Toxicological, Antidiarrheal and Spasmolytic Activities of Solanum paniculatum.

Solanum paniculatum is popularly known as "jurubeba-verdadeira". In folk medicine, its roots, stems, and leaves are used as tonics, anti-inflammatories, carminatives, diuretics, and for gastrointestinal disorders. This species is listed in the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia and belongs to the "Relação Nacional de Plantas Medicinais de Interesse ao SUS". Based on folk medicine data of the Solanum genus, we decided to investigate whether the crude ethanol extract from S. paniculatum aerial parts presents toxicological, antidiarrheal, and spasmolytic activities. The crude ethanol extract from S. paniculatum aerial parts did not produce in vitro or in vivo toxicity and showed dose-dependent antidiarrheal activity, inhibiting equipotently both the defecation frequency (ED50 = 340.3 ± 35.1 mg/kg) and liquid stool formation (ED50 = 370.1 ± 19.4 mg/kg) in mice. Conversely, the crude ethanol extract from S. paniculatum aerial parts did not inhibit normal intestinal transit, even though it has shown a dose-dependent reduction of both the castor oil-induced intestinal transit (Emax = 36.9 ± 1.3 %, ED50 = 242.0 ± 8.6 mg/kg) and intestinal fluid content (Emax = 74.8 ± 2.4 %, ED50 = 328.9 ± 15.9 mg/kg). Additionally, the crude ethanol extract from S. paniculatum aerial parts was approximately 2-fold more potent in antagonizing the phasic contractions induced with histamine (IC50 = 63.7 ± 3.5 µg/mL) than carbachol 10(-6) M (IC50 = 129.3 ± 14.1 µg/mL). Therefore, we concluded that the crude ethanol extract from S. paniculatum aerial parts presents antidiarrheal activity in mice related to the inhibition of small intestinal motility and secretion as well as nonselective spasmolytic activity on the guinea pig ileum.

Safety assessment and behavioral effects of Solanum guaraniticum leaf extract in rats

ABSTRACT Solanum guaraniticum is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat gastric and liver diseases. However, there is no documented evidence corroborating its safety. The present study evaluated the potential toxicity of S. guaraniticum leaf extract after acute administration in rats. Single doses of the extract (1.250, 2.500, and 5.000 mg/kg) were administered by gavage, and the rats were then monitored for 48 h and/or 14 days. Mortality, acute signs of toxicity, and general activity in the open field test were assessed as well as hematological and biochemical parameters, enzymatic activity (δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase and acetylcholinesterase), and oxidative stress parameters (lipid peroxidation level, non-protein thiol content, tissue catalase activity, and serum ferrous reducing power). Phytochemical analysis was also performed by HPLC. The results showed that extract administration produced no deaths (LD50 > 5,000 mg/kg), and no significant adverse effects regarding food consumption, body weight gain, gross pathology, or other parameters. However, the open field tests showed a decrease in spontaneous activity (crossing and rearing) mainly at 48 h after treatment. The results suggest that S. guaraniticum extract is not acutely toxic, but causes alterations in central nervous system activity.

RESUMO Solanum guaraniticum é uma planta medicinal tradicionalmente usada para tratar doenças gástricas e hepáticas. Porém, não há evidências documentadas sobre sua segurança. O presente estudo avaliou a toxicidade do extrato das folhas de S. guaraniticum após administração aguda em ratos. Doses únicas do extrato (1.250, 2.500 and 5.000 mg/kg) foram administradas por gavagem e os animais foram monitorados por 48 h ou 14 dias. Mortalidade, sinais de toxicidade aguda e atividade geral, através do teste de campo aberto, foram analisados, assim como parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos, atividades enzimáticas (δ-aminolevulinato desidratase e acetilcolinesterase) e parâmetros de estresse oxidativo (nível de peroxidação lipídica, conteúdo de tióis não protéicos, atividade da catalase em tecidos e poder redutor em soro). A análise fitoquímica também foi realizada por HPLC. Os resultados mostraram que a administração do extrato não provoca mortes (LD50>5.000 mg/kg) ou efeitos adversos significativos com relação ao consumo de comida, ganho de peso corporal, análise patológica, entre outros. Entretanto, o teste de campo aberto mostrou uma diminuição na atividade espontânea geral (cruzamentos e levantadas), principalmente em 48 h após o tratamento. Portanto, nossos resultados sugerem que o extrato de S. guaraniticum não é agudamente tóxico, mas causa alterações na atividade do sistema nervoso central.

A novel pathogenic mechanism for cerebellar lesions produced by Solanum bonariense in cattle.

Intoxication with Solanum bonariense in cattle causes cerebellar cortical degeneration with perikaryal vacuolation, axonal swelling, and death primarily of Purkinje cells, with accumulation of electron-dense residual storage bodies in membrane-bound vesicles. The pathogenesis of this disease is not fully understood. Previously, we proposed that inhibition of protein synthesis in Purkinje cells among other altered metabolic pathways could lead to cytoskeletal alterations, subsequently altering cell-specific axonal transport. In the present study, immunohistochemical and histochemical methods were used to identify neuronal cytoskeletal alterations and axonal loss, demyelination, and astrogliosis in the cerebellum of intoxicated bovines. Samples of cerebellum from 3 natural and 4 experimental cases and 2 control bovines were studied. Immunoreactivity against neurofilament (NF)-200KDa confirmed marked loss of Purkinje neurons, and phospho-NF protein, ß-tubulin, and affinity reaction against phalloidin revealed an altered perikaryal distribution of neuronal cytoskeletal proteins in the remaining Purkinje cells in intoxicated cattle. Reactive astrogliosis in every layer of the cerebellar cortex was also observed with anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein immunohistochemistry. In affected cattle, demyelination and axonal loss in the cerebellar white matter, as well as basket cell loss were demonstrated with Klüver-Barrera and Bielschowsky stains, respectively. Based on these results, we propose that neuronal cytoskeletal alterations with subsequent interference of the axonal transport in Purkinje cells may play a relevant role in the pathogenesis of this neurodegenerative disorder, and also that demyelination and axonal loss in the cerebellar white matter, as well as astrogliosis in the gray matter, likely occur secondarily to Purkinje cell degeneration and death.

Spontaneous poisoning by Solanum subinerme Jack as a cause of cerebellar cortical degeneration in cattle.

The present work reports cerebellar degeneration in cattle associated with the ingestion of Solanum subinerme in northern Brazil. The main clinical signs were periodic crises with loss of balance, falls, opisthotonus, and nystagmus. The histological lesions consisted of diffuse vacuolation of the perikaryon of the Purkinje neurons, followed by the loss of these cells and their substitution by Bergman glia. It is concluded that S. subinerme is another species of Solanum that causes cerebellar degeneration in cattle.

Concurrent ivermectin and Solanum spp. toxicosis in a herd of horses.

BACKGROUND: Representatives from a herd of horses with acute onset of neurologic signs after administration of ivermectin presented for evaluation and treatment. OBJECTIVES: Describe clinical signs of horses intoxicated by ingestion of Solanum sp. and administered ivermectin. ANIMALS: Six of 11 affected unrelated horses presented for evaluation and treatment. The remaining 5 affected horses were treated at the farm. Four additional horses, housed separately, were unaffected. METHODS: Case series is presented. Serum ivermectin concentrations were evaluated in the 6 hospitalized horses. The remnants of the tubes of ivermectin paste were analyzed for ivermectin concentration. The hay fed to the affected horses was analyzed for the presence of toxic plants. RESULTS: Serum ivermectin concentrations were higher than expected, given the dosage of ivermectin administered. The ivermectin concentration remaining in the administration tubes did not exceed specifications. The hay was heavily contaminated by 2 Solanum species. All horses returned to normal neurologic function with supportive care. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Horses might exhibit signs of ivermectin toxicity after appropriate dosing of the drug if they concurrently consume toxic plants of the Solanum family.

Toxicidad aguda oral de Solanum torvum Sw (prendejera) / Acute oral toxicity of Solanum torvum Sw (prendejera)

Introducción: Solanum torvum Sw, conocida popularmente como prendejera, es una planta medicinal empleada por la población como antimicrobiano, antiartrítico, entre otras propiedades. Esta planta no reporta estudios de toxicidad de tipo agudo, solo aparecen reportados estudios de toxicidad a largo plazo. Objetivos: evaluar la toxicidad aguda oral por el método de las clases de la decocción de hojas y tallos Solanum torvum por vía oral en ratas Sprague Dawley. Métodos: se realizó un ensayo de toxicidad aguda oral por el método de las clases. La administración se hizo por vía oral a una dosis única de 2 000 mg/kg de peso corporal de una decocción de la planta S torvum. Se efectuaron los estudios correspondientes de anatomía patológica, que evidenciaran toxicidad de la sustancia ensayada. Resultados: la sustancia evaluada no produjo signos clínicos que demostraran toxicidad, ni muerte animal, no se reportaron alteraciones en el peso corporal de los biomodelos; macroscópicamente no se comprobaron alteraciones de valor diagnóstico. Conclusiones: la sustancia ensayada por vía oral, a dosis única, se enmarca como sin clasificar, en el modelo animal y nivel de dosis utilizado bajo las condiciones experimentales observadas(AU)

Introduction: Solanum torvum Sw, traditionally known as prendejera, is a medicinal plant used by the population as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent among other properties. No acute toxicity studies are reported on this plant, just long-term toxicity studies. Objectives: to evaluate the acute oral toxicity by the class method using decoction of Solanum torvum leaves and stems orally administered to Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: an acute oral toxicity test based on the class method was conducted. The S torvum plant decoction was administered in one dose of 2000 mg/kg of body weight. Pathological anatomy studies were performed to analyze the toxicity in the tested substance. Results: the evaluated substance did not show any clinical signs of toxicity or animal deaths; no alterations in the body weight of the experimental models were found. There were no alterations of diagnostic value according to the macroscopic analysis. Conclusions: the tested decoction, orally administered at one dose, is regarded as unclassified for the animal model and the dosage used under the observed experimental conditions(AU)

Toxicidad aguda oral de Solanum torvum Sw (prendejera) / Acute oral toxicity of Solanum torvum Sw (prendejera)

Introducción: Solanum torvum Sw, conocida popularmente como prendejera, es una planta medicinal empleada por la población como antimicrobiano, antiartrítico, entre otras propiedades. Esta planta no reporta estudios de toxicidad de tipo agudo, solo aparecen reportados estudios de toxicidad a largo plazo. Objetivos: evaluar la toxicidad aguda oral por el método de las clases de la decocción de hojas y tallos Solanum torvum por vía oral en ratas Sprague Dawley. Métodos: se realizó un ensayo de toxicidad aguda oral por el método de las clases. La administración se hizo por vía oral a una dosis única de 2 000 mg/kg de peso corporal de una decocción de la planta S torvum. Se efectuaron los estudios correspondientes de anatomía patológica, que evidenciaran toxicidad de la sustancia ensayada. Resultados: la sustancia evaluada no produjo signos clínicos que demostraran toxicidad, ni muerte animal, no se reportaron alteraciones en el peso corporal de los biomodelos; macroscópicamente no se comprobaron alteraciones de valor diagnóstico. Conclusiones: la sustancia ensayada por vía oral, a dosis única, se enmarca como sin clasificar, en el modelo animal y nivel de dosis utilizado bajo las condiciones experimentales observadas

Introduction: Solanum torvum Sw, traditionally known as prendejera, is a medicinal plant used by the population as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent among other properties. No acute toxicity studies are reported on this plant, just long-term toxicity studies. Objectives: to evaluate the acute oral toxicity by the class method using decoction of Solanum torvum leaves and stems orally administered to Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: an acute oral toxicity test based on the class method was conducted. The S torvum plant decoction was administered in one dose of 2000 mg/kg of body weight. Pathological anatomy studies were performed to analyze the toxicity in the tested substance. Results: the evaluated substance did not show any clinical signs of toxicity or animal deaths; no alterations in the body weight of the experimental models were found. There were no alterations of diagnostic value according to the macroscopic analysis. Conclusions: the tested decoction, orally administered at one dose, is regarded as unclassified for the animal model and the dosage used under the observed experimental conditions

Intoxicação por Solanum paniculatum (Solanaceae) em bovinos / Poisoning by Solanum paniculatum (Solanaceae) in cattle

Surtos de uma doença neurológica com sinais cerebelares ocorreram em três fazendas da região Agreste do Estado de Pernambuco. A morbidade foi de 3 a 25%, a mortalidade variou de 0 a 20% e a letalidade foi de 0 a 60%. Uma planta que predominava nos pastos das fazendas foi identificada como Solanum paniculatum. Os sinais clínicos apresentados foram de crises periódicas caracterizadas por incoordenação, extensão da cabeça e pescoço, ataxia, hipermetria, tremores de intenção, nistagmo e quedas. As crises eram induzidas pelo teste de levantar a cabeça ou quando os animais eram assustados ou quando aplicado o teste de levantar a cabeça. Alguns animais apresentaram sinais permanentes com alterações posturais, tremores de intenção, andar cambaleante com os membros em abdução e perda progressiva de peso. De dois bovinos que foram necropsiados, um apresentava diminuição de tamanho do cerebelo com marcada atrofia da substância cinzenta. Histologicamente, um dos bovinos apresentou vacuolização fina do pericário das células de Purkinje do cerebelo com marginalização do núcleo. Em algumas áreas havia perda de neurônios de Purkinje com proliferação de astrócitos de Bergmann. Degeneração do tipo Walleriana, com esferoides axonais e vacúolos, alguns contendo macrófagos, foi observada na camada granular do cerebelo, substância branca cerebelar e medula cerebelar. Neurônios vacuolizados e esferóides axonais foram observados também no núcleo gracilis. Em outro bovino com sinais permanentes, que permaneceu por aproximadamente 10 meses sem ter acesso a S. paniculatum, observou-se ausência quase total de células de Purkinje. Havia severa depleção das camadas granular e molecular que se encontravam marcadamente diminuídas de espessura e com rarefação do neurópilo e menor número de células. Considerando que se desconhece o princípio ativo de S. paniculatum e que a planta é largamente utilizada como planta medicinal é necessário alertar para os riscos de intoxicação em humanos.

Outbreaks of a disease of the nervous system are reported in cattle in three farms in the Agreste region of the state of Pernambuco. Morbidity, mortality and fatality rates varied from 3 to 25%, 0 to 20% and 0 to 60%, respectively. A weed found in large amounts in the pastures was identified as Solanum paniculatum. Clinical signs were characterized by transitory, periodic attacks with loss of balance, incoordinated gait, neck and head extension, hypermetria, intention tremors, nystagmus, and falls. The attacks were induced when the animals were disturbed or by the application of the head raising test. Two cows showed permanent signs including ataxia, abnormal posture, staggering gait with limbs in abduction, intention tremors, hypermetria, and progressive weight loss. Histological lesions in one cow were fine vacuolation of the cerebellar Purkinje neurons with marginalization of the nucleus. Loss of Purkinje neurons with proliferation of Bergmann astrocytes and Wallerian degeneration with axonal spheroids in the granular layer and cerebellar white matter were also observed. Neuronal vacuolation and axonal spheroids were observed in the gracillis nucleus. In one cow that stayed for approximately 10 months in an area free of S. paniculatum with permanent signs, there was a severe depletion of Purkinje neurons in the cerebellum. The granular and molecular layers were reduced and depleted of cells. Considering that the toxic compound of S. paniculatum is unknown, and that the plant is largely used as a medical plant, it is necessary to take into account the risk of human poisoning.

Assessment of mutagenicity and cytotoxicity of Solanum paniculatum L. extracts using in vivo micronucleus test in mice.

Solanum paniculatum L. is a plant species widespread throughout tropical America, especially in the Brazilian Savanna region. It is used in Brazil for culinary purposes and in folk medicine to treat liver and gastric dysfunctions, as well as hangovers. Because of the wide use of this plant as a therapeutic resource and food, the present study aimed at evaluating the mutagenic and cytotoxic effects of S. paniculatum ethanolic leaf and fruit extracts using the mouse bone marrow micronucleus test. Our results indicate that neither S. paniculatum ethanolic leaf extract nor its ethanolic fruit extract exhibited mutagenic effect in mice bone marrow; however, at higher doses, both extracts presented cytotoxic activity.

Assessment of mutagenicity and cytotoxicity of Solanum paniculatum L. extracts using in vivo micronucleus test in mice / Avaliação da mutagenicidade e citotoxicidade de extratos de Solanum paniculatum L. usando o teste do micronúcleo in vivo em camundongos

Solanum paniculatum L. is a plant species widespread throughout tropical America, especially in the Brazilian Savanna region. It is used in Brazil for culinary purposes and in folk medicine to treat liver and gastric dysfunctions, as well as hangovers. Because of the wide use of this plant as a therapeutic resource and food, the present study aimed at evaluating the mutagenic and cytotoxic effects of S. paniculatum ethanolic leaf and fruit extracts using the mouse bone marrow micronucleus test. Our results indicate that neither S. paniculatum ethanolic leaf extract nor its ethanolic fruit extract exhibited mutagenic effect in mice bone marrow; however, at higher doses, both extracts presented cytotoxic activity.

Solanum paniculatum L., popularmente conhecida como jurubeba, ocorre em toda a América tropical, especialmente no Cerrado. No Brasil, é utilizada para fins culinários e na medicina popular para o tratamento de distúrbios gástricos e hepáticos, além de ressacas. Devido à grande utilização desta planta pela população como recurso terapêutico e alimentício, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as atividades mutagênica e citotóxica dos extratos etanólico das folhas e frutos de S. paniculatum utilizando o teste do micronúcleo em medula óssea de camundongos. Os resultados indicam que os extratos etanólicos tanto das folhas quanto dos frutos de S. paniculatum não apresentaram ação mutagênica em medula óssea de camundongos, porém, em doses mais elevadas, ambos os extratos exibiram atividade citotóxica.

Combination larvicidal action of Solanum xanthocarpum extract and certain synthetic insecticides against filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus (SAY).

The combination activities of temephos, fenthion and petroleum ether extract of Solanum xanthocarpum were observed for their larvicidal activities against Culex quinquefasciatus. The combination of temephos and S. xanthocarpum was studied at ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4. Similar ratios were also used for the combination of fenthion and S. xanthocarpum. The temephos/plant extract combination acted antagonistically. The combination of fenthion and plant extract acted synergistically against the target organisms at a ratio of 1:1, which showed the best results of: LC50 0.0144 and 0.0056 ppm and LC90 0.0958 and 0.0209 ppm at 24 and 48 hours, respectively. The present study will be helpful in developing a commercial formulation for effective vector management.

Effect of crude extract of Solanum xanthocarpum against snails and mosquito larvae.

The ethanolic crude extract from Solanum xanthocarpum was investigated for its molluscicidal activity against Biomphalaria glabrata, the snail vector of Schistosoma mansoni, and Indoplanorbis exustus, the snail vector of intestinal echinostomiasis and Schistosoma spindale, together with the larvicidal activity against the larvae of Aedes aegypti, mosquito vector of dengue hemorrhagic fever and Culex quinquefasciatus, the mosquito vector of urban bancroftian filariasis. The bioassays were carried out following the methods recommended by the World Health Organization. For molluscicidal activity, the LC50 against Bi. glabrata and I. exustus were reported at 163.85 and 198.00 mg/l while the LC90 were 219.33 and 236.80 mg/l, respectively. Regarding mosquito larvicidal activity, the LC50 against the larvae of Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus were 788.10 and 573.20 mg/l, while the LC90 were 1288.91 and 1066.93 mg/l, respectively. These results suggest a preparation of ingredients from this plant may be used as a biological larvicide for these vectors in the field.

Toxicidad a dosis repetida de la decocción de Solanum torvum Sw (prendejera) en ratas / Toxicity by repeated doses of Solanum torvum Sw. decoction (prendejera) in rats

INTRODUCCIÓN: Solanum torvum Sw, comúnmente conocida en la zona oriental de Cuba como prendejera, pertenece a la familia Solanaceae y es muy empleada por sus propiedades medicinales tradicionales como antimicrobianas, antiartríticas y antiinflamatorias. OBJETIVOS: evaluar la toxicidad a dosis repetidas por 28 d de la decocción de hojas y tallos S torvum por vía oral en ratas. MÉTODOS: se realizó un ensayo de toxicidad a dosis repetida por el método de test límite por espacio de 28 d a una decocción de la planta S torvum a una dosis de 1 000 mg/kg, administrada por vía oral, de ratas Sprague Dawley. Se efectuaron exámenes de hematología, bioquímica sanguínea y análisis anatomopatológico e histopatológico correspondiente. RESULTADOS: no se observaron signos de toxicidad en los animales. No se reportaron afectaciones en el peso corporal. Los resultados del análisis histopatológico arrojaron ausencia de daños orgánicos ocasionados por la decocción evaluada y corroboraron los resultados antes expuestos. CONCLUSIONES: en las condiciones del ensayo, la decocción de hojas y tallos de S torvum no reportó reacciones tóxicas imputables a la sustancia ensayada(AU)

INTRODUCTION: Solanum torvum Sw, commonly known in Cuban eastern zone as prendejera, belongs to Solanaceae family and is very used due to its traditional medicinal properties as antimicrobial, antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory. OBJECTIVE: to assess the toxicity level by repeated doses for 28 days of leaves and stems decoction of S torvum by oral route in rats. METHODS: a toxicity trial was made in repeated doses by limit test method for 28 days in a decoction of S torvum in a 1 000 mg/kg dose, administered by oral route to Sprague Dawley rats. Hematology, blood Biochemistry examinations and anatomical and pathological and histopathological corresponding analyses were made. RESULTS: there were not toxicity signs in animals and no affectations in body weight. The results of histopathological analysis demonstrated the lack of organic damages provoked by the assessed decoction and corroborated the above results. CONCLUSIONS: in trial conditions, the decoction of leaves and stems of S. torvum there were not toxic reactions attributable to essayed substance(AU)

Toxicidad a dosis repetida de la decocción de Solanum torvum Sw (prendejera) en ratas / Toxicity by repeated doses of Solanum torvum Sw. decoction (prendejera) in rats

INTRODUCCIÓN: Solanum torvum Sw, comúnmente conocida en la zona oriental de Cuba como prendejera, pertenece a la familia Solanaceae y es muy empleada por sus propiedades medicinales tradicionales como antimicrobianas, antiartríticas y antiinflamatorias. OBJETIVOS: evaluar la toxicidad a dosis repetidas por 28 d de la decocción de hojas y tallos S torvum por vía oral en ratas. MÉTODOS: se realizó un ensayo de toxicidad a dosis repetida por el método de test límite por espacio de 28 d a una decocción de la planta S torvum a una dosis de 1 000 mg/kg, administrada por vía oral, de ratas Sprague Dawley. Se efectuaron exámenes de hematología, bioquímica sanguínea y análisis anatomopatológico e histopatológico correspondiente. RESULTADOS: no se observaron signos de toxicidad en los animales. No se reportaron afectaciones en el peso corporal. Los resultados del análisis histopatológico arrojaron ausencia de daños orgánicos ocasionados por la decocción evaluada y corroboraron los resultados antes expuestos. CONCLUSIONES: en las condiciones del ensayo, la decocción de hojas y tallos de S torvum no reportó reacciones tóxicas imputables a la sustancia ensayada

INTRODUCTION: Solanum torvum Sw, commonly known in Cuban eastern zone as prendejera, belongs to Solanaceae family and is very used due to its traditional medicinal properties as antimicrobial, antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory. OBJECTIVE: to assess the toxicity level by repeated doses for 28 days of leaves and stems decoction of S torvum by oral route in rats. METHODS: a toxicity trial was made in repeated doses by limit test method for 28 days in a decoction of S torvum in a 1 000 mg/kg dose, administered by oral route to Sprague Dawley rats. Hematology, blood Biochemistry examinations and anatomical and pathological and histopathological corresponding analyses were made. RESULTS: there were not toxicity signs in animals and no affectations in body weight. The results of histopathological analysis demonstrated the lack of organic damages provoked by the assessed decoction and corroborated the above results. CONCLUSIONS: in trial conditions, the decoction of leaves and stems of S. torvum there were not toxic reactions attributable to essayed substance

Studies on the toxicological effect of the aqueous extract of the fresh, dried and boiled berries of Solanum aculeastrum Dunal in male Wistar rats.

The toxicological effect of the aqueous extract of fresh, dried and boiled berries of Solanum aculeastrum Dunal at 1, 10 and 25 mg/kg body weight was investigated in male Wistar rats for 28 days. The parameters used were the body weight of the animals and absolute weights of the organs, haematological parameters, renal and liver functional endpoints. The animals gained appreciable weight and showed no signs of clinical toxicity. The dried (DB), boiled dried (BDB), fresh (FB) and boiled fresh berry (BFB) extracts reduced (p < .05) the heart-, liver-and spleen-body weight ratio of the animals whereas that of the lung was not altered. The kidney and testes-body weight ratios were specifically altered by the different extract. All these were not accompanied by any histomorphological changes. The extracts did not alter (p > .05) the levels of RBC, Hb, PCV and albumin of the animals. The platelets were decreased by the DB and FB whereas BFB increased this parameter. The FB and BFB at all the doses also reduced the mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) of the animals. With the exception of the FB where the creatinine and chloride levels decreased, other extracts did not alter the level of these kidney parameters. Only FB increased the levels of uric acid and urea. All the extract decreased the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) of the animal. The levels of total protein, globulin, total and conjugated bilirubin were not altered by DB and BDB whereas these indices were increased by FB and BFB. The DB and BDB increased the serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity whereas FB decreased the activity of the enzyme. In contrast, DB and BDB decreased the serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity of the animals whereas FB and BFB increased the activity of the enzyme. The FB and BFB also increased the levels of potassium, magnesium and phosphorus of the animals. Overall, the alterations in the biochemical parameters by the various extracts of S. aculeastrum berries at these doses indicated that the normal functioning of these organs may be adversely affected. However, drying and boiling might reduce the toxic effect of the berries.

Hypertensive effects of oral administration of the aqueous extract of Solanum torvum fruits in L-NAME treated rats: evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Solanum torvum fruits are commonly used in Cameroonian traditional medicine for treatment of arterial hypertension. It has been previously shown that intravenous administration of aqueous extract from dried fruits (AEST) reduced blood pressure. AIM: The present work evaluates acute toxicity and effects of oral administration of AEST in chronic arterial hypertension induced by L-NAME. Effects of AEST were also evaluated on isolated aorta. MATERIALS AND METHODS: AEST (200 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was given solely or concomitantly with L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 30 consecutive days. Animal body weight, systolic blood pressure and heart rate were measured before stating the treatment and at the end of each week. Urinary volume and urinary sodium and potassium contents were quantified before and at days 1, 15 and 30 of the treatment. Aorta from treated animals was tested for their sensitivity to noradrenaline and carbachol. Aorta from normal untreated rats was used to evaluate the in vitro vascular effect of AEST. RESULTS: The results showed that AEST did induce neither mortality nor visible signs of toxicity. When given solely or in co-administration with L-NAME, AEST significantly reduced animal's body weight. It amplified the hypertensive and cardiac hypertrophy effect of L-NAME and did not affect these parameters in normotensive animals. AEST increased the sensitivity to noradrenaline in normotensive and significantly reduced it in hypertensive animals. AEST significantly increased urinary volume and sodium excretion in L-NAME treated animals while reducing the sodium excretion in normotensive. In vitro, AEST induced a potent partial endothelium-dependent contraction of aortic ring; contractions that were partially antagonized by prazosin and verapamil and were not relaxed by carbachol. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that oral chronic administration of AEST induced potentiation of arterial hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy in L-NAME treated rats. These effects may result from a reduction in sensitivity to vasorelaxant agents and increase in hypersensitivity to contractile factors. AEST possess potent in vitro vasocontractile activity that may result from activation of both alpha(1)-adrenergic pathway and calcium influx.

Comparative efficacy of Solanum xanthocarpum extracts alone and in combination with a synthetic pyrethroid, cypermethrin, against malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi.

With a goal of minimal application of environmentally hazardous chemical insecticides, the larvicidal activity of cypermethrin was studied alone and in combination with the root extract of Solanum xanthocarpum against anopheline larvae. Petroleum ether extract was observed to be the most toxic, with LC,, of 1.41 and 0.93 ppm and LC90 of 16.94 and 8.48 ppm at 24 and 48 hours after application, respectively, followed by carbon tetrachloride and methanol extracts. The values for cypermethrin were an LC50 of 0.0369 ppm after 24 hours and 0.0096 ppm after 48 hours and LC90 of 0.0142 and 0.0091 ppm after 24 and 48 hours, respectively. The ratios of cypermethrin and petroleum ether extracts tested were 1:1, 1:2 and 1:4. Of the various ratios tested, the cypermethrin and petroleum ether extract ratio of 1:1 was observed to be more efficient than the other combinations. From the individual efficacy of each constituent, synergism was noted. This is an ideal ecofriendly approach for the control of malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi.

Avaliação do potencial tóxico do fruto da lobeira (solanum grandiflorum), administrado no período de implantação do blastocisto de rato / Evaluation of the toxic potential of lobeira fruit (Solanum grandiflorum) administered during rat blastocyst implantation period

À fruta de lobo, – Solanum lycocarpum, St. Hil. (Solanum grandiflorum, Ruiz et Pavi) – atribuem-se efeitos calmante, sedativo, antiepiléptico e antiespasmódico e o seu polvilho tem sido usado como hipoglicemiante em algumas regiões de Minas Gerais. Não se tem conhecimento, entretanto, de que tenha sido avaliada quanto a seu potencial teratogênico. No presente trabalho avalia-se o efeito da administração de uma solução aquosa (60 mg/15 ml. de água destilada) do polvilho do fruto durante o período de implantação do blastocisto de ratas. Para tanto ratas Wistar adultas, nuligestas, foram acasaladas com machos de fertilidade comprovada e as inseminadas foram distribuídas em grupos controle (13 ratas) e tratados (14 ratas). Cada rata recebeu 0,5 ml da solução de lobeira, por via intragástrica, 2 vezes ao dia, desde o 4º até o 6º dia de gestação. O grupo controle recebeu água destilada pelo mesmo esquema. Os animais foram pesados nos dias 4 , 6 e 14 de gestação. Nesta última data foram sacrificadas por excesso de inalação com éter. Após laparotomia os cornos uterinos foram expostos determinando-se o número de fetos vivos, mortos ou reabsorvidos. Fetos e respectivas placentas foram pesados. Os corpos lúteos de gestação foram contados em cada ovário. Os índices de implantação, de reabsorção; as médias de fetos vivos; os pesos dos fetos e das placentas; e os pesos maternos não se alteraram com o tratamento, indicando ausência de efeito sobre a implantação, na dose utilizada.

Intoxicação por Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) em bovinos: epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e morfometria das lesões cerebelares / Poisoning by Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) in cattle: epidemiology, clinical signs and morphometry of cerebellar lesions

Dezenove casos de intoxicação por Solanum fastigiatum são descritos em bovinos de três municípios do Rio Grande do Sul no período de 2003-2005. Os coeficientes de morbidade e mortalidade foram respectivamente de 6,7 por cento e 3,4 por cento. Os bovinos afetados tinham idade média de 5 anos (2-8 anos) e a evolução clínica variou de 3-18 meses. Os sinais clínicos observados em todos os bovinos foram de disfunções cerebelares caracterizadas por hipermetria, incoordenação, quedas, tremores musculares, convulsões esporádicas e permanência em estação com os membros em base ampla. Em um bovino foi observada hemorragia traumática subdural no encéfalo e em outro, atrofia macroscópica do cerebelo. As lesões histológicas eram confinadas ao cerebelo e consistiram de vacuolização parcial ou total do pericário dos neurônios de Purkinje com ocasionais esferóides axonais na camada de células granulares e na substância branca cerebelar. Nos casos avançados, havia acentuada perda dos neurônios de Pukinje e proliferação dos astrócitos de Bergmann. O estudo morfométrico do número de neurônios de Purkinje e da espessura da camada molecular revelou um decréscimo no número de células de Purkinje que se correlacionou com conseqüente diminuição da espessura da camada molecular.

Nineteen cases of Solanum fastigiatum (Solanaceae) poisoning in cattle from three municipalites in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, occurring from 2003 to 2005, are described. Morbidity and mortality rates were respectively 6.7 percent and 3.4 percent. Average age of affected cattle was five-year-old (2 to 8-year-old) and duration of clinical courses was 3-18 months. Clinical signs observed in all affected cattle were cerebellar deficits characterized by hypermetry, incoordination, falls, muscle tremors, transitory seizures and wide base stance. One affected bovine had encephalic traumatic subdural hemorrhage and another had gross atrophy of the cerebellum. Histologically, lesions were restricted to the cerebellum and consisted of partial or complete vacuolation of the perikaria of Purkinje neurons with occasional axonal spheroids in the granular cell layer and in the white matter of the cerebellum. In advanced cases there were extensive loss of cerebellar Purkinje neurons and proliferation of the Bergmann's glia. The morphometric evaluation of the numbers of Purkinje neurons and of the thickness of the cerebellar molecular layer indicated decreased numbers of Purkinje neurons with consequent decrease in the molecular layer thickness.

Bone changes caused by experimental Solanum malacoxylon poisoning in rabbits

The aim of this study was to describe the bone changes observed after a daily oral administration of the calcinogenic plant Solanum malacoxylon (syn. S. glaucophyllum) (Sm) during 9 days. The Sm-poisoned rabbits had an increase of bone resorption in the endosteal surface of the cortical zone and also in the surface covered by osteoblasts of the primary and secondary spongiosa of the trabecular bone compartment. Moreover, the epiphyseal growth plates in long bones appeared narrower than in the control rabbits, with reduction of the proliferative and hyperthrophic chondrocyte zones. The electron microscopic study revealed a significant decrease of proteoglycans in the hyperthrophic chondrocyte zone evidenced by a significant reduction of rutenium red positive granules in the poisoned rabbit. Altogether, these data suggest that cell differentiation may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Sm-induced bone lesions.