In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant activities of Myrciaria plinioides D. Legrand ethanol leaf extract.

Myrciaria plinioides D. Legrand (Myrtaceae) is a native plant of Southern Brazil, which have potential in the food industry due to its edible fruits. Many plants belonging to this genus have been used for a variety of illnesses, including inflammatory disorders due to antioxidant properties. However, therapeutic uses of M. plinioides have been poorly studied. The aim of study was to assess the anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant activities of the ethanol leaf extract of M. plinioides. In M. plinioides extract-treated RAW 264.7 cells, assessments of cell viability, TNF-α release and p38 MAPK pathway-dependent protein expression were detected. In addition, rat paw edema models were used to analyze the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract. Macrophages cell line treated with M. plinioides extract showed a slight decrease in cell viability. In LPS-stimulated macrophages treated with different concentrations of the extract for 24 h, TNF-α release was inhibited, while modulation of p38 signaling pathway and inhibition of NF-κB p65 protein expression were dose-dependent. In rats, the extract inhibited the formation of paw edema, while an inhibitory effect on trypsin-like enzymes derived from mast cells was seen. Furthermore, the extract presented anticoagulant activity via extrinsic pathway, being able to block specifically factor Xa and thrombin. The study suggests that extract possess potent anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant effects. M. plinioides present great biological potential as a source for the development of anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant drugs. Additional studies can be proposed to better elucidate the mechanism by which M. plinioides exerts its effects.

Sulfated polysaccharide from the green marine algae Caulerpa racemosa reduces experimental pain in the rat temporomandibular joint.

Temporomandibular disorder is a clinical painful condition in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) region. The purified sulfated polysaccharide from the green marine algae Caulerpa racemosa (Cr) has provided anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity. This study evaluated these effects on a TMJ hypernociception model. Wistar rats (180 - 250 g) were pre-treated (i.v.) with Cr at 0.01, 0.1, or 1 mg/kg or vehicle 30 min before formalin (1.5%/50 µL, i.art.), capsaicin (1.5%/20 µL, i.art.), or serotonin (225 µg/50 µL, i.art.) in the TMJ, and nociceptive behaviors were measured for 45 or 30 min upon inflammatory stimuli. Inflammatory parameters vascular permeability assay, TNF-α, and IL-1ß by ELISA, protein expression of adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and CD55 by Western blot were assessed. The involvement of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and nitric oxide (NO) pathways were assessed by pharmacological inhibition. Cr (1 mg/kg) reduced nociceptive behavior, plasmatic extravasation, TNF-α, and IL-1ß levels, as well as ICAM-1 and CD55 expression in periarticular tissues. Cr antinociceptive effect was not prevented by aminoguanidine, but ZnPP-IX did reduce its antinociceptive effect. Therefore, Cr antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects in this experimental model of hypernociception depended on the HO-1 pathway integrity, as well as reducing peripheral inflammatory events, e.g., TNF-α and IL-1ß cytokines levels, ICAM-1 and CD55 expression.

Molecular characteristics of polysulfated fractions from the green seaweed Caulerpa cupressoides and actions on thrombin generation in vitro

Caulerpa cupressoides produces sulfated polysaccharides (Cc-SPs) with serpin-dependent anticoagulant effect, but their actions on thrombin generation (TG) are unknown. This study aimed to partially characterize Cc-SPs and examine their potential as modulators of TG. Infrared analysis characterized extract containing three ulvan fractions (Cc-SP1, -SP2 and -SP3) separated by DEAEcellulose chromatography, with differences in the relative proportions of sulfate (10.99-18.38%) and total sugars (46.59-51.12%), without presenting proteins. Charge density patterns and nonSPs varying from 8 to > 100 kDa on agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis by sequential staining with toluidine blue and stains-all were also confirmed by gel permeation chromatography. The molecular weight of Cc-SP2 was not altered after treatment with 0.4 M HCl up to 5 h. Only Cc-SP2 altered the activated partial thromboplastin time (15 ± 0.3 IU) vs. heparin (193 IU) and abolished at high concentrations (> 4.1 μg) TG by intrinsic pathway in 60-fold diluted human plasma, while at 4.1 μg attenuated TG by 33.87% delaying the lag phase (32 min.) vs. control (28 min.). Cc-SP2 induced concentration-dependent TG in system without cephalin. Heparin abolished TG at 4.15-fold lower amount, but did not stimulate TG. Therefore, Cc-SPs express dual effects on thrombosis in vitro.

A lectin fraction from green seaweed Caulerpa cupressoides inhibits inflammatory nociception in the temporomandibular joint of rats dependent from peripheral mechanisms.

Temporomandibular disorders are the second most common cause of orofacial pain mediated by inflammatory compounds, which in many cases leads to chronic orofacial pain. This study assessed the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of a lectin from the green seaweed Caulerpa cupressoides (CcL) on hypernociception inflammatory in TMJ of rats and investigated the involvement of different mechanisms. Rats received i.v. CcL 30 min prior to injection of flogistic agentes or 0.9% saline into the left TMJ. Pretreatment with CcL (0. 1; 1 or 10 mg/kg) promoted a reduction (p < 0.05) of inflammatory hypernociception induced by 1.5% Formalin along with inhibition of inflammatory plasma extravasation, cytokines levels, ciclooxigenase-2, and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1). CcL was able to inhibit the nociceptive response induced by 1.5% Capsaicin, suggesting that CcL has an antinociceptive effect, acting directly on the primary nociceptive neurons. CcL also inhibited the nociceptive response induced by Carrageenan (100 µg/TMJ) or Serotonin (5-HT) (225 µg/TMJ). In conclusion, the results demonstrate that administration of CcL has a potential antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect, with a mechanism that is partially dependent on TNF-α, IL-1ß, COX-2 and ICAM-1 inhibition and independently from the cannabinoide and opioid system and NO/cGMP/PKG/K+ATP channel pathway.

In vitro activities of kappa-carrageenan isolated from red marine alga Hypnea musciformis: Antimicrobial, anticancer and neuroprotective potential.

This study assessed the antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer and neuroprotective activities of the kappa(k)-carrageenan isolated from the red alga Hypnea musciformis (Hm-SP). The chemical spectrum of the k-carrageenan from Hm-SP was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Hm-SP revealed an antibacterial and antifungal action against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, respectively. Hm-SP did not promoted cytotoxic effects against Human breast cancer (MCF-7) and Human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell-lines. However, it was observed a significant reduction of the cellular proliferation capacity in these cancer cells in presence of the Hm-SP. Furthermore, Hm-SP showed neuroprotective activity in 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neurotoxicity on SH-SY5Y cells by modulation of the mitochondria transmembrane potential and reducing Caspase 3 activity. In addition, Hm-SP demonstrates low antioxidant potential and did not induce significant cytotoxic effects or changes in the cell proliferation on Balb/c 3T3 mouse fibroblast cell-line. In summary, our data suggest that Hm-SP shows antimicrobial, anticancer and neuprotective activities.

Gastroprotective Effects of Sulphated Polysaccharides from the Alga Caulerpa mexicana Reducing Ethanol-Induced Gastric Damage.

The development of the gastric lesion is complex and the result of the imbalance between aggressive and protective factors, involving the generation of free radicals and disturbance in nitric oxide (NO) production. Sulphated polysaccharides (SP), from marine algae, are widely used in biotechnological and pharmaceutical areas. In this study, we evaluated the effects of SP from the green marine alga Caulerpa mexicana (Cm-SP) in ethanol-induced gastric damage models in mice. Cm-SP (2, 20, or 200 mg/kg), administered p.o., significantly reduced gastric damage, and these effects were inhibited through pretreatment with indomethacin. Cm-SP (200 mg/kg) prevented the ethanol-induced decline in glutathione and restored its normal level. Moreover, it was able to normalize the elevated thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels. However, Cm-SP did not show any significant effects on NO2/NO3 level, when compared to the ethanol group. The pretreatment with L- NAME induced gastric mucosal damage and did not inhibit the gastroprotective effect of Cm-SP (200 mg/kg). In conclusion, the gastroprotective effects of Cm-SP in mice involve prostaglandins and reduction in the oxidative stress and are independent of NO.

Involvement of the dopaminergic system in the antidepressant-like effect of the lectin isolated from the red marine alga Solieria filiformis in mice.

This study aimed at evaluating the antidepressant-like action of the marine alga Solieria filiformis lectin (SfL) and to investigate the participation of the monoaminergic system in this action. For this, male Swiss mice (n=10) were pretreated with intravenous injections (i.v.) of SfL (1, 3 or 9mg/kg) and submitted to open field (OFT), tail suspension (TST), forced swimming (FST), elevated plus-maze (EPMT) and hole-board tests (HBT). As controls, mice received sterile saline (i.v.), imipramine (10 or 30mg/kg; intraperitoneally - i.p.) or diazepam (1 mk/kg; i.p.). To assess the involvement of the monoaminergic system in SfL effects, the FST was conducted in mice pretreated with PCPA, an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis, or noradrenergic and dopaminergic receptors specific antagonists. The results showed that SfL has an antidepressant-like effect, with no psychostimulant and anxiolytic-like effects. When denatured or combined with mannan, SfL lost the ability to reduce the immobility time in the FST. In addition, SfL antidepressant-like effect was inhibited by the pretreatment of mice with SCH 23390, a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist, and by sulpiride, a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. Thus, SfL produced an antidepressant-like effect, which is probably dependent on its interaction with the dopaminergic system.

Extraction, physical-chemical characterization and in vitro inhibitorypotential of thrombin generation of crude sulfated polysaccharides from Brazilian tropical seaweeds / Extração, caracterização físico-química e potencial inibitório in vitro da geração detrombina de polissacarídeos sulfatados brutos de algas marinhas tropicais brasileiras

The biotechnological value of macroalgae for screening assays of thrombin generation-TG using sulfated polysaccharides-SPs as substitutes to heparin has been poorly explored. Five Brazilian species of macroalgae (Gracilaria birdiae, Acanthophora muscoides, Halymenia sp., Caulerpa cupressoides and C. racemosa) wereanalyzed and compared for their abundance, physical-chemical characteristics and in vitro anticoagulant assays of activated partial thromboplastin time-APTT, prothrombin time-PT and TG. Papain extraction yielded (p 100 kDa. These procedures,combined with the use of Stains-All, also indicated nonSPs. APTTs ranged from 2.81 (A. muscoides) to 21.30 IU(Halymenia sp.) vs. heparin (193 IU), and were dependent on sulfation of the crude SPs. PT was not altered. Withrespect to TG assay, crude SPs modified concentration-dependent and independently from molecular mass TGby both intrinsic/extrinsic pathways in 60-fold diluted human plasma, with total intrinsic inactivation using crudeSPs from A. muscoides in parallel to heparin (p < 0.05). Thrombosis in vitro is differentially modulated by distinctcrude SPs from Brazilian seaweeds.

O valor biotecnológico das macroalgas para ensaios de varredura de geração de trombina-GT pouco tem sido explorado usando polissacarídeos sulfatados-PSs como substitutos à heparina. Foramanalisadas e comparadas cinco espécies brasileiras de macroalgas (Gracilaria birdiae, Acanthophora muscoides, Halymenia sp., Caulerpa cupressoides e C. racemosa) quanto à abundância, às característicasfísico-químicas e os ensaios anticoagulantes in vitro de tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada-TTPA, aotempo de protrombina-TP e a GT. A extração com papaína rendeu (p 100 kDa. Esses procedimentos,combinados ao uso de azul de toluidina/Stains-All, indicaram também polissacarídeos-não sulfatados. OsTTPAs foram dependentes da sulfatação dos PSs brutos e variaram de 2,81 (A. muscoides) a 21,30 UI (Halymenia sp.) vs. heparina (193 UI). O TP não foi alterado. Com respeito ao ensaio de GT, os PSs brutos modificaram, dependente de concentração e independentemente de massa molecular, GT pelas viasintrínseca/extrínseca no plasma humano diluído 60 vezes, com inativação intrínseca total usando PSs brutosde A. muscoides em paralelo à heparina (p < 0,05). A trombose in vitro é modulada diferencialmente porPSs brutos distintos de algas marinhas brasileiras.

Structural and physical-chemical analyses of sulfated polysaccharidesfrom the sea lettuce Ulva lactuca and their effects on thrombin generation / Análises estrutural e físico-química de polissacarídeos sulfatados da alface do mar Ulva lactuca e seus efeitos sobre geração de trombina

Ulva lactuca (Chlorophyceae) has biotechnologically-important sulfated-polysaccharides (Ul-SPs), but their potentials on thrombin generation (TG) are unknown. This study analyzed the structural and physicalchemical features of the Ul-SPs as modulators of TG. Proteolytic digestion yielded (13.13%) extract containing sulfate (20.43%) and total sugars (65.72%), besides ulvan consisting of rhamnose, xylose, glucose, glucuronic acid and α-/β-types glycosidic linkages as characterized by one-/two-dimensions nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments. Fractionation of the Ul-SPs by DEAE-cellulose chromatography yielded Ul-SP1 and Ul-SP2 (0.50 and 0.75 M NaCl, respectively) showing sulfation (15.72-18.04%) and total sugars (59.73-60.58%) consistent with the charge density pattern by combination of agarose/polyacrylamide gel eletrophoresis using sequential staining with toluidine blue and stains-all, although with slight differences in their sizes (40 and >100 kDa, respectively). By both activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) tests, anticoagulation of the fractions was virtually detected by APTT (0.39 and 0.43 IU, respectively) against heparin (193 IU). Fractions acted differently on both intrinsic/extrinsic pathways in TG using 60-fold diluted human plasma, with 50% efficacies up to 8.3 μg, whereas at high concentrations suggested intrinsic hypercoagulability since heparin abolished both systems at low amounts. Ul-SPs block TG, but predicting thrombosis in increasing doses.

Clorofícea Ulva lactuca possui polissacarídeos sulfatados (Ul-PSs) importantes biotecnologicamente, porém são desconhecidos seus potenciais sobre geração de trombina (GT). Analisaram-se as características estruturais e físico-químicas dos Ul-PSs como moduladores de GT. Digestão proteolítica rendeu (13,13%) extrato contendo sulfato (20,43%) e açúcares totais (65,72%), além de ulvana, como caracterizada por experimentos de ressonância magnética nuclear uni-/bi-dimensionais, consistindo de ramnose, xilose, glucose, ácido glucurônico e ligações glicosídicas tipos-α/-β. Fracionamento dos Ul-PSs por cromatografia de DEAE-celulose rendeu Ul-PS1 e Ul-PS2 (0,50 e 0,75 M de NaCl, respectivamente) mostrando sulfatação (15,72-18,04%) e açúcares totais (59,73- 60,58%) consistentes com o grau de densidade de carga por combinação de eletroforese em gel de agarose/poliacrilamida usando coramento sequencial com azul de toluidina e "stains-all", embora com diferenças quanto aos seus tamanhos (40 e >100 kDa, respectivamente). Por ambos os testes do tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada (TTPA) e do tempo de protrombina, anticoagulação das frações foi detectada virtualmente pelo TTPA (0,39 e 0,43 UI, respectivamente) frente heparina (193 UI). Frações atuaram diferentemente sobre ambas as vias intrínsica/extrínsica na GT usando plasma humano diluído 60 vezes, com eficácias de 50% até 8,3 μg, enquanto em concentrações maiores sugeriram hipercoagulabilidade intrínsica visto que heparina aboliu ambos os sistemas em quantidades baixas. Ul-PSs bloqueiam GT, porém prevendo trombose em doses crescentes.

Optimized acid hydrolysis of the polysaccharides from the seaweed Solieria filiformis (Kützing) P.W. Gabrielson for bioethanol production / Hidrólise ácida otimizada dos polissacarídeos da macroalga Solieria filiformis (Kützing) P.W. Gabrielson para produção de bioetanol

The seaweeds are bio-resource rich in sulfated and neutral polysaccharides. The tropical seaweed species used in this study (Solieria filiformis), after dried, shows 65.8% (w/w) carbohydrate, 9.6% (w/w) protein, 1.7% (w/w) lipid, 7.0% (w/w) moisture and 15.9% (w/w) ash. The dried seaweed was easily hydrolyzed under mild conditions (0.5 M sulfuric acid, 20 min.), generating fermentable monosaccharides with a maximum hydrolysis efficiency of 63.21%. Galactose and glucose present in the hydrolyzed were simultaneously fermented by Saccharomyces cerevisiae when the yeast was acclimated to galactose and cultivated in broth containing only galactose. The kinetic parameters of the fermentation of the seaweed hydrolyzed were Y(P/S) = 0.48 ± 0.02 g.g−1, PP = 0.27 ± 0.04 g.L−1.h−1, η = 94.1%, representing a 41% increase in bioethanol productivity. Therefore, S. filiformis was a promising renewable resource of polysaccharides easily hydrolyzed, generating a broth rich in fermentable monosaccharides for ethanol production.

As algas marinhas são recursos naturais ricos em polissacarídeos sulfatados e neutros. A espécie de macroalga tropical utilizada neste estudo (Solieria filiformis) apresentou teores de carboidratos de 65,8% (m/m), proteínas de 9,6% (m/m), lipídios de 1,7% (m/m), umidade de 7,0% (m/m) e 15,9 % (m/m) de cinzas. A macroalga seca foi facilmente hidrolisada em condições brandas, na presença de ácido sulfúrico 0,5 M, por 20 min, produzindo monossacarídeos fermentáveis com uma eficiência de hidrólise máxima de 63,21%. A galactose e a glicose presentes no hidrolisado foram fermentadas simultaneamente por Saccharomyces cerevisiae, após aclimatação da levedura cultivada em meio contendo apenas galactose como fonte de carbono. Os parâmetros cinéticos da fermentação do hidrolisado algáceo pela levedura aclimatada a galactose foram Y(P/S) = 0,48 ± 0,02 g.g-1, PP = 0,27 ± 0,04 g.L- 1.h-1, η = 94,1%. Portanto, a macroalga S. filiformis se mostrou um recurso renovável promissor como fonte de polissacarídeos facilmente hidrolisados, gerando um meio nutritivo rico em glucose e galactose para a produção de etanol.

In vitro inactivation of thrombin generation by polysulfated fractions isolated from the tropical coenocytic green seaweed Caulerpa racemosa (Caulerpaceae, Bryopsidales) / Inativação in vitro da geração de trombina por frações polissulfatadas isoladas da macroalga verde cenocítica tropical Caulerpa racemosa (Caulerpaceae; Bryopsidales)

Pharmacological efficacy of Caulerpa racemosa (Chlorophyta) sulfated polysaccharidic (SPs) fractions (F I→III) on models of coagulation and inflammation has been demonstrated, but not their effects on thrombin generation (TG). This study examined fractions for composition and physical-chemical characteristics and in vitro inactivation of TG by F I and F II in 60-fold diluted human plasma using continuous method. Papain-extraction yield of 0.7% revealed F I→III by DEAE-cellulose chromatography, with differences among the relative proportions of sulfate (17.37-24.00%), total sugars (30.03-48.34%) and absence of proteins. Charge density patterns and molecular sizes > 100 kDa of the fractions were verified by both agarose/polyacrylamide analyses, respectively. These electrophoreses combined with toluidine blue/Stains-All also indicated nonSPs. Anticoagulant effects of 4.76 (F I), 12.00 (F II) and 2.32 (F II) IU mg-1 by activated partial thromboplastin time test were recorded against heparin (193 IU mg-1), without changes in prothrombin time. Diluted plasma treated with F I and F II reduced concentration-dependent and sulfation pattern TG by both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, with 50% inactivation by intrinsic pathway of F II even at 4.1 µg. Heparin abolished TG at least 4-fold lower. Therefore, C. racemosa produces SPs with TG inhibition.

Eficácia farmacológica de frações (F I→III) polissacarídicas sulfatadas (PSs) da Chlorophyta Caulerpa racemosa sobre modelos de coagulação e inflamação tem sido demonstrada, exceto seus efeitos sobre geração de trombina (GT). Examinaram-se frações quanto à composição, características físico-químicas e inativação in vitro de GT por F I e F II, em plasma humano diluído 60 vezes usando método contínuo. Rendimento de extração-papaína (0,7%) revelou, por cromatografia de DEAE -celulose, F I→III com diferenças entre as proporções relativas de sulfato (17,37-24,00%), açúcares totais (30,03-48,34%) e ausência de proteínas. Foram verificados, por ambas as análises agarose/poliacrilamida, graus de densidade de carga e tamanhos moleculares > 100 kDa das frações, respectivamente. Também essas eletroforeses, combinadas com azul de toluidina/Stains-All, indicaram polissacarídeos não sulfatados. Foram registrados, pelo teste do tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada, efeitos anticoagulantes de 4,76 (F I), 12,00 (F II) e 2,32 (F II) UI mg-1 contra heparina (193 UI mg- 1), porém não modificando tempo de protrombina. Plasma diluído tratado com F I e F II reduziu GT por ambas as vias intrinsíca/extrínsica, dependente de concentração e grau de sulfatação, com F II em 4,1 µg apresentando eficácia de 50% pela via intrínsica. Heparina, quatro vezes menos, aboliu GT. Portanto, C. racemosa produz PSs com inibição de GT.

An anti-dengue and anti-herpetic polysulfated fraction isolated from the coenocytic green seaweed Caulerpa cupressoides inhibits thrombin generation in vitro / Uma fração polissulfatada anti- dengue e anti- herpética isolada da alga marinha verde cenocítica Caulerpa cupressoides inibe geração de trombina in vitro

The antiviral potency of Caulerpa cupressoides (Chlorophyta) sulfated polysaccharidic fractions (Cc -SP1→3) associated with thrombin generation (TG) assay is unknown. This study analyzed the structure of Cc-SP1 and its effects against herpes viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2), dengue-virus (DENV-1) , human-metapneumovirus (HMPV) and adenovirus (AdV) in Vero and mosquito C6/36 cell-lines and as inhibitor of TG in 60- fold diluted human plasma using continuous system. Infrared analysis indicated ulvan containing 11% sulfate, 40.16% total sugars and 6% uronic acid. Procedures of agarose/polyacrylamide gels electrophoresis revealed two major components presenting sulfate and non SPs, with molecular dispersion ranging from 8 to > 100 kDa, respectively, as confirmed by gel permeation chromatography. Cc-SP1 did not cause cytotoxicity up to 1000 µg mL-1 and was more effective inhibitor of DENV-1 (96%, 0.35 µg mL-1) compared with HSV-1 (90%, 27 µg mL- 1) and HSV-2 (99.9%, 0.9 µg mL-1) in Vero cell-line, whose selectivity indexes were > 714, > 9.2 and > 131, respectively, but was inactive against HMPV, AdV and C6/36 cell-line using plate reduction assay. Cc-SP1 required concentration 20.8-fold higher of SPs than heparin for abolishes intrinsically TG, but at concentrations so far the anti-HSV-1. Therefore, TG assay provides data to guide studies of Cc-SP1 on anticoagulant/antiviral effects.

A potência antiviral de frações polissacarídicas sulfatadas de Caulerpa cupressoides (Chlorophyta) (Cc-PS1→3) é desconhecida e associada com ensaio de geração de trombina (GT). Analisaram-se de Cc-PS1 estrutura e efeitos contra herpesviroses (HSV-1 e HSV-2), vírus da dengue (DENV-1), metapneumovírus-humano (MPVH) e adenovírus (AdV) em linhagens de células Vero e de mosquito C6/36 e como inibidora de GT em plasma humano diluído 60 vezes usando sistema contínuo. Análise de infravermelho indicou 'ulvana' contendo sulfato (11%), açúcares totais (40,16%) e ácido urônico (6%). Procedimentos de electroforese em géis de agarose/poliacrilamida revelaram dois componentes majoritários apresentando sulfato e polissacarídeos não sulfatados, com dispersão molecular variando de 8 a > 100kDa, respectivamente, confirmada por cromatografia de permeação em gel. Cc-PS1 não causou citotoxicidade até 1000 µg mL-1 e se mostrou, em linhagem de célula Vero usando ensaio de redução de placas, inibidora efetiva de DENV-1 (96%; 0,35 µg mL-1) comparada com HSV-1 (90%; 27 µg mL-1) e HSV-2 (99,9%; 0,9 µg mL-1), cujos índices de seletividade foram > 714; > 9,2 e > 278, respectivamente, enquanto, demonstrou-se ineficaz sobre HMPV, AdV e linhagem de célula C6/36. Foi requerida concentração 20,8 vezes maior de Cc-PS1 que heparina para abolir GT intrinsicamente, mas em concentrações diferentes da anti-HSV-1. Portanto, ensaio de GT fornece dados para estudos direcionados sobre efeitos anticoagulante/antiviral de Cc-PS1.

Role of central opioid on the antinociceptive effect of sulfated polysaccharide from the red seaweed Solieria filiformis in induced temporomandibular joint pain.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of sulfated polysaccharide from red seaweed Solieria filiformis (Fraction F II) in the inflammatory hypernociception in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of rats. Male Wistar rats were pretreated (30min) with a subcutaneous injection (s.c.) of vehicle or FII (0.03, 0.3 or 3.0mg/kg) followed by intra-TMJ injection of 1.5% Formalin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, 225µg/TMJ). In other set of experiments rats were pretreated (15min) with an intrathecal injection of the non-selective opioid receptors Naloxone, or µ-opioid receptor antagonist CTOP, or δ-opioid receptor Naltridole hydrochloride, or κ-opioid receptor antagonist Nor-Binaltorphimine (Nor-BNI) followed by injection of FII (s.c.). After 30min, the animals were treated with an intra-TMJ injection of 1.5% formalin. After TMJ treatment, behavioral nociception response was evaluated for a 45-min observation period, animals were terminally anesthetized and periarticular tissue, trigeminal ganglion and subnucleus caudalis (SC) were collected plasma extravasation and ELISA analysis. Pretreatment with F II significantly reduced formalin- and serotonin-induced TMJ nociception, inhibit the plasma extravasation and inflammatory cytokines release induced by 1.5% formalin in the TMJ. Pretreatment with intrathecal injection of Naloxone, CTOP, Naltridole or Nor-BNI blocked the antinociceptive effect of F II in the 1.5% formalin-induced TMJ nociception. In addition, F II was able to significantly increase the ß-endorphin release in the subnucleus caudalis. The results suggest that F II has a potential antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect in the TMJ mediated by activation of opioid receptors in the subnucleus caudalis and inhibition of the release of inflammatory mediators in the periarticular tissue.

Mechanisms involved in antinociception induced by a polysulfated fraction from seaweed Gracilaria cornea in the temporomandibular joint of rats.

Temporomandibular disorder is a common clinical condition involving pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) region. This study assessed the antinociceptive effects of a polysulfated fraction from the red seaweed Gracilaria cornea (Gc-FI) on the formalin-induced TMJ hypernociception in rats and investigated the involvement of different mechanisms. Male Wistar rats were pretreated with injection (sc) of saline or Gc-FI 1h before intra- TMJ injection of formalin to evaluate the nociception. The results showed that pretreatment with Gc-FI significantly reduced formalin-induced nociceptive behavior. Moreover, the antinociceptive effect of the Gc-FI was blocked by naloxone (a non-selective opioid antagonist), suggesting the involvement of opioids selective receptors. Thus, the pretreatment with selective opioids receptors antagonists, reversed the antinociceptive effect of the Gc-FI in the TMJ. The Gc-FI antinociceptive effect depends on the nitric oxide/cyclic GMP/protein kinase G/ATP-sensitive potassium channel (NO/cGMP/PKG/K+ATP) pathway because it was prevented by pretreatment with inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase, guanylate cyclase enzyme, PKG and a K+ATP blocker. In addition, after inhibition with a specific heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) inhibitor, the antinociceptive effect of the Gc-FI was not observed. Collectively, these data suggest that the antinociceptive effect induced by Gc-FI is mediated by µ/δ/κ-opioid receptors and by activation NO/cGMP/PKG/K+ATP channel pathway, besides of HO-1.

Neuroprotective Effects of Sulphated Agaran from Marine Alga Gracilaria cornea in Rat 6-Hydroxydopamine Parkinson's Disease Model: Behavioural, Neurochemical and Transcriptional Alterations.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a multifactorial disease associated with the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and behavioural alterations. Natural bioactive compounds may provide new therapeutic alternatives for neurodegenerative disorders, such as PD. The sulphated polysaccharides isolated from marine algae are heterogenic molecules that show different biological activities. The red marine alga Gracilaria cornea has a sulphated polysaccharide (SA-Gc) with structure and anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities reported in the literature. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of SA-Gc in rat model PD induced by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Firstly, we established the PD model in rats, induced by an intrastriatal injection (int.) of 6-OHDA, followed by a single administration of SA-Gc (15, 30 or 60 µg; int.). On the 14th day, behavioural tests were performed. After killing, brain areas were dissected and used for neurochemical and/or transcriptional analyses. The results showed that SA-Gc (60 µg, int.) promoted neuroprotective effects in vivo through reducing the oxidative/nitroactive stress and through alterations in the monoamine contents induced by 6-OHDA. Furthermore, SA-Gc modulated the transcription of neuroprotective and inflammatory genes, as well as returning behavioural activities and weight gain to normal conditions. Thus, this study reports the neuroprotective effects of SA-Gc against 6-OHDA in rats.

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions on bradykinin route of a polysulfated fraction from alga Ulva lactuca.

We investigated structural features of polysaccharides from Ulva lactuca and their effects on the classical models of nociception and inflammation. Crude extract was obtained by enzymatic digestion and isolated by ion exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. The fraction with higher yield was used in the tests (SP-Ul). Swiss mice received SP-Ul (1, 3 or 9mg/kg; i.v.), 30min prior to injection of 0.8%-acetic acid or 1%-formalin or prior to a thermal stimulus. At same doses, SP-Ul was tested on Wistar rats on paw edema elicited by different irritants (carrageenan, dextran, bradykinin, histamine or serotonin). The results of infrared characterization indicated the presence of hydroxyl groups, sulfate, uronic acid and glycosidic linkages in all SP fractions spectrums. SP-Ul decreased significantly the antinociception in response to acetic acid or formalin (second phase), but not in the hot-plate test, suggesting that its analgesia occurs through a peripheral mechanism. SP-Ul did not reduce carrageenan-induced paw edema as supported by both histological and myeloperoxidase activity assessments. However, SP-Ul (1mg/kg; s.c.) reduced dextran-elicited edema, showing vascular anti-inflammatory effect, with bradykinin as major target because it did not reduce histamine- and serotonin-induced paw edemas. Therefore, SP-Ul acts on bradykinin pathway in its antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory responses.

Anti-inflammatory and Anti-resorptive Effects of Atorvastatin on Alveolar Bone Loss in Wistar Rats

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-resorptive effect of atorvastatin (ATV) in an experimental alveolar bone loss (ABL) model. Wistar rats were subjected to ligature placement around the maxillary second molar for 11 days. The animals received 0.9% saline (2 mL/kg) or ATV (0.3, 3 or 27 mg/kg) daily by gavage. ABL was evaluated by resorption area and histopathological analysis. Serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP) activity was also evaluated. Leukogram was performed at 0 h, 6th h, 2nd, 7th and 11th days. Kidney and liver conditions and the body mass variation were analyzed. ATV (3 and 27 mg/kg) inhibited ABL by 39% and 56%, respectively. Histopathological analysis showed that ATV 27 mg/kg prevented ABL and cemental resorption, and inflammatory cell infiltration induced by ligature. ATV (27 mg/kg) prevented serum BALP levels reduction. ATV (27 mg/kg) prevented leukocytosis and did not affect either kidney or liver function nor body mass weight. ATV showed a protecting effect in the ligature-induced periodontitis, without affecting system parameters, by inhibition of inflammatory process and by its anabolic activity on the alveolar bone.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito anti-inflamatório e anti-reabsortivo da atorvastatina (ATV) no modelo de perda óssea alveolar experimental (POA). Para isto, ratos Wistar foram submetidos a inserção de ligadura ao redor do segundo molar maxilar durante 11 dias. Os animais receberam diariamente, por gavagem, soro fisiológico a 0,9% (2 mg/kg) ou ATV (0,3, 3 ou 27 mg/kg). A POA foi avaliada pela área de reabsorção e análise histológica. Dosagens séricas da atividade de fosfatase alcalina óssea foram avaliadas. Leucograma foi realizado a 0 h, na 6a h, 2o, 7o e 11o dias. Foram analisadas condições de rim, fígado e variação de massa corpórea. As ATV (3 e 27 mg/kg) inibiram POA em 39% e 56%, respectivamente. A análise histopatológica mostrou que a ATV 27 mg/kg preveniu POA e reabsorção de cemento, e o infiltrado celular inflamatório induzido por ligadura. ATV (27 mg/kg) preveniu a redução dos níveis séricos de fosfatase alcalina óssea. ATV (27 mg/kg) preveniu leucocitose e não afetou função renal e hepática ou o peso corporal. ATV mostrou um efeito protetor na periodontite induzida por ligadura, sem afetar os parâmetros sistêmicos, através da inibição do processo inflamatório e pela atividade anabólica no osso alveolar.

Anti-inflammatory and Anti-resorptive Effects of Atorvastatin on Alveolar Bone Loss in Wistar Rats.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-resorptive effect of atorvastatin (ATV) in an experimental alveolar bone loss (ABL) model. Wistar rats were subjected to ligature placement around the maxillary second molar for 11 days. The animals received 0.9% saline (2 mL/kg) or ATV (0.3, 3 or 27 mg/kg) daily by gavage. ABL was evaluated by resorption area and histopathological analysis. Serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP) activity was also evaluated. Leukogram was performed at 0 h, 6th h, 2nd, 7th and 11th days. Kidney and liver conditions and the body mass variation were analyzed. ATV (3 and 27 mg/kg) inhibited ABL by 39% and 56%, respectively. Histopathological analysis showed that ATV 27 mg/kg prevented ABL and cemental resorption, and inflammatory cell infiltration induced by ligature. ATV (27 mg/kg) prevented serum BALP levels reduction. ATV (27 mg/kg) prevented leukocytosis and did not affect either kidney or liver function nor body mass weight. ATV showed a protecting effect in the ligature-induced periodontitis, without affecting system parameters, by inhibition of inflammatory process and by its anabolic activity on the alveolar bone.

Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Activities of the Lectin from Marine Red Alga Solieria filiformis.

Lectins are proteins that bind to specific mono- or oligosaccharides. This study aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the lectin from the red marine alga Solieria filiformis. The animals (n = 6) were pretreated with S. filiformis lectin 30 min before they were given the nociceptive or inflammatory stimulus. The antinociceptive activity was evaluated in Swiss mice using the abdominal writhing, formalin, and hot plate tests. The anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated in Wistar rats using carrageenan-induced peritonitis and paw edema induced by different phlogistic agents. The S. filiformis lectin toxicity was assayed through its application in mice (7 days). S. filiformis lectin significantly reduced the number of abdominal writhings and reduced the paw licking time in the second phase of the formalin test (p < 0.05), but it did not prolong the reaction time in the hot plate test (p > 0.05). Furthermore, S. filiformis lectin reduced neutrophil migration in a peritonitis model and reduced paw edema induced by carrageenan, dextran, and serotonin (p < 0.05). Additionally, the administration of S. filiformis lectin resulted in no signs of systemic damage. Thus, S. filiformis lectin appears to have important antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities and could represent a potential therapeutic agent for future studies.

Mild-acid hydrolysis of a native polysulfated fraction from Acanthophora muscoides generates sulfated oligosaccharides displaying in vitro thrombin generation inhibition / Hidrólise ácida branda de uma fração polissulfatada de Acanthophora muscoides gera oligossacarídeos sulfatados mostrando inibição de geração de trombina in vitro

A. muscoides (Rhodophyta) has three polysulfated fractions (-1, -2 and Am-3). Am-2 displayed anti -inflammation and serpin-independent anticoagulation effects; however, no effect of oligomers on thrombin-generation (TG) has been demonstrated. This study employed mild-acid hydrolysis to obtain low-molecular-size derivatives from Am-2 and compared in vitro inhibitory effects between intact Am-2 and its hydrolysates on a TG assay. The polysaccharidic extract was fractionated by DEAE-cellulose that revealed Am-2 eluted with 0.75-M NaCl containing sulfate (23%), hexoses (51%) and absence of proteins, and indicating, by one-dimension nuclear magnetic resonance, structure of galactan similar to that of the extract. The depolymerization with HCl (0.02 or 0.04-M, 60°C) for different times progressively reduced the charge density and the molecular-size of Am-2 based on electrophoresis in agarose and polyacrylamide gels, respectively, where at higher acid concentration and critical time up to 5h yielded fragment of Ì´14-kDa similar to that of unfractionated heparin (UHEP). Regarding the TG assay, intact Am-2 inhibited concentration- dependent intrinsic pathway, whereas its hydrolysates abolished it like UHEP, except the analog fragment (92.87% inhibition), when in 60-fold diluted human plasma using chromogenic method in a continuous system. The results reveal an alternative approach for the production of oligosaccharides from A. muscoides with TG inhibition.

A rodofícea A. muscoides possui três frações polissulfatadas (-1, -2 e Am-3). Am-2 mostrou efeito anti-inflamação e anticoagulação independente de serpina. Entretanto, não se demonstrou efeito de oligômeros sobre ensaio de geração de trombina (GT) . Este estudo empregou hidrólise ácida branda para obter derivados de tamanho molecular baixo de Am -2 e os efeitos inibitórios in vitro entre Am-2 intacta e hidrolisados comparados sobre um ensaio de GT. O extrato polissacarídico, fracionado por DEAE-celulose, revelou Am-2 eluída com NaCl-0,75M contendo sulfato (23%), hexoses (51%) e destituída de proteínas. E, ainda, por ressonância magnética nuclear-unidimensional, indicando galactana semelhante a do extrato. A depolimerização com HCl (0,02 ou 0,04-M; 60°C) reduziu, progressivamente durante tempos diferentes, a densidade de carga e o tamanho molecular de Am-2 baseada nas eletroforeses em géis de agarose e de poliacrilamida, respectivamente, em que, concentração ácida elevada e tempo crítico de até 5h renderam fragmento de Ì´14-kDa semelhante ao da heparina não fracionada (HEPNF). Já no ensaio de GT, Am-2 intacta, quando em plasma humano diluído 60 vezes, usando método cromogênico por meio de sistema contínuo, quem inibiu a via intrínseca dependente de concentração, ao passo que seus hidrolisados aboliram como HEPNF, exceto fragmento análogo (inibição 92,87%). Os resultados revelam uma abordagem alternativa para produzir oligossacarídeos de A. muscoides com inibição de GT.