity of Ceiba pubiflora (Malvaceae) in isolated limestone outcrops: Conservation strategies.

Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests (SDTFs) located on limestone outcrops are vulnerable to degradation caused by timber logging and limestone extraction for cement production. Some of these forests represent the last remnants of native vegetation cover, functioning as isolated islands. Ceiba pubiflora (Malvaceae) is a tree frequently found on limestone outcrops in the central region of Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity and identify suitable populations for the establishment of Management Units (MUs) for conservation. Inter-simple sequence repeat markers were employed to assess the genetic diversity in ten populations sampled from the Caatinga, Cerrado, and Atlantic Forest biomes. The species exhibited substantial genetic diversity (HT = 0.345; PLP = 97.89%). Populations SAH, JAN, and MON demonstrated elevated rates of polymorphic loci (> 84.2%) along with notable genetic diversity (He > 0.325). Additionally, these populations were the primary contributors to gene flow. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that most genetic variation occurs within populations (91.5%) than between them. In the Bayesian analysis, the ten populations were clustered into five groups, revealing the presence of at least three barriers to gene flow in the landscape: 1) the Central Plateau or Paranã River valley; 2) near the Espinhaço mountains or the São Francisco River valley; and 3) around the Mantiqueira mountain range, Chapada dos Veadeiros plateau, and disturbed areas. A positive and statistically significant correlation was observed between genetic (θB) and geographic distances (r = 0.425, p = 0.008). Based on these findings, we propose the establishment of Management Units in Minas Gerais state, encompassing the (1) southern region (MIN population), (2) central region (SAH population), and (3) north region (MON population), as well as in Goiás state, covering the (4) Central Plateau region. These units can significantly contribute to preserving the genetic diversity of these trees and protecting their habitat against ongoing threats.

DNA Barcodes of Mansonia (Mansonia) Blanchard, 1901 (Diptera, Culicidae).

Females of the genus Mansonia feed on the blood of humans, livestock, and other vertebrates to develop their eggs. The females' biting behavior may cause severe disturbance to blood hosts, with a negative impact on public health and economics. Certain species have been identified as potential or effective disease vectors. The accurate species identification of field-collected specimens is of paramount importance for the success of monitoring and control strategies. Mansonia (Mansonia) morphological species boundaries are blurred by patterns of intraspecific heteromorphism and interspecific isomorphism. DNA barcodes can help to solve taxonomic controversies, especially if combined with other molecular tools. We used cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene 5' end (DNA barcode) sequences to identify 327 field-collected specimens of Mansonia (Mansonia) spp. The sampling encompassed males and females collected from three Brazilian regions and previously assigned to species based on their morphological characteristics. Eleven GenBank and BOLD sequences were added to the DNA barcode analyses. Initial morphospecies assignments were mostly corroborated by the results of five clustering methods based on Kimura two-parameter distance and maximum likelihood phylogeny. Five to eight molecular operational taxonomic units may represent taxonomically unknown species. The first DNA barcode records for Mansonia fonsecai, Mansonia iguassuensis, and Mansonia pseudotitillans are presented.

Cupuassu juice fermentation by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp62 produces an antioxidant enriched probiotic beverage.

The present work aimed to produce a cupuassu juice (Theobroma grandiflorum) fermented by the probiotic bacterium Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp62 and to analyze its antioxidant potential, antimicrobial activity, and resistance to biological barriers. The fermented beverage showed an increase in the content of phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant potential. The culture showed antagonistic activity against pathogens, but this result was not observed when the juice was tested. The probiotic strain remained viable under refrigeration, even in an acidified environment, and survived simulated gastrointestinal transit in vitro. L. plantarum Lp62 showed 30% adherence to HT-29 intestinal cells and proved to be safe in terms of antibiotic resistance and production of virulence factors. Fermentation increased the functional characteristics of cupuassu juice. This drink proved to be a good vehicle for the delivery of the probiotic bacteria L. plantarum Lp62.

Pachira aquatica (Malvaceae): An unconventional food plant with food, technological, and nutritional potential to be explored.

Pachira aquatica (Malvaceae) is an unconventional food plant (UFP) native to Mexico and found all over Brazil, where it is commonly known as monguba. It has an arboreal shape, exotic flowers, and a fruit similar to cocoa with several seeds. Although its main application is in urban ornamentation and folk medicine, monguba's fruit has a great potential for use in the food, pharmacology, cosmetic, and bioenergy industry, mainly due to its oil's characteristics. This review aims to compile the nutritional composition, bioactive and antioxidant activities, and technological and nutritional potential of monguba's seed, leaf, and fruit pericarp. It reviews studies of different databases between January 2018 and October 2021. Monguba seeds are rich in lipids, proteins, and minerals; the bark is rich in fiber; and all parts of the fruit have bioactive compounds. Discussing the use of UFP is a way of finding new alternative food sources, usually discarded, offering products with high nutritional value allied to technological and consumption potential, such as the monguba fruit.

Analysis of the toxicological and pharmacokinetic profile of Kaempferol-3-O-β-D-(6"-E-p-coumaryl) glucopyranoside - Tiliroside: in silico, in vitro and ex vivo assay / Análise do perfil toxicológico e farmacocinético de Kaempferol-3-O-β D-(6"-E-p-cumaril) glucopiranosídeo - Tilirosídeo: ensaio in silico, in vitro e ex vivo

Tiliroside is a glycosidic flavonoid present in many plants species including Helicteres velutina K. Schum (Malvaceae sensu lato), commonly known in Brazil as "pitó". This molecule has been shown to have many biological activities, however no study has been carried out to investigate the toxicity of this substance. The present work aimed to evaluate the possible cellular toxicity in silico, in vitro and ex-vivo of the kaempferol-3-O-β-D-(6”-E-p-coumaroyl) glucopyranoside (tiliroside), through chemical structure analysis, toxicity assessment and predictive bioactive properties, using human samples for in vitro and ex-vivo tests. The in silico analysis suggests that tiliroside exhibited great absorption index when penetrating biological membranes. In addition, it also displayed considerable potential for cellular protection against free radicals, and anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hemorrhagic and antithrombotic activities. The assessment of the hemolytic and genotoxic effects of tiliroside showed low hemolysis rates in red blood cells and absence of cellular toxicity in the oral mucosa cells. The data obtained indicate that this molecule could be a promising therapeutic approach as a possible new drug with biotechnological potential.(AU)

O tilirosídeo é um flavonóide glicosídico presente em muitas espécies de plantas, incluindo Helicteres velutina K. Schum (Malvaceae sensu lato), conhecida no Brasil como “pitó”. Esta molécula mostrou ter muitas atividades biológicas, porém nenhum estudo foi realizado para investigar a toxicidade dessa substância. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a possível toxicidade celular in silico, in vitro e ex-vivo do kaempferol-3-O-β-D- (6 ”-Ep-coumaroil) glucopiranosídeo (tilirosídeo), por meio de análises de estrutura química, toxicidade avaliação e propriedades bioativas preditivas, utilizando amostras humanas para testes in vitro e ex-vivo. A análise in silico sugere que o tilirosídeo exibe bom índice de absorção para penetrar nas membranas biológicas. Além disso, apresentou considerável potencial de proteção celular contra os radicais livres e com atividades anticarcinogênica, antioxidante, antineoplásica, antiinflamatória, anti-hemorrágica e antitrombótica. A avaliação dos efeitos hemolíticos e genotóxicos do tilirosídeo mostrou baixas taxas de hemólise nas hemácias e ausência de toxicidade em células da mucosa oral. Os dados obtidos indicam que esta molécula pode possuir uma abordagem terapêutica promissora como uma possível nova droga com potencial biotecnológico.(AU)

Analysis of the toxicological and pharmacokinetic profile of Kaempferol-3-O-β-D-(6"-E-p-coumaryl) glucopyranoside - Tiliroside: in silico, in vitro and ex vivo assay / Análise do perfil toxicológico e farmacocinético de Kaempferol-3-O-β D-(6"-E-p-cumaril) glucopiranosídeo - Tilirosídeo: ensaio in silico, in vitro e ex vivo

Tiliroside is a glycosidic flavonoid present in many plants species including Helicteres velutina K. Schum (Malvaceae sensu lato), commonly known in Brazil as "pitó". This molecule has been shown to have many biological activities, however no study has been carried out to investigate the toxicity of this substance. The present work aimed to evaluate the possible cellular toxicity in silico, in vitro and ex-vivo of the kaempferol-3-O-β-D-(6”-E-p-coumaroyl) glucopyranoside (tiliroside), through chemical structure analysis, toxicity assessment and predictive bioactive properties, using human samples for in vitro and ex-vivo tests. The in silico analysis suggests that tiliroside exhibited great absorption index when penetrating biological membranes. In addition, it also displayed considerable potential for cellular protection against free radicals, and anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hemorrhagic and antithrombotic activities. The assessment of the hemolytic and genotoxic effects of tiliroside showed low hemolysis rates in red blood cells and absence of cellular toxicity in the oral mucosa cells. The data obtained indicate that this molecule could be a promising therapeutic approach as a possible new drug with biotechnological potential.

O tilirosídeo é um flavonóide glicosídico presente em muitas espécies de plantas, incluindo Helicteres velutina K. Schum (Malvaceae sensu lato), conhecida no Brasil como “pitó”. Esta molécula mostrou ter muitas atividades biológicas, porém nenhum estudo foi realizado para investigar a toxicidade dessa substância. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a possível toxicidade celular in silico, in vitro e ex-vivo do kaempferol-3-O-β-D- (6 ”-Ep-coumaroil) glucopiranosídeo (tilirosídeo), por meio de análises de estrutura química, toxicidade avaliação e propriedades bioativas preditivas, utilizando amostras humanas para testes in vitro e ex-vivo. A análise in silico sugere que o tilirosídeo exibe bom índice de absorção para penetrar nas membranas biológicas. Além disso, apresentou considerável potencial de proteção celular contra os radicais livres e com atividades anticarcinogênica, antioxidante, antineoplásica, antiinflamatória, anti-hemorrágica e antitrombótica. A avaliação dos efeitos hemolíticos e genotóxicos do tilirosídeo mostrou baixas taxas de hemólise nas hemácias e ausência de toxicidade em células da mucosa oral. Os dados obtidos indicam que esta molécula pode possuir uma abordagem terapêutica promissora como uma possível nova droga com potencial biotecnológico.

Structure and ultrastructure of the stigma and style of Luehea divaricata (Malvaceae-Grewioideae).

MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Transmitting tissue cells of Luehea divaricata present a thick middle lamella and prominent convex lens-shaped thickenings of the cell wall that act as reservoir of energy for pollen tube growth. Luehea Milld. is a Neotropical genus with 18 species. This paper reports the study of the structure and the ultrastructure of the stigma and the style of Luehea divaricata Milld. using bright-field microscope and transmission electron microscope. Multiseriate papillae are observed in the stigma. The papillae cells are large with a content that stains intensively and the sub-stigmatic tissue resembles the style's transmitting tissue. L. divaricata has a closed style with an epidermis that presents raised stomata and multicellular trichomes. Numerous organelles and a large nucleus are present in the dense cytoplasm of the transmitting tissue cells. A relevant feature is that the cells of this tissue in the species studied present a very thick middle lamella with two zones of different electron density in the angle of contact between cells, and convex lens-shaped thickenings of the cell wall are prominent mainly also in these angles of contact. The growth of the pollen tube is initiated on the stigmatic papillae surface and continues growing in the middle lamella of the sub-stigmatic tissue and the transmitting tissue, mainly at the contact angle between cells. The present work is the first contribution to the knowledge of structure and ultrastructure of the stigma and style in the genus Luehea, as well as to the subfamily Grewioideae (Malvaceae).

Evidence for the Involvement of Cytokines Modulation and Prokinetic Properties in Gastric Ulcer Healing Effects of Helicteres sacarolha A. St.-Hil. A. Juss.

Preparations of Helicteres sacarolha (Malvaceae) leaves and roots are used in the form of decoction, infusion or maceration, to treat gastrointestinal disturbances, among others. Studies supporting some of its ethnomedicinal uses are still incipient. The present study aimed to investigate it potential effect on chronic ulcer, ulcerative colitis and possible prokinetic activities as part of its mechanism of action. The powdered leaves of Helicteres sacarolha (HEHs) was prepared by maceration in 70 % hydroethanolic solution. Its qualitative phytochemical constituents were investigated by direct flow injection analysis coupled to atmospheric pressure chemical ionization ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (FIA-APCI-IT-MSn ). The gastric ulcer healing effect was evaluated in acetic acid induced chronic ulcer in mice and the lesions were evaluated, including analysis of blood plasma cytokine levels. The prokinetic properties (gastric emptying and intestinal transit) were carried out in mice. Potential anti-ulcerative colitis activity was evaluated in rats using 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (5 % TNBS) -induced colitis. All animal experiments were carried out at the doses of 20, 50 and 250 mg/kg (p.o.). Eight compounds were putatively identified, specifically lariciresinol, and its derivatives, kaempferol derivatives and Tricin-O-Glc. The extract promoted increased gastric ulcer healing at all doses tested. Modulation of the cytokines involved inhibition of some key pro-inflammatory cytokines with maximum effect on IL-1ß (70 %, 50 mg/kg, p<0.05), TNF-α (79 %, 20 mg/kg, p<0.01), and in the anti-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-10 (57 %, 50 mg/kg, p<0.05) and IL-17 (79 %, only at 50 mg/kg, p<0.05). Histological findings demonstrated a mitigated inflammatory activity, and tissues undergoing regeneration. HEHs treatment caused delayed gastric emptying, and increased intestinal transit, but had no effect in the experimentally induced ulcerative colitis. We report for the first time putatively the presence of Lariciresinol and tricin derivatives from the hydroethanolic leaves extract of H. sacarolha. Its possible mechanism of actions of gastric ulcer healing involves cytokines modulation, mitigation of inflammatory response and tissue regeneration and provoked opposing effect in the gastrointestinal system. The present study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of H. sacarolha leaves used in Brazilian ethnomedicine in the treatment of chronic gastric ulcer.

Mansonia spp. population genetics based on mitochondrion whole-genome sequencing alongside the Madeira River near Porto Velho, Rondonia, Brazil.

In high abundance, females of the genus Mansonia (Blanchard) can be a nuisance to humans and animals because they are voraciously hematophagous and feed on the blood of a myriad of vertebrates. The spatial-temporal distribution pattern of Mansonia species is associated with the presence of their host plants, usually Eichhornia crassipes, E. azurea, Ceratopteris pteridoides, Limnobium laevigatum, Pistia stratiotes, and Salvinia sp. Despite their importance, there is a lack of investigation on the dispersion and population genetics of Mansonia species. Such studies are pivotal to evaluating the genetic structuring, which ultimately reflects populational expansion-retraction patterns and dispersal dynamics of the mosquito, particularly in areas with a history of recent introduction and establishment. The knowledge obtained could lead to better understanding of how anthropogenic changes to the environment can modulate the population structure of Mansonia species, which in turn impacts mosquito population density, disturbance to humans and domestic animals, and putative vector-borne disease transmission patterns. In this study, we present an Illumina NGS sequencing protocol to obtain whole-mitogenome sequences of Mansonia spp. to assess the microgeographic genetic diversity and dispersion of field-collected adults. The specimens were collected in rural environments in the vicinities of the Santo Antônio Energia (SAE) hydroelectric reservoir on the Madeira River.

Discovery and genome sequencing of a new virus related to members of the family Tymoviridae, isolated from mosquitoes of the genus Mansonia in Brazil.

A new virus, named Mutum virus, related to members of the family Tymoviridae, was isolated from mosquitoes (Mansonia spp.) in clone C6/36 cells, and its complete genome was sequenced. Its genome is 6494 nt in size with an organization resembling that of tymovirids. The isolated virus is phylogenetically related to two viruses isolated from Culex spp. mosquitoes: Ek Balam virus, reported in Mexico, and Culex-originated Tymoviridae-like virus, isolated in China. The results of this study suggest that this virus is a new member of the family Tymoviridae.

DNA barcoding suggests new species for the Mansonia subgenus (Mansonia, Mansoniini, Culicidae, Diptera) in the area surrounding the Jirau hydroelectric dam, Porto Velho municipality, Rondônia state, Brazil.

Previous studies have linked the construction of hydroelectric dams with increases in the density of mosquitoes, especially Mansonia. In Brazil, Mansonia mosquitoes are still poorly studied at the taxonomic, biological, ecological and epidemiological levels, and nothing is known about the genetic diversity and the cryptic speciation of the group. The current study analyzed the molecular taxonomy of Mansonia species captured in the area surrounding the Jirau hydroelectric dam, Rondônia state, Brazil. Samples were collected from fifteen locations between 2018 and 2019. Genomic DNA of the specimens was extracted, and the DNA barcode region of the Cytochrome Oxidase, subunit I gene was amplified with PCR and both DNA strands were sequenced. The dataset was analyzed using MEGA, Mr. Bayes and DnaSP software. The results provided COI sequences for 100 specimens collected in the area surrounding from Jirau hydroelectric dam. These belonged to five species of the Mansonia subgenus, identified morphologically as Mansonia humeralis, Mansonia amazonensis, Mansonia titillans, Mansonia dyari and Mansonia indubitans. Findings showed that the COI gene is an effective and accessible DNA barcode that provides a high-resolution tool for delimiting species within the subgenus Mansonia, with the tree construction (Bayesian Inference) well supported and non-overlapping intraspecific and interspecific (K2-P) genetic distance values. These findings also indicate the occurrence of cryptic speciation within M. dyari and near of M. titillans. This is the first study to apply molecular tools to the taxonomy of Mansonia species from Brazil.

Lysosomal storage disease induced by Sida planicaulis (Sin. Sida carpinifolia) (Malvaceae) in sheep in the state of Rio de Janeiro / Doença do armazenamento lisossomal induzida por Sida planicaulis (Sin. Sida carpinifolia) (Malvaceae) em ovinos no estado do Rio de Janeiro

Ingestion of S. planicaulis (Sin. S. carpinifolia) causes lysosomal storage disease in sheep. The main toxic compound of this plant, swainsonine, inhibits the enzymatic activity of α-mannosidase I and II, resulting in lysosomal storage of glycoproteins. We describe a case of spontaneous poisoning by S. planucaulis in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. Physical examination of affected animals revealed proprioceptive deficit, motor incoordination, staggering movement, and head tremors. Histopathological evaluation showed severe swelling/cytoplasmic vacuolization in Purkinje neurons, with a foamy appearance and occasional karyolysis or karyopyknosis, and intense vacuolization of acinar cells of the pancreas and, less markedly, thyroid follicular cells. The positive lectin-histochemistry labeling for Con A, WGA and sWGA lectins characterized the disease as a glycoproteinosis. The ultrastructural evaluation revealed numerous vacuoles up to 2.5µm in diameter bounded by membranes up to 20nm thick in pancreatic acinar cells. The diagnosis of S. planicaulis toxicity was established based on epidemiological data, clinicopathological, lectino-histochemical, and ultrastructural findings. This is the second report of spontaneous poisoning of sheep by S. planicaulis in Brazil, but the first in the Southeastern Brazil.

A ingestão de S. planicaulis (Sin. S. carpinifolia) tem sido responsabilizada por doença do armazenamento lisossomal em ovinos. O principal composto tóxico dessa planta, a swainsonina, inibe atividade enzimática da α-manosidase I e II, que redunda no armazenamento de glicoproteínas no interior de lisossomos. Descreveu-se um caso de intoxicação espontânea por S. planicaulis no estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. O exame físico dos animais afetados revelou déficit proprioceptivo, incoordenação motora, cambaleio à movimentação e tremores de intenção e na cabeça. A avaliação histopatológica evidenciou severa tumefação/vacuolização citoplasmática em neurônios de Purkinje, com aspecto espumoso e eventual cariólise ou cariopicnose e intensa vacuolização de células acinares do pâncreas e, menos marcadamente, foliculares da tireoide. O exame lectino-histoquímico positivo para as lectinas Con A, WGA e sWGA foi capaz de caracterizar a enfermidade como uma glicoproteinose. A avaliação ultraestrutural revelou numerosos vacúolos de até 2,5µm de diâmetro, delimitados por membranas de até 20nm de espessura em células acinares do pâncreas. O diagnóstico da intoxicação por S. planicaulis foi estabelecido com base nos dados epidemiológicos, nos achados clínico-patológicos e confirmado pelas avaliações lectino-histoquímica e ultraestrutural. Esta é segunda descrição da intoxicação natural por S. planicaulis em ovinos no Brasil e a primeira na região Sudeste do país.

Differences in the metabolic and functional mechanisms used to tolerate flooding in Guazuma ulmifolia (Lam.) from flood-prone Amazonian and dry Cerrado savanna populations.

Flood tolerance is crucial to the survival of tree species subject to long periods of flooding, such as those present in the Amazonian várzea. Tolerance can be mediated by adjustments of metabolism, physiology and morphology, reinforcing the need to investigate the physiological and biochemical mechanisms used by tropical tree species to survive this stress. Moreover, such mechanisms may vary between populations that are subjected to differences in the frequency of flooding events. Here, we aimed to identify the mechanisms used by two populations of the tropical tree Guazuma ulmifolia (Lam.) to tolerate flooding: an Amazonian population frequently exposed to flooding and a Cerrado population, adapted to a dry environment. Young plants were subjected to a flooding of the roots and lower stem for 32 days, followed by 17 days of recovery. Amazonian plants exhibited greater increases in shoot length and higher maximum photosynthetic rate (Amax) compared with non-flooded plants from 7 days of flooding onwards, whereas increased Amax occurred later in flooded Cerrado plants and was not accompanied by increased shoot length. Lactate accumulated in roots of Cerrado plants after 24 h flooding, together with transcripts coding for lactate dehydrogenase in roots of both Cerrado and Amazonian plants. After 7 days of flooding, lactate decreased and alcohol dehydrogenase activity increased transiently, together with concentrations of alanine, γ-aminobutyric acid and succinate, indicating activation of metabolic processes associated with low oxygen availability. Other amino acids also increased in flooded Cerrado plants, revealing more extensive metabolic changes than in Amazonian plants. Wetland and dryland populations of G. ulmifolia revealed the great capacity to tolerate flooding stress through a suite of alterations in photosynthetic gas exchange and metabolism. However, the integrated physiological, biochemical and molecular analyses realized here indicated that wetland plants acclimatized more efficiently with increased shoot elongation and more rapid restoration of normal metabolism.

Avaliação da citotoxicidade in vitro e genotoxicidade ex-vivo em compostos da Pavonia glazioviana Gürke (Malvaceae / Evaluation of in vitro cytotoxicity and ex-vivo genotoxicity in compounds from Pavonia glazioviana Gürke(Malvaceae)

Introdução: as terapias alternativas que utilizam plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos são bastante comuns no Brasil. Dentre várias espécies vegetais brasileiras utilizadas em terapias destacam-se as espécies da família Malvaceae. Objetivos: o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a citotoxicidade in vitro e a genotoxicidade ex-vivo em compostos da Pavonia glazioviana Gürke espécie brasileira pertencente à família Malvaceae. Metodologia: métodos in vitro foram utilizados para verificar o potencial citotóxico por meio de ensaios hemolíticos e anti-hemolíticos e da análise genotóxica ex-vivo. O Extrato Etanólico Bruto (EEB) e Fração Clorofórmico (FC) foram obtidos na amostra vegetal utilizada neste estudo. Resultados: os produtos EEB-Pg e FC-Pg apresentaram baixo efeito citotóxico apenas nas concentrações de 50 e 100 µg / mL. As amostras expostas às concentrações de 500 e 1000 µg / mL apresentaram índice hemolítico alto a moderado com lise superior a 60%. Foi descrito efeito anti-hemolítico moderado em todas as amostras tratadas com 500 e 1000 µg / mL, com hemólise < 60%. Além disso, os compostos mostraram baixo efeito genotóxico ex-vivo, com um índice geral de células normais superior a 84% em todas as concentrações. Conclusões: os resultados sugerem um baixo perfil tóxico dos compostos obtidos da espécie Pavonia glazioviana, indicando limites seguros para o uso desses produtos naturais.

Introduction: alternative therapies using medicinal plants and herbal medicines are quite common in Brazil. Among several Brazilian plant species used in therapies, the species of the Malvaceae family stand out. Objetctives: the present study aimed to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity and ex-vivo genotoxicity in compounds of the Brazilian Pavonia glazioviana Gürke belonging to the Malvaceae family. Methodology: in vitro methods were used to verify the cytotoxic potential through hemolytic and antihemolytic assays and the ex-vivo genotoxic analysis. The Crude Etanolic Extract (CEE) and Cloroformic Fraction (CF) was obtained in vegetal sample used on this study. Results: the CEE-Pg and CF-Pg products only showed a low cytotoxic effect at the concentrations of 50 and 100 µg/mL. The exposure to the concentrations of 500 and 1000 µg/mL showed a high to moderate hemolytic index with lysis higher than 60%. A moderate anti-hemolytic effect was described in all samples treated with 500 and 1000 µg/mL, with hemolysis <60%. In addition, the compounds showed low ex-vivo genotoxic effect with a general index of normal cells greater than 84% at all concentrations. Conclusion: the results suggest a low toxic profile of the compounds obtained from the Pavonia glazioviana Gürke species belonging to the Malvaceae family, indicating safe limits for the use of these natural products.

Seasonality and Biting Behavior of Mansonia (Diptera, Culicidae) in Rural Settlements Near Porto Velho, State of Rondônia, Brazil.

Mansonia (Diptera: Culicidae) are known to cause discomfort to the local populations of Amazon. Considering the fact that the effective control of these mosquitoes can only be obtained by understanding their ecology and behavior, entomological monitoring becomes essential. In view of this, mosquitoes of the genus Mansonia were collected by human landing catches (HLC) from 2015 to 2019, in four locations of Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil. The collections were performed inside and outside the homes, once in every four months, uninterrupted for 24 hr. Human bite indices/hour was used to analyze the hourly activity of the species for different seasons and environment (indoor and outdoor). Moreover, nonparametric Mann-Whitney tests were conducted to indicate if there were differences between exophagic and endophagic behavior. The seasonality of Mansonia species was also analyzed. Overall, 96,766 specimens were collected over five years of sampling. Mansonia titillans (Walker) was found to be the most abundant species (76.9%). The highest percentage of mosquitoes was collected in February (48.4%), followed by October (39.6%) and June (12.0%). The biting activity of the two most abundant species showed peak host seeking activity/behavior during twilight and night, more perceptible in the outdoor environment (peridomiciliary). In general, seasonality showed a tendency towards a reduction in the abundance of Mansonia in the years after 2015. Our results will be essential in the formulation of effective control methodology for Mansonia in the studied area.

Seedling development of Melochia pyramidata in different substrates and pot sizes / Desenvolvimento de mudas de Melochia pyramidataem diferentes substratos e tamanho de vasos

Native plants such asMelochia pyramidatahave been targeted in various scientific studies due to their potential uses. From this perspective, the present study aimed to separately evaluate the effect of different substrates and pot sizeson the production of seedlings of M. pyramidatagenotypes propagated by cuttings. Theexperimentwas conducted in a plant nursery at the Center of Agricultural Sciences of theFederal University of Paraíba, Areia, PB, Brazil. Theexperimental design was completely randomizedandarranged in a 3 x 2factorialdesignwith three substrate types (sand, commercial substrate Plantmax®, andsand+ manure) and two genotypes(MP1 andMP2), withfive replications. Pot size evaluation used a 2 x 2factorial designwith two pot sizes(V1: 1.8 LandV2: 0.9 L), two genotypes(MP1 andMP2), andfour replications. The evaluations began seven days after the cuttings were planted in tubes and continued weekly for two months by evaluating the number of sprouts and leaves. After two months, these seedlings were transplanted to pots and evaluated for the number of sprouts, leaves, fruits, flower buds, leaf width, and leaf length. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and test of means(Tukey) at5% probability. The cuttings ofM. pyramidatadeveloped best in washed sand and in the commercial substratePlantmax®. The genotypes developed best in 1.8-L pots, showing more leaves, flower buds, and fruits.

As plantas nativas, como a Melochia pyramidata, têm sido alvos de vários estudos científicos devido suas potencialidades de usos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, separadamente, o efeito de substratos e tamanhos de vasos na produção de mudas de genótipos de M. pyramidata pelo método da estaquia. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação no Centro de Ciências Agrárias da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Areia, PB, Brasil. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3 x 2, com três tipos de substratos (areia, substrato comercial Plantmax® e areia + esterco) e 2 genótipos (MP1 e MP2.), com 5 repetições. Para a avaliação feita em diferentes tamanhos de vasos, utilizou-se o esquema fatorial 2 x 2, com 2 tamanhos de vasos (V1: 1,8 Litros e V2: 0,9 Litros) e 2 genótipos (MP1 eMP2), com 4 repetições. As avaliações iniciaram-se após sete dias do plantio das estacas nos tubetes, e continuaram, semanalmente, por dois meses, avaliando o número de brotações e o número de folhas. Após os dois meses, estas mudas foram transplantadas para vasos, onde avaliou número de brotações, número de folhas, número de frutos, número de botões florais, largura da folha e comprimento da folha. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e teste de médias (Tukey) a 5% de probabilidade. As estacasde M. pyramidata apresentaram melhor desenvolvimento em areia lavada e substrato comercial Plantmax®. Os genótipos se desenvolveram melhor em vasos de 1,8 litros, com maiores quantidades de folhas, botões florais e frutos.

Seedling development of Melochia pyramidata in different substrates and pot sizes / Desenvolvimento de mudas de Melochia pyramidataem diferentes substratos e tamanho de vasos

Native plants such asMelochia pyramidatahave been targeted in various scientific studies due to their potential uses. From this perspective, the present study aimed to separately evaluate the effect of different substrates and pot sizeson the production of seedlings of M. pyramidatagenotypes propagated by cuttings. Theexperimentwas conducted in a plant nursery at the Center of Agricultural Sciences of theFederal University of Paraíba, Areia, PB, Brazil. Theexperimental design was completely randomizedandarranged in a 3 x 2factorialdesignwith three substrate types (sand, commercial substrate Plantmax®, andsand+ manure) and two genotypes(MP1 andMP2), withfive replications. Pot size evaluation used a 2 x 2factorial designwith two pot sizes(V1: 1.8 LandV2: 0.9 L), two genotypes(MP1 andMP2), andfour replications. The evaluations began seven days after the cuttings were planted in tubes and continued weekly for two months by evaluating the number of sprouts and leaves. After two months, these seedlings were transplanted to pots and evaluated for the number of sprouts, leaves, fruits, flower buds, leaf width, and leaf length. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and test of means(Tukey) at5% probability. The cuttings ofM. pyramidatadeveloped best in washed sand and in the commercial substratePlantmax®. The genotypes developed best in 1.8-L pots, showing more leaves, flower buds, and fruits.(AU)

As plantas nativas, como a Melochia pyramidata, têm sido alvos de vários estudos científicos devido suas potencialidades de usos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, separadamente, o efeito de substratos e tamanhos de vasos na produção de mudas de genótipos de M. pyramidata pelo método da estaquia. O experimento foi conduzido em casa de vegetação no Centro de Ciências Agrárias da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Areia, PB, Brasil. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3 x 2, com três tipos de substratos (areia, substrato comercial Plantmax® e areia + esterco) e 2 genótipos (MP1 e MP2.), com 5 repetições. Para a avaliação feita em diferentes tamanhos de vasos, utilizou-se o esquema fatorial 2 x 2, com 2 tamanhos de vasos (V1: 1,8 Litros e V2: 0,9 Litros) e 2 genótipos (MP1 eMP2), com 4 repetições. As avaliações iniciaram-se após sete dias do plantio das estacas nos tubetes, e continuaram, semanalmente, por dois meses, avaliando o número de brotações e o número de folhas. Após os dois meses, estas mudas foram transplantadas para vasos, onde avaliou número de brotações, número de folhas, número de frutos, número de botões florais, largura da folha e comprimento da folha. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e teste de médias (Tukey) a 5% de probabilidade. As estacasde M. pyramidata apresentaram melhor desenvolvimento em areia lavada e substrato comercial Plantmax®. Os genótipos se desenvolveram melhor em vasos de 1,8 litros, com maiores quantidades de folhas, botões florais e frutos.(AU)

Aquatic Macrophytes Hosting Immature Mansonia (Mansonia) Blanchard, 1901 (Diptera, Culicidae) in Porto Velho, Rondonia State, Brazil.

High abundance of hematophagous mosquitoes of the genus Mansonia Blanchard, 1901 (Diptera: Culicidae) threatens human and domestic animal health and well-being. Knowledge of the biology of nuisance mosquito species is necessary to understand specific ecological and biological factors to enable rapid and effective monitoring measures for sustainable control programs. The establishment and dispersion of Mansonia species are associated with the occurrence of aquatic macrophytes species, which are indispensable for the development of larvae and pupae. To increase knowledge of the host plants for Mansonia immature stages in Porto Velho, Rondonia State, Brazil, specimens of four plant species, which occur across the tributaries of the Madeira River were sampled and inspected for the presence of egg batches, larvae, and pupae. A total of 1,386 larvae and pupae of Mansonia spp. were collected attached to the roots of Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms (Commelinales: Pontederiaceae), Pistia stratiotes L. (Alismatales: Araceae), and Limnobium laevigatum (Humb. and Bonpl. Ex Willd.) Heine (Alismatales: Hydrocharitaceae). The novel association of Mansonia species with L. laevigatum is presented. Egg batches of Mansonia spp. were found only on Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitch. (Salviniales: Salviniaceae). Possible differences in the roles played by E. crassipes and S. molesta in the reproductive cycle of Mansonia spp. in the surveyed area are discussed. All species of host plants including E. crassipes, P. stratiotes, S. molesta, and L. laevigatum should be considered when planning macrophyte management for the control of Mansonia species.

Determination of preclinical safety of oil obtained from Pachira aquatica Aublet (Malvaceae) seeds: histopathological, biochemical, hematological, and genetic toxicity studies in rats.

Pachira aquatica is a species used for medicinal and food purposes and has numerous phytochemicals that may have systemic toxic effects and damage to genetic material. This study aimed to evaluate acute and short-term oral toxicity, as well as genotoxic and clastogenic effects of oil extracted from P. aquatica (PASO) seeds in rats and Drosophila melanogaster. The results obtained with biochemical and hematological analyses did not show significant changes in any evaluated parameters when compared with reference values for the species used in the study. Data from the histopathological analysis corroborated results found in this study. These findings indicate low acute and short-term toxicity following oral PASO exposure in rats under the experimental conditions tested. Tests performed in rats showed that PASO did not present significant genotoxic or clastogenic effects on the cells analyzed with the three doses tested. Treatment with PASO in the offspring of HB crossing, which showed high cytochrome P450 levels, did not exhibit genotoxic activity, as demonstrated by the SMART test. These results suggest that products from the hepatic oil metabolism did not show genotoxicity under the conditions tested. Together, the results indicate that, under the experimental conditions tested, PASO is safe for repeated intake. As PASO exhibited low potential to cause harmful effects on living organisms, our study encourages further research aimed at assessing its pharmacological activity, since it is a widely consumed plant.