Development of chitosan, gelatin and liposome film and analysis of its biocompatibility in vitro.

A film of chitosan, gelatin and liposome has been designed for dermatological applications. Several adaptations were required throughout development to facilitate in vitro analysis, physicochemical characterization and biocompatibility evaluation. The final version of the film was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, evaluation of swelling and scanning electron microscopy. The biocompatibility of the film was assessed by investigating cellular parameters of three types of human cells by direct contact or through films extracts: I) primary culture of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ADCSs) and melanoma cell lines were used to test cell adhesion and morphology by direct cell culture on the material; II) ADSCs and immortalized keratinocytes were used in cell viability assay using different films extracts. The film showed physicochemical characteristics that favored cellular input, being suitable for in vitro analysis, which allowed its biocompatible characteristics such as the absence of toxicity to be verified without causing significant morphological changes in ADSCs and melanoma cell line. Altogether, these results suggest that the material has a potential application for drug delivery and promotion of skin tissue repair and is therefore worthwhile for further investigations using preclinical models to cover dermal lesions.

Short-term carcinogenesis evaluation of Casearia sylvestris

Abstract Casearia sylvestris Sw., Salicaceae, is an important medicinal plant widely used in Brazil for the treatment of various cardiovascular disorders. This species was included as of interest by Brazilian Unified Health System. Although preclinical studies described cardiovascular protective effects and apparent absence of toxicity, no studies have evaluated its carcinogenic potential. In this study, we proposed a short-term carcinogenesis evaluation of C. sylvestris in Wistar rats, aiming to check the safety of this species to use it as proposed by Brazilian Unified Health System. C. sylvestris leaves were obtained and the crude extract was prepared by maceration from methanol/water. Wistar rats were orally treated for 12 weeks with 50, 250 or 500 mg kg−1 of crude extract or vehicle. Body weight, daily morbidity and mortality were monitored. Blood and bone marrow samples were collect for micronucleus test, comet assay and tumor markers evaluation. Vital organs were removed to macro and histopathological analyses. The crude extract did not induce mutagenic and genotoxic effects and no alterations were observed in important tumor markers. Finally, no detectable signs of injury through gross pathology or histopathological examinations were observed. Our results certify the absence of the crude extract toxicity, indicating its safety, even at prolonged exposure as proposed by Brazilian Unified Health System.