Role of endogenous sulphydryls and neutrophil infiltration in the pathogenesis of gastric mucosal injury induced by piroxicam in rats

First Evidence of Gastroprotection by Schinus molle: Roles of Nitric Oxide, Prostaglandins, and Sulfhydryls Groups in Its Mechanism of Action

Schinus molle is a plant traditionally used in Mexico to treat gastric disorders. However, no scientific evidence has been reported on its gastroprotective effect. The aim of the current contribution was to conduct a bioassay-guided study on S. molle to evaluate its gastroprotective activity in a model of Wistar rats given ethanol orally to induce gastric lesions. The hexane and dichloromethane extracts from the tested plant showed over 99% gastroprotection at a dose of 100 mg/kg. From the hexane extract, two of the three fractions (F1 and F2) afforded over 99% gastroprotection. The F1 fraction was subjected to column chromatography, which revealed a white solid. Based on the ESI-MS analysis, the two main compounds in this solid were identified. The predominant compound was probably a triterpene. This mixture of compounds furnished about 67% gastroprotection at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Pretreatment with L-NAME, indomethacin, and NEM was carried out to explore the possible involvement of nitric oxide, prostaglandins, and/or sulfhydryl groups, respectively, in the gastroprotective activity of the white solid. We found evidence for the participation of all three factors. No antisecretory activity was detected (tested by pylorus ligation). In conclusion, evidence is herein provided for the first time of the gastroprotective effect of S. molle.

Rosmarinic acid prevents gastric ulcers via sulfhydryl groups reinforcement, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects

Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a secondary metabolite present in several plant species that has already demonstrated antioxidant, antiallergic, anticancer, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects experimentally. Due to the promising pharmacological properties found previously, this study aimed to assess the oral acute toxicity and the gastroprotective effect of RA using animal models. Acute toxicity was assessed according to OECD guide 423. Ethanol, stress, NSAIDs, and pylorus ligature-induced gastric ulcer models were used to investigate antiulcer properties. The related mechanisms of action were also evaluated from ethanol-induced gastric lesions protocol. RA (300 and 2000 mg/kg) showed no changes in behavioral, water and food intake, body and organs weight parameters with LD50 set around 2500 mg/kg. RA presented gastroprotective activity in all assessed doses (25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) using different animal models. Besides, it was observed that this effect is not related to the modulation of gastric juice parameters (pH, volume, and [H+]), the participation of nitric oxide, mucus, and prostaglandins. However, increased sulfhydryl groups, GSH and IL-10 levels as well as reduced of proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α and IL-1β) levels were found for RA-treated groups. RA presents low acute toxicity and gastroprotective activity, preventing ulcer formation via cytoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Graphical abstract.

Role of bone marrow derived-mesenchymal stem cells against gastric ulceration: Histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study

The current study aimed to assess the antiulcerogenic impact of mesenchymal bone marrow stem cells (BMMSCs) against gastric ulcer induced by the use of piroxicam in rats and to compare this effect with the antiulcer drug "Pantoloc ®" proton pump inhibitors. The study included histological, histochemical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural examination in stomach of rats in different study groups. In the ulcerated group, the glandular region of the stomach displayed clear mucosal lesions occurring as perforations along the stomach axis. In addition, stomach displayed degeneration of surface mucous cells accompanied by pyknosis, vacuolation among parietal cells in ishmus region, basal region with vacuolated chief cells and karyolitic nucleus of parietal cells. Moreover, Stomach sections of ulcer model rats showed intensive immunoreactivity to cytokeratin 20, Cox 2 and PCNA. Findings of the present study have shown that BMMSCs have an ameliorative effect against piroxicam-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Collectively, the proposed work has shown that BMMSCs have a curative capacity as an antiulcer due to their high antioxidant activity. Further studies are required in molecular levels to understand the mechanism of action during treatment.

Contribution of Secondary Metabolites to the Gastroprotective Effect of Aqueous Extract of Ximenia americana L. (Olacaceae) Stem Bark in Rats

Ximenia americana L. (Olacaceae) is used in ethnomedicine as cicatrizant and for the treatment of gastric disorders. This study identified the chemical constituents of the aqueous extract of X. americana (XaAE) and evaluated its antiulcerogenic activity. After lyophilization, XaAE was analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and its antiulcerogenic effect was evaluated in acute gastric lesions induced by ethanol, acidified ethanol, and indomethacin. Antisecretory action, mucus production and the participation of sulfhydryl groups (-SH) and nitric oxide (NO) were also investigated. The chromatographic analysis identified procyanidins B and C and catechin/epicatechin as major compounds. Oral administration of XaAE (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) inhibited the gastric lesions induced by ethanol (76.1%, 77.5% and 100%, respectively), acidified ethanol (44.9%, 80.6% and 94.9%, respectively) and indomethacin (56.4%, 52.7% and 64.9%, respectively). XaAE reduced gastric contents and acidity (51.4% and 67.7%, respectively) but did not alter the production of gastric mucus. The reduction of the -SH and NO groups promoted by N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) and Nω-nitro-l-arginine-methyl-ester (L-NAME) respectively, reduced the gastroprotective effect of XaAE. In conclusion, XaAE has gastroprotective activity mediated in part by -SH, NO and antisecretory activity. This antiulcer action was initially correlated to its major constituents, procyanidins B and C and catechin/epicatechin.

Semipurified Ethyl Acetate Partition of Methanolic Extract of Melastoma malabathricum Leaves Exerts Gastroprotective Activity Partly via Its Antioxidant-Antisecretory-Anti-Inflammatory Action and Synergistic Action of Several Flavonoid-Based Compounds

Recent study has demonstrated the gastroprotective activity of crude methanolic extract of M. malabathricum leaves. The present study evaluated the gastroprotective potential of semipurified extracts (partitions): petroleum ether, ethyl acetate (EAMM), and aqueous obtained from the methanolic extract followed by the elucidation of the gastroprotective mechanisms of the most effective partition. Using the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer assay, all partitions exerted significant gastroprotection, with EAMM being the most effective partition. EAMM significantly (i) reduced the volume and acidity (free and total) while increasing the pH of gastric juice and enhanced the gastric wall mucus secretion when assessed using the pylorus ligation assay, (ii) increased the enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant activity of the stomach tissue, (iii) lost its gastroprotective activity following pretreatment with N-omega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; NO blocker) or carbenoxolone (CBXN; NP-SH blocker), (iv) exerted antioxidant activity against various in vitro oxidation assays, and (v) showed moderate in vitro anti-inflammatory activity via the LOX-modulated pathway. In conclusion, EAMM exerts a remarkable NO/NP-SH-dependent gastroprotective effect that is attributed to its antisecretory and antioxidant activities, ability to stimulate the gastric mucus production and endogenous antioxidant system, and synergistic action of several gastroprotective-induced flavonoids.

Ulcer healing and mechanism(s) of action involved in the gastroprotective activity of fractions obtained from Syngonanthus arthrotrichus and Syngonanthus bisulcatus

Background

Syngonanthus arthrotrichus and Syngonanthus bisulcatus, currently known for Comanthera aciphylla (Bong.) L.R.Parra & Giul. and Comanthera bisulcata (Koern.) L.R. Parra & Giul, popularly known in Brazil as “sempre-vivas,” are plants from the family Eriocaulaceae. They are found in the states of Minas Gerais and Bahia. The species are known to be rich in flavonoids to which their gastroprotective activity has been attributed. In this research, experimental protocols were performed to elucidate the associated mechanisms of action.

Methods

The activity was evaluated using induced gastric ulcer models (acetic acid and ethanol-induced gastric lesions in NEM or L-NAME pre-treated mice, and by ischemia/reperfusion). Antioxidant enzymes, serum somatostatin, and gastrin were also evaluated.

Results

In chronic gastric ulcers, a single daily oral dose of Sa-FRF or Sb-FRF (100 mg/kg body wt.) for 14 consecutive days accelerated ulcer healing to an extent similar to that seen with an equal dose of cimetidine. The pre-treatment of mice with NEM (N-ethylmaleimide) or L-NAME (N-nitro-L-arginine) abolished the protective activity of Sa-FRF, Sa-FDF, Sb-FDF and Sb-FRF or Sa-FRF and Sb-FRF, respectively, which indicates that antioxidant compounds and nitric oxide synthase activity are involved in the gastroprotective. Sa-FRF and Sb-FRF (100 mg/kg p.o) protected the gastric mucosa against ulceration that was induced by ischemia/reperfusion (72 and 76 %, respectively). It also decreased lipid peroxidation and restored total thiols in the gastric wall of mice that had been treated with ethanol. When administered to rats submitted to ethanol-induced gastric lesions, Sa-FRF and Sb-FRF (100 mg/kg, p.o.) increased the somatostatin serum levels, while the gastrin serum levels were proportionally decreased.

Conclusions

The results indicate significant healing effects and gastroprotective activity for the Sa-FRF and Sb-FRF, which probably involves the participation of SH groups, nitric oxide (NO), the antioxidant system, somatostatin, and gastrin. All are integral parts of the gastrointestinal mucosa’s cytoprotective mechanisms against aggressive factors.

Gastroprotective activity of the hydroethanolic extract and isolated compounds from the leaves of Solanum cernuum Vell

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Solanum cernuum Vell. (Solanaceae) is a Brazilian medicinal plant, traditionally known as "panaceia". Its folk name is probably due to its wide range of applications in traditional medicine including the treatment of ulcers.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the gastroprotective activities of the hydroethanolic extract (ESC) of S. cernuum and its major isolated compounds using in vivo gastric ulcer models.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The ESC extract was obtained by maceration followed by percolation of the dried and powdered leaves of S. cernuum in ethanol:water (7:3). The major compounds in the extract were isolated by applying various preparative chromatographic techniques. The gastroprotective activity was evaluated in mice using different gastric ulcer-induced models. The anti-Helicobacter pylori activity was performed using the agar-well diffusion and broth microdilution methods.

RESULTS

The ESC extract showed gastroprotective effects in the assay of acute gastric ulcer-induced by HCl/EtOH, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and acetic acid-induced chronic ulcer protocols. The results also demonstrated that the gastroprotection induced by ESC extract is related to the activity of nitric oxide and endogenous sulfhydryls, which are important gastroprotective factors. The ESC extract and the alkaloid cernumidine did not show activity against H. pylori in the concentrations tested.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study showed that the crude extract of S. cernuum possessed gastroprotective activity which corroborating the traditional use of this plant for the treatment of gastric ulcers. The isolated flavonoids, quercitrin and afzelin as well as the phenylpropanoid, isoferulic acid are suggested to be the compounds responsible for the gastroprotective activity of S. cernuum extract.

Gastroprotective Mechanisms of the Monoterpene 1,8-Cineole (Eucalyptol)

Recently, our research group identified and reported 1,8-cineole (CIN), a monoterpene that naturally occur in many aromatic plants, as one of the major constituent of the essential oil from leaves of Hyptis martiusii (EOHM), as well as characterized the gastroprotective action of this oil. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms of action involved in the antiulcer and healing activity of CIN, in order to confirm its correlation with the gastroprotective effect of EOHM. Wistar rats were exposed to different protocols (acute ulceration, gastrointestinal motility and antisecretory activity). In addition, were determinated the involvement of nitric oxide and sulphydryl groups; the levels of gastric mucus, lipid peroxidation, sulphydryl groups and myeloperoxidase activity. The healing ability was evaluated by acetic acid-induced chronic ulcer and histological and immunohistochemical analysis (PCNA, Ki-67 and BrdU). The treatment with CIN inhibited ethanol-, ethanol/HCl- and indomethacin-induced gastric lesions. The highest doses of CIN inhibited gastric emptying, but did not affect intestinal transit. CIN (100 mg/kg) reduced the volume of basal but not stimulated acid secretion. CIN increased levels of mucus (89.3%), prevented depletion of -SH groups (62.6%) and reduced the level of lipid peroxidation (55.3%) and myeloperoxidase activity (59.4%) in the gastric mucosa. In chronic ulcer model, CIN reduced in 43.1% the gastric area lesion, promoted significant regeneration and restoration of the levels of mucus in glandular cells as confirmed by histological analysis; and promoted increase in cell proliferation as evidenced by reactivity for PCNA, Ki-67 and BrdU. This findings demonstrate the role of 1,8-cineole as an important ulcer healing agent and indicate the involvement of antioxidant and cytoprotective mechanisms in the gastroprotective effect of compound. This study also provides evidence that 1,8-cineole is related to the gastroprotective effect of the essential oil of Hyptis martiusii.

Mechanisms of gastroprotection of methanol extract of Melastoma malabathricum leaves

BACKGROUND

Melastoma malabathricum L. (Melastomaceae) is a small shrub with various medicinal uses. The present study was carried out to determine the gastroprotective mechanisms of methanol extract of M. malabathricum leaves (MEMM) in rats.

METHODS

The extract's mechanisms of gastroprotection (50, 250, 500 mg/kg) were studied using the pylorus-ligation in rat model wherein volume, pH, free and total acidity of gastric juice, and gastric wall mucus content were determined. The involvement of endogenous nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl (SH) compounds in the gastroprotective effect of MEMM were also measured. MEMM was subjected to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and phytochemical analysis and HPLC profiling.

RESULTS

MEMM contained various phyto-constituents with quercitrin being identified as part of them. MEMM and quercitrin: i) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the volume and acidity of gastric juice while increasing the pH and gastric wall mucus content.; ii) significantly (p < 0.05) increased the level of SOD, GTP and GTR while significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the level of CAT, MPO and TBARS activities.; iii) exerted gastroprotective activity when assessed using the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer assay, which was reversed by N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl esters (L-NAME; an inhibitor of NO synthase) and N-ethylmaleimide (NEM; a sulfhydryl (SH) blocker). MEMM inhibited the lipoxygenase (LOX) and xanthine oxidase (XO) activities with the highest affinity for the former while quercitrin showed high affinity for XO activity.

CONCLUSIONS

MEMM exhibited a gastroprotective activity due partly to the presence of quercitrin, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and via the modulation of NO and SH groups.

Gastroprotective effect of andrographolide sodium bisulfite against indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration in rats

Andrographolide sodium bisulfite (ASB), a water-soluble sulfonate of andrographolide has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic activities. However, there is no report on the gastroprotective effect of ASB against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer. Here we investigated the possible anti-ulcerogenic potential of ASB and the underlying mechanism against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. The ulcer area, histopathological assessment, contents of gastric mucosal glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonaldehyde (MDA) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were examined. In addition, cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) mRNA expression and immunohistochemical evaluation of HSP70, Bcl-2 and Bax proteins were also investigated. Results indicated that ASB pre-treatment significantly reduced the ulcer areas induced by indomethacin compared with the vehicle group. The gastric levels of GSH, CAT and SOD were markedly increased by ASB while the level of MDA was decreased. In addition, ASB pretreatment significantly promoted the gastric PGE2 levels and up-regulated the COX-1 and COX-2 mRNA expression in comparison with the vehicle group. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed obvious up-regulation of HSP70 and Bcl-2 protein expression while suppression of Bax protein in the gastric tissue of ASB-pretreated group. Taken together, these findings indicated that the gastroprotective effect of ASB might be associated with the improvement of antioxidative status, activation of COX-mediated PGE2 synthesis, down-regulation of Bax proteins and up-regulation of Bcl-2 and HSP70 proteins. ASB might have the potential for further development as a promising alternative for antiulcer treatment.

Protective effects of pogostone from Pogostemonis Herba against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats

We examined the protective effect of pogostone (PO), a chemical constituent isolated from Pogostemonis Herba, on the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Administration of PO at doses of 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg body weight prior to ethanol ingestion effectively protected the stomach from ulceration. The gastric lesions were significantly ameliorated by all doses of PO as compared to the vehicle group. Pre-treatment with PO prevented the oxidative damage and the decrease of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) content. In addition, PO pretreatment markedly increased the mucosa levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and decreased gastric malonaldehyde (MDA), relative to the vehicle group. In the mechanistic study, significant elevation of non-protein-sulfhydryl (NP-SH) was observed in the gastric mucosa pretreated by PO. Analysis of serum cytokines indicated that PO pretreatment obviously elevated the decrease of interleukin-10 (IL-10) level, while markedly mitigated the increment of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) secretions in ethanol-induced rats. Taken together, these results strongly indicate that PO could exert a gastro-protective effect against gastric ulceration, and the underlying mechanism might be associated with the stimulation of PGE2, improvement of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status, as well as preservation of NP-SH.

Gastroprotective Effects of Glutinous Rice Extract against Ethanol-, Indomethacin-, and Stress-induced Ulcers in Rats

This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of an orally administered aqueous extract of glutinous rice (GRE) to protect against acute gastric mucosal lesions induced by ethanol, indomethacin, and water immersion restraint stress in rats and to characterize the active substances responsible for the protection. GRE was shown to dose-dependently prevent the gastric lesions induced by the above ulcerogenic treatments at doses of 30 to 300 mg/kg. GRE treatment increased the gastric mucin content and partially blocked the ethanol-induced depletion of the gastric mucus layer. Also, it increased the nonprotein sulfhydryl concentration in the gastric mucosa. The gastroprotective action of GRE was markedly enhanced by co-treatment with 4-8 mg/kg tea extracts. The activity of GRE was completely lost by heat treatment at 80℃ for 3 min or treatment with 0.01% pepsin at 37℃ for 1 h. Protein extraction studies indicated that prolamins are involved in the gastroprotective activity of GRE. Our results suggest that glutinous rice proteins are useful for the prevention and treatment of gastritis and peptic ulcer.

Gastroprotective and ulcer healing effects of essential oil of Hyptis martiusii Benth. (Lamiaceae)

Hyptis martiusii Benth. is an aromatic plant found in abundance in northeastern Brazil that is used in ethnomedicine to treat gastric disorders. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms of action involved in the gastroprotection of the essential oil of Hyptis martiusii (EOHM) and to evaluate its healing capacity. Wistar rats were exposed to different protocols and subsequently were treated with 1% Tween-80 aqueous solution (negative control), pantoprazole, carbenoxolone, N-acetylcysteine (depending on the specificity of each model) or EOHM. The antisecretory activity (basal or stimulated) was determined using the pyloric ligature method. The gastroprotective action of nitric oxide and sulphydryl groups (–SH groups), as well as the quantification of adherent mucus and the levels of malondialdehyde and –SH groups in gastric mucosa, were evaluated using ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model. The healing ability was evaluated using the acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer model and histological and immunohistochemical analysis (HE, PAS and PCNA). EOHM (400 mg/kg) reduced the volume and acidity of gastric secretion stimulated by histamine and pentagastrin. The gastroprotective effect of EOHM involves the participation of endogenous sulfhydryl groups. EOHM increased mucus production (54.8%), reduced levels of MDA (72.5%) and prevented the depletion of –SH groups (73.8%) in the gastric mucosa. The treatment with EOHM reduced in 70.3% the gastric lesion area, promoting significant regeneration of the gastric mucosa, as confirmed by histological analysis and analysis of proliferating cell nuclear antigen. The results show that gastroprotective effect of EOHM is mediated by cytoprotective and antioxidant mechanisms and by their antisecretory activity, and suggest that the essential oil of Hyptis martiusii is a promising candidate for the treatment of gastric ulcers.

Antiulcer activity of Muntingia calabura leaves involves the modulation of endogenous nitric oxide and nonprotein sulfhydryl compounds

Abstract Context: Muntingia calabura L. (Muntingiaceae) is a native plant species of the American continent and is widely cultivated in warm areas in Asia, including Malaysia. The plant is traditionally used to relieve pain from gastric ulcers. Objective: This study was designed to determine the antiulcer activity of a methanol extract of M. calabura leaves (MEMC) and the possible mechanisms of action involved. Materials and methods: An acute toxicity study was conducted using a single oral dose of 2000 mg/kg MEMC. The antiulcer activity of MEMC was evaluated in absolute ethanol- and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer rat models. MEMC was administered orally (dose range 25-500 mg/kg) to rats fasted for 24 h. The animals were pretreated with NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl esters (l-NAME) or N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) prior to MEMC treatment to assess the possible involvement of endogenous nitric oxide (NO) and nonprotein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) compounds in the gastroprotective effect of MEMC. Results: As the administered dose did not cause toxicity in the rats, the oral median lethal dose (LD50) of MEMC was >2000 mg/kg in rats. MEMC exerted significant (p < 0.001) gastroprotective activity in the ethanol- and indomethacin-induced ulcer models dose-dependently. Histological evaluation supported the observed antiulcer activity of MEMC. l-NAME and NEM pretreatment significantly (p < 0.05) reversed and abolished the gastroprotective effect of MEMC, respectively. Discussion and conclusion: The results obtained indicate that MEMC has significant antiulcer activity that might involve the participation of endogenous NO and NP-SH compounds. These findings provide new pharmacological information regarding the potential use of M. calabura.

Effect of menthol in experimentally induced ulcers: pathways of gastroprotection

Based on ethnopharmacological indications that Mentha species may be used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, this study aimed to characterize the gastroprotective mechanisms of menthol (ME), the major compound of the essential oil from species of the genus Mentha. The gastroprotective action of ME was analyzed in gastric ulcers that were induced by ethanol or indomethacin in Wistar male rats. The mechanisms responsible for the gastroprotective effect were assessed by analyzing the amount of mucus secreted, involvement of non-protein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) compounds, involvement of calcium ion channels and NO/cGMP/K(+)ATP pathway, gastric antisecretory activity and the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production. The anti-diarrheal activity and acute toxicity of ME were also evaluated. Oral treatment with ME (50mg/kg) offered 88.62% and 72.62% of gastroprotection against ethanol and indomethacin, respectively. There was an increased amount of mucus and PGE2 production. The gastroprotective activity of ME involved NP-SH compounds and the stimulation of K(+)ATP channels, but not the activation of calcium ion channels or the production of NO. The oral administration of ME induced an antisecretory effect as it decreased the H(+) concentration in gastric juice. ME displayed anti-diarrheal and antiperistaltic activity. There were no signs of toxicity in the biochemical analyses performed in the rats' serum. These results demonstrated that ME provides gastroprotective and anti-diarrheal activities with no toxicity in rats.

Dillapiole, isolated from Peperomia pellucida, shows gastroprotector activity against ethanol-induced gastric lesions in Wistar rats

Peperomia pellucida is a plant used in traditional medicine to treat gastric ulcers. Although this gastroprotective activity was reported, the active compounds have not been identified. Therefore, the aim herein was to identify the most active compound in the gastroprotective activity of P. pellucida using an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer experimental rat model. A gastroprotective effect was observed when the hexane and dichloromethane extracts were tested, with the higher effect being obtained with the dichloromethane extract (82.3 ± 5.6%) at 100 mg/kg. Dillapiole was identified as the most active compound in this extract. Although there have been previous reports on dillapiole, this is the first on its gastroprotective activity. Rats treated with this compound at 3, 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg showed 23.1, 56.1, 73.2 and 85.5% gastroprotection, respectively. The effect elicited by dillapiole at 100 mg/kg was not attenuated by pretreatment with indomethacin (10 mg/kg, s.c.), a prostaglandin synthesis blocker, NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (70 mg/kg, i.p.), a nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, or N-ethylmaleimide (10 mg/kg, s.c.), a blocker of sulfhydryl groups. This suggests that the gastroprotective mechanism of action of dillapiole does not involve prostaglandins, NO or sulfhydryl groups.

Effect of selenium and grape seed extract on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in rats

Indomethacin (IND) is a non-steroid anti-inflammatory agent that is known to induce severe gastric mucosal lesions. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of selenium (SEL), grape seed extract (GSE), and both on IND-induced gastric mucosal ulcers in rats. Sprague-Dawley rats (200-250 g) were given SEL, GSE, and both by oral gavage for 28 days, and then gastric ulcers were induced by oral administration of 25 mg/kg IND. Malondialdehyde (MDA), non-enzymatic (reduced glutathione, GSH) and enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) antioxidants, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in gastric mucosa, and serum tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured. Moreover, gastric ulcer index and preventive index were determined. Indomethacin increased the gastric ulcer index, MDA, TNF-α, and decreased PGE2 and non-enzymatic (GSH) and enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) antioxidants. Pretreatment with SEL, GSE, and both significantly decreased the gastric ulcer index, MDA, and TNF and increased antioxidants and PGE2. Histopathological observations confirm the gastric ulcer index and biochemical parameters. Selenium and GSE have a protective effect against IND-induced gastric ulcers through prevention of lipid peroxidation, increase of GSH, activation of radical scavenging enzymes, PGE2 generation, and anti-inflammatory activity. Co-administration of GSE and SEL is more effective than GSE or SEL alone.

Morphologic and pharmacological investigations in the epicatechin gastroprotective effect

Previous studies of the gastroprotective activity of plants have highlighted the importance of the polyphenolic compound epicatechin (EC) in the treatment of gastric ulcers. This paper aimed to evaluate and characterize the gastroprotective mechanism of action of EC using male rats. The gastroprotective action of EC was analyzed in gastric ulcers induced by ethanol or indomethacin. The involvement of sulfhydryl (SH) groups, K⁺_ATP channels, α₂ adrenoceptors, gastric antisecretory activity, and the amount of mucus in the development of gastric ulcers were investigated. The lowest effective dose of EC providing gastroprotective effects was 50 mg/kg in the ethanol-induced gastric ulcers and 25 mg/kg in the indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers. The gastroprotection seen upon treatment with EC was significantly decreased in rats pretreated with a SH compound reagent or an α₂-receptor antagonist, but not with a K⁺_ATP channel blocker. Furthermore, oral treatment with EC increased mucus production and decreased H⁺ secretion. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the involvement of superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO), and heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) in the gastroprotection. These results demonstrate that EC provides gastroprotection through reinforcement of the mucus barrier and neutralization of gastric juice and this protection occurs through the involvement of SH compounds, α₂-adrenoceptors, NO, SOD, and HSP-70.

Protective Effect ofOriganum majoranaL. 'Marjoram' on Various Models of Gastric Mucosal Injury in Rats

'Marjoram,' Origanum majorana L., a culinary aromatic medicinal herb is known to possess various therapeutic properties. We evaluated the antiulcerogenic activity of the ethanol extract in hypothermic restraint stress-, indomethacin-, necrotizing agents- (80% ethanol, 25% NaCl and 0.2 M NaOH ) induced ulcers and basal gastric acid secretion using pylorus ligated Shay rat-model. Marjoram at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg of body weight, significantly decreased the incidence of ulcers, basal gastric secretion and acid output. Furthermore, the extract replenished the ethanol-induced depleted gastric wall mucus and nonprotein sulfhydryls (NP-SH) contents and significantly lowered the increase in the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA). Ulcer preventing potential was further confirmed by histopathological assessment. An acute toxicity test showed a large margin of safety of the extract in mice. The phytochemical screening of aerial parts of marjoram revealed the presence of volatile oil, flavonoids, tannins, sterols and/or triterpenes.

Antiulcerogenic effects and possible mechanism of action of Quassia amara (L. Simaroubaceae) extract and its bioactive principles in rats

The effects of Quassia amara extract (Q. amara) and its bioactive principles-quassin and 2-methoxycanthin-6-one on gastric ulceration were studied in albino rats. Q. amara (200-800 mg/kg p.o.; 5-20 mg/kg i.p) and 2-methoxycanthin-6-one (12.5, 25.0 and 50.0 mg/kg p.o; 1, 2 and 4 mg/kg i.p) but not quassin (12.5, 25.0 and 50 mg/kg p.o; 1, 2 and 4 mg/kg i.p) significantly inhibited gastric ulceration induced by indomethacin (40mg/kg). Administration of Q. amara (800 mg/kg p.o and 20 mg/kg i.p) and 2-methoxycanthin-6-one (12.5 mg/kg p.o; 4 mg/kg i.p) caused between 77%-85% cytoprotection against indomethacin (40 mg/kg, i.p) - induced gastric ulceration. Quassin did not cause any significant change in indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration. The inhibition of gastric ulceration produced by Q. amara and 2-methoxycanthin-6 one was accompanied by significant dose-dependent decreases (P< 0.01) in total gastric acidity. To investigate the probable mechanism of action, the individual effects of the extract and its principles alone and in combination with histamine (1 mg/kg) or cimetidine (0.12 mg/kg) on gastric acid secretion in situ were studied. Q. amara (20 mg/kg) and 2-methoxycanthin-6-one (4 mg/kg) but not quassin significantly (P< 0.01) inhibited the basal and histamine-induced gastric acid secretion. Inhibition of gastric acid secretion by Q. amara and 2-methoxycanthin-6-one was accentuated by cimetidine. The results suggest that Q. amara and its bioactive principle, 2-methoxycanthin-6-one possess antiulcer activity probably acting via histamine H2 receptor. This could be a potential source of potent and effective antiulcer agents.

Epigallocatechin gallate accelerates healing of indomethacin-induced stomach ulcers in mice

Management of the gastric toxicity of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) remains a crucial problem because the commercially available drugs have side effects and are often expensive. Therefore, we examined the potential of the green tea-derived polyphenol epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) to treat indomethacin-induced stomach ulcers in mice. Administration of indomethacin (18 mg/kg, po) to mice induced ulceration in the glandular portion of the gastric mucosa, accompanied by increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein oxidation and reductions in thiol defense, mucin, cyclooxygenase (COX) expression and prostaglandin (PG) synthesis in the gastric tissues. Daily oral administration of EGCG (2 mg/kg) or omeprazole (3 mg/kg) for 3 days produced similar (≈ 72-75%, p < 0.001) beneficial effects on the acute gastric ulceration. Treatment with the test samples partially reversed all the adverse oxidative effects of indomethacin. In addition, EGCG, but not omeprazole, enhanced expression of the COX isoforms and PG synthesis. The results suggest that the non-toxic and inexpensive tea polyphenol EGCG may be an excellent candidate for further evaluation as a potent anti-ulcer drug.

Gastroprotective activity of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium Lam. in animal models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The stem barks of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium Lam. (Rutaceae), locally known as "mamica de cadela", are popularly used in dyspepsies, stomachic, tonic, antitumoral, antipyretic and are used in treating flatulence and colic. The objective of this study was to evaluate the gastroprotective effect of the ethanolic extract of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium (EEZR) stem barks in acute gastric lesion models, investigating their possible mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice were used for the evaluation of the acute toxicity, and mice and rats to study the gastroprotective activity. The gastroprotective action of EEZR was analyzed in the absolute ethanol, HCl/ethanol and indomethacin-induced gastric lesion models in mice, hypothermic-restraint stress, and ischemia/reperfusion in rats. In the investigation of the gastroprotective mechanisms of EEZR, the participation of the NO-synthase pathway, ATP-sensitive potassium channels (K(ATP)), the levels of the non-protein sulfhydril groups (NP-SH) and the catalase activity using the ethanol-induced gastric mucosa lesion model and the quantification of the gastric mucus and the antisecretory activity through pylorus ligature model in rats were analyzed.

RESULTS

The animals did not present any signs of acute toxicity for the EEZR (up to the 4 g/kg dose, po), and it was not possible to calculate the DL(50). EEZR (125-500 mg/kg) exhibited a significant gastroprotective effect in absolute ethanol, HCl/ethanol, hypothermic-restraint stress, and ischemia/reperfusion-induced gastric lesion models. EEZR (250 and 500 mg/kg) exhibited still a gastroprotective activity in the indomethacin-induced ulcer model. Gastroprotection of EEZR was significantly decreased in pre-treated mice with l-NAME or glibenclamide, the respective nitric oxide synthase and K(ATP) channels inhibitors. Our studies revealed that EEZR (500 mg/kg) prevented the decrease of the non-protein sulfhydril groups (NP-SH) and increased the catalase levels in ethanol-treated animals. Furthermore, the extract (500 mg/kg) significantly increased the mucus production, however, the gastric secretion parameters (volume, [H(+)], pH) did not show any alteration.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the ethanolic extract of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium exhibits a significant gastroprotection, because it inhibits the formation of gastric lesions using different models. The release of the nitric oxide, the opening of the K(ATP) channels, the participation of the non-protein sulfhydril groups (NP-SH), catalase and the increase of mucous secretion seem to be involved in the gastroprotection activity of the EEZR. Nevertheless, this activity does not seem to be related to antisecretory mechanisms.

Gastroprotective and ulcer healing effects of essential oil from Hyptis spicigera Lam. (Lamiaceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hyptis Jacq. (Lamiaceae) is being used in traditional medicine to treat fever, inflammation and gastric disturbances. Hyptis spicigera Lam. is a native plant distributed across the central region of Brazil. The essential oil extracted from this plant is used in folk medicine as antipyretic.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The effects of the essential oil obtained from the aerial parts of Hyptis spicigera (OEH) were evaluated for their gastroprotective and healing activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OEH chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The gastroprotective action of the OEH was evaluated in rodent experimental models (ethanol and NSAID). To elucidate mechanisms of action, the antisecretory action and involvements of NO, SH, mucus and PGE2 were evaluated. The acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer model and Western Blot assay (COX-2 and EGF) were also used to evaluate the OEH healing capacity.

RESULTS

GC-MS analysis of OEH indicated three monoterpenes as major compounds: alpha-pinene (50.8%), cineole (20.3%) and beta-pinene (18.3%) and, at the dose of 100 mg/Kg, p.o., OEH provided effective gastroprotection against lesions induced by absolute ethanol (97%) and NSAID (84%) in rats. OEH do not interfere with H+ secretion in gastric mucosa and its gastric protection does not depend on nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl compounds (SH). The gastroprotective action of OEH occurs due to an increase in the gastric mucus production (28%) induced by PGE2 levels. Furthermore, OEH demonstrated a great healing capacity with 87% of reduction in ulcerative lesion area. It accelerated the healing of acetic acid-induced gastric lesions due to an increase in COX-2 (75%) and EGF (115%) expression in gastric mucosa. No sign of toxicity was observed in this study, considering the analyzed parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

All these results suggest the efficacy and safety of Hyptis spicigera in combating and healing gastric ulcer. Considering the results, it is suggested that the OEH could probably be a good therapeutic agent for the development of new phytotherapeutic medicine for the treatment of gastric ulcer.

Pharmacological mechanisms underlying the anti-ulcer activity of methanol extract and canthin-6-one of Simaba ferruginea A. St-Hil. in animal models

RELEVANCE

Simaba ferruginea A. St-Hil. (Simaroubaceae) is a subshrub typical of the Brazilian Cerrado, whose rhizomes are popularly used as infusion or decoction for the treatment of gastric ulcers, diarrhea and fever.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the pharmacological mechanism(s) of action of the antiulcer effects of the methanol extract of Simaba ferruginea and its alkaloid canthin-6-one.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rhizome of Simaba ferruginea was macerated with methanol to obtain the methanol extract (MESf) from which was obtained, the chloroform fraction. Canthin-6-one alkaloid (Cant) was purified and then isolated from the chloroform fraction (CFSf). The isolated Cant was identified by HPLC. Anti-ulcer assays were determined using ethanol and indomethacin-induced ulcer models in mice and rats respectively. In order to determine the probable mechanisms of actions of MESf and Cant animals were pretreated with l-NAME prior to anti-ulcer agent treatments and ulcer induction and nitric oxide (NO) level determined in order to assess NO involvement in the gastroprotective effects. Assays of malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), pro-inflammatory cytokines: interleukin 8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) were also carried out according to previously described methods.

RESULTS

The results indicate that the antiulcerogenic effects of MESf and Cant in ethanol-induced ulcer is mediated in part through increase in the production of protective endogenous NO as the antiulcerogenic activity of MESf and Cant was reduced in animals pre-treated with l-NAME. In indomethacin-induced ulcer pre-treatment with MESf and Cant showed reduction in the levels of MPO and MDA in the gastric tissue, thus indicating the participation of the antioxidant mechanisms on the gastroprotective effects. The plasma levels of IL-8 in ulcerated rats with indomethacin were also reduced by Cant, but not by MESf, indicating that inhibition of this cytokine contributes to the gastroprotective effect of Cant. However MESf and Cant had no effect on the mucosal membrane levels of PGE(2), indicating that the gastroprotective effects of these agents is independent of PGE(2) modulation.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in this study with MESf and Cant added insights into the pharmacological mechanisms involved in their mode of antiulcer action. The results indicate that Cant is one of the compounds responsible for these effects. Such findings are of extreme importance in the strive for future development of potent, safer and effective antiulcer agent. The efficacy of MESf and Cant in gastroprotection shows that Simaba ferruginea might be a promising antiulcer herbal medicine, in addition to confirming the popular use of this plant against gastric ulcer models utilised in this study.

Biphasic Effect of Phyllanthus emblica L. Extract on NSAID-Induced Ulcer: An Antioxidative Trail Weaved with Immunomodulatory Effect

Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.), apart from its food value, can be used as a gastroprotective agent in non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastropathy. It has been suggested that the antioxidative property of amla is the key to its therapeutic effect. Hence, on the basis of in vitro antioxidative potential, the ethanolic extract of amla (eAE) was selected for in vivo study in NSAID-induced ulcer. Intriguingly, eAE showed biphasic activity in ulcerated mice, with healing effect observed at 60 mg/kg and an adverse effect at 120 mg/kg.The dose-dependent study revealed that switching from anti-oxidant to pro-oxidant shift and immunomodulatory property could be the major cause for its biphasic effect, as evident from the total antioxidant status, thiol concentration, lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl content followed by mucin content, PGE₂ synthesis and cytokine status. Further, Buthionine sulfoxamine (BSO) pretreatment established the potential impact of antioxidative property in the healing action of eAE. However, eAE efficiently reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α and IL-1β) levels and appreciably upregulate anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) concentration. In conclusion, gastric ulcer healing induced by eAE was driven in a dose-specific manner through the harmonization of the antioxidative property and modulation of anti-inflammatory cytokine level.

Black tea and theaflavins assist healing of indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration in mice by antioxidative action

The healing activities of black tea (BT) and the theaflavins (TF) against the indomethacin-induced stomach ulceration were studied in a mouse model. Indomethacin (18 mg/kg, p.o.) administration induced maximum ulceration in the glandular portion of the gastric mucosa on the 3rd day, accompanied by increased lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, depletion of thiol-defense and mucin, as well as reduced expressions of cyclooxygenases (COX) and prostaglandin (PG) E synthesis in the gastric tissues, and plasma total antioxidant status of mice. Treatment with BT (40 mg/kg), TF (1 mg/kg), and omeprazole (3 mg/kg) produced similar (74%-76%) ulcer healing, as revealed from the histopathological studies. Treatment with all the above samples reversed the adverse oxidative effects of indomethacin significantly. BT and TF also enhanced the PGE synthesis by augmenting the expressions of COX 1 and 2, but did not modulate acid secretion.

The 5-HT4 receptor agonist mosapride attenuates NSAID-induced gastric mucosal damage

BACKGROUND

The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is a novel physiological mechanism found at various locations in the body where the nicotinic regulation of inflammatory cells through the autonomic nervous system is involved. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that cholinergic nerve stimulation by a 5-HT(4) agonist may modulate the progression of gastric mucosal ulcers induced by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

METHODS

Acute gastric ulcers were induced in rats by the oral administration of indomethacin.

RESULTS

Gastric damage analysis indicated that pretreatment with mosapride, a selective 5-HT(4) agonist, at 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 mg/kg, inhibited the mucosal damage induced by indomethacin. In gastric emptying analysis, an evacuation effect was observed in the 3.0 mg/kg mosapride pretreatment group, but this effect was not observed in the lower dose (0.5 mg/kg) group. The antiulcerogenic activity of mosapride treatment (at 0.5 mg/kg) was blocked by a 5-HT(4)-specific antagonist, GR113808 (1 mg/kg, i.v.). Additionally, we demonstrated that methyllycaconitine (0.29 and 0.87 mg/kg i.p.), a selective inhibitor of alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptors (alpha7nAChRs), ablated the antiulcerogenic action of mosapride.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the mucosal protective action of mosapride may be mediated by an action on immune cells through the acceleration of ACh release from parasympathetic nerves via the activation of 5-HT(4) receptors, followed by activation of the nicotinic anti-inflammatory system. It appears that the alpha7nAChR may be involved in the antiulcerogenic action of mosapride.

The role of erythropoietin in the protection of gastric mucosa from indometacin-induced gastric injury and its relationship with oxidant and antioxidant parameters in rats

Objectives

Erythropoietin has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activity. We wanted to evaluate its activity in preventing damage to the gastric mucosa.

Methods

We examined the protective effect of erythropoietin on indometacin-induced gastric mucosa damage in the rat stomach and compared its potency with that of famotidine. We also measured effects on oxidant and antioxidant parameters in the rat stomach.

Key findings

Famotidine and erythropoietin 2500 and 5000 IU/kg reduced the ulcer area by 98%, 31% and 58%, respectively, compared with the indometacin group. Superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione level were decreased and myeloperoxidase activity increased in the indometacin group compared with healthy rats. Famotidine and erythropoietin at all doses increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione levels significantly compared with the indometacin group. Myeloperoxidase activity was decreased by erythropoietin and famotidine.

Conclusions

These results support the view that erythropoietin counteracts the effects of indometacin in inducing gastric ulcer and could be used as a an antiulcer compound. Its antiulcer effect is less potent than that of famotidine. The antiulcerogenic effects of erythropoietin may be related to its intrinsic ability to sustain the activities of free-radical scavenging enzymes and the bioavailability of glutathione.

Bioassay-guided isolation of an anti-ulcer chromene from Eupatorium aschenbornianum: role of nitric oxide, prostaglandins and sulfydryls

Eupatorium aschenbornianum is considered useful in the treatment of gastric ulcer. In the current study the validity of this practice was tested by using the experimental model of an ethanol induced gastric ulcer in rats. The results show that E. aschenbornianum had gastroprotective activity, that the hexane extract had the highest protective activity (85.65+/-4.76%), and that encecanescin isolated from this extract was the main active gastroprotective agent. The effect elicited by encecanescin was attenuated by N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, N-ethylmaleimide and indomethacin, which suggests that NO, prostaglandins and sulfydryl groups are involved in the mechanisms of gastroprotective action.

Inactivation of Alcohol Dehydrogenase by Piroxicam-derived Radicals

Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) was used as a marker molecule to clarify the mechanism of gastric mucosal damage as a side effect of using piroxicam. Piroxicam inactivated ADH during interaction of ADH with horseradish peroxidase and H2O2 (HRP-H2O2). The ADH was more easily inactivated under aerobic than anaerobic conditions, indicating participation by oxygen. Superoxide dismutase, but not hydroxyl radical scavengers, inhibited inactivation of ADH, indicating participation by superoxide. Sulfhydryl (SH) groups in ADH were lost during incubation of piroxicam with HRP-H2O2. Adding reduced glutathione (GSH) efficiently blocked ADH inactivation. Other SH enzymes, including creatine kinase and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, were also inactivated by piroxicam with HRP-H2O2. Thus SH groups in the enzymes seem vulnerable to piroxicam activated by HRP-H2O2. Spectral change in piroxicam was caused by HRP-H2O2. ESR signals of glutathionyl radicals occurred during incubation of piroxicam with HRP-H2O2 in the presence of GSH. Under anaerobic conditions, glutathionyl radical formation increased. Thus piroxicam free radicals interact with GSH to produce glutathionyl radicals. Piroxicam peroxyl radicals or superoxide, or both, seem to inactivate ADH. Superoxide may be produced through interaction of peroxyl radicals with H2O2. Thus superoxide dismutase may inhibit inactivation of ADH through reducing piroxicam peroxyl radicals or blocking interaction of SH groups with O2 , or both. Other oxicam derivatives, including isoxicam, tenoxicam and meloxicam, induced ADH inactivation in the presence of HRP-H2O2.

Davilla elliptica and Davilla nitida: gastroprotective, anti-inflammatory immunomodulatory and anti-Helicobacter pylori action

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Davilla elliptica and Davilla nitida are species commonly found in the Brazilian Cerrado biome.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Based on ethnopharmacological and phytochemical analyses, methanolic extracts from leaves of Davilla elliptica (EDE) and Davilla nitida (EDN) were evaluated for their anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, immunological and anti-Helicobacter pylori activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The gastroprotective action of both extracts was evaluated in rodent experimental models (HCl/ethanol, ethanol or NSAID). We also evaluated anti-inflammatory (carrageenin-induced rat hind paw edema), immunomodulatory (murine peritoneal macrophages) and antibacterial action of both extracts against a standard strain of Helicobacter pylori.

RESULTS

EDE and EDN (500 mg/kg) were able to protect gastric mucosa against HCl/ethanol solution (EDE 63%; EDN 59%), absolute ethanol (EDE 95%; EDN 88%), and also against injurious effect of NSAID (EDE 77%; EDN 67%). When EDE and EDN were challenged with sulfhydryl depleter compound, the gastroprotective action of both extracts was completely abolished. EDE had gastroprotective effect related to increase of glutathione bioavailability and stimulated higher levels of NO, H2O2 and TNF-alpha production. Otherwise EDN showed better anti-Helicobacter pylori action than EDE. Neither extracts presented anti-inflammatory activity by oral route.

CONCLUSION

The phytochemical investigation showed that both extracts possess phenolic acid derivatives, acylglycoflavonoids and condensed tannins with evident quantitative variations that probably influenced the pharmacological differences between extracts.

Effect of melatonin on burn-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats

We studied the effect of melatonin treatment on gastric mucosal damage induced by experimental burns and its possible relation to changes in gastric lipid peroxidation status. Melatonin was intraperitoneally applied immediately after third-degree burns over 30% of total body skin surface area of rats. Malondialdehyde (MDA), uric acid (UA) and sulphydril (SH) levels were determined in gastric mucosa and blood plasma and used as biomarkers of the oxidative stress. The results showed that the skin burn caused oxidative stress evidenced by accumulation of MDA and UA as well as the depletion of SHs in gastric mucosa. Plasma MDA concentrations were elevated, while plasma SH concentrations were decreased after burns. Melatonin (10 mg per kg body weight) protected gastric mucosa from oxidative damage by suppressing lipid peroxidation and activating the antioxidant defence. It may be hypothesised that melatonin restores the redox balance in the gastric mucosa and protects it from burn-induced oxidative injury. Melatonin has no significant influence on the concentrations of plasma MDA and antioxidants after burn; therefore, it should largely be considered as a limiting factor for tissue-damage.

Antiulcerogenic action of ethanolic extract of the resin from Virola surinamensis Warb. (Myristicaceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Virola surinamensis (Myristicaceae), popularly known as "mucuíba", "ucuuba" or "ucuúba do igapó" is a large tree that grows abundantly in "Várzea" forest and on river banks in the Brazilian states of Amazonas and Tocantins. The resin obtained by cuts on the stem bark is a reputed folk remedy in its natural form for the treatment of ulcer, gastritis, inflammation and cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present work evaluated the pharmacological activity of the resin obtained from bark of V. surinamensis as antiulcerogenic in experimental in vivo model in order to observe whether its traditional use is justified.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The preventive action of ethanolic extract of V. surinamensis was evaluated in experimental in vivo models in rodents that simulated this disease in human gastric mucosa.

RESULTS

Oral administration of acidified ethanol solution produced severe hemorrhagic lesions in glandular mucosa with ulcerative lesion of 50+/-11.5mm. In animals pretreated with V. surinamensis (500 mg/kg, p.o.) a significant inhibition of mucosal injury of 2.40+/-0.56 mm (95% inhibition) was detected. The V. surinamensis, at the same dose, also reduced significantly (p<0.05) the formation of gastric lesions induced by indomethacin (39%), stress (45%) and by pylorus ligature in mice (31%) when compared to animals treated with vehicle. The extract from V. surinamensis exerts gastroprotective action only when this extract contacts gastric mucosa (oral route) with increased pH values and reduced H+ concentration of gastric contents. The ethanolic extract of V. surinamensis resin was analyzed by TLC and spectrometric methods (NMR and ES-MS) and the main constituent of this extract was epicatechin.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that the epicatechin present in V. surinamensis resin may be among active principles responsible for the antiulcer activity shown by the tested resin but their used suggest carefulness because toxicological symptoms mentioned by population.

Hancornia speciosa: indications of gastroprotective, healing and anti-Helicobacter pylori actions

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomez) is a medicinal plant frequently cited in ethnopharmacological inventories of the central region of Brazil against gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhoea, ulcer, gastritis and stomach ache.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The hydroalcoholic extract (HE) and infusion (BI) of Hancornia speciosa bark were investigated for their ability to prevent and heal rodent gastric ulcer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The preventive and healing action of both preparations of Hancornia speciosa were evaluated in experimental models in rodents that simulated this disease in human gastric mucosa.

RESULTS

BI did not exert gastroprotective effect, in contrast to HE (500mg/kg, p.o.) that decreased (p<0.05) the severity of gastric damage induced by HCl/ethanol (52%), indomethacin/bethanechol (51%), stress (52%) or pylorus ligature experiments (54%). HE increased (p<0.05) the pH and decreased acid output of gastric juice. This extract promoted increase of mucus amount (3.62mg/wt. tissue vs. 5.81mg/wt. tissue), healing action (67%) and displayed anti-Helicobacter pylori effect.

CONCLUSIONS

The antiulcer action of Hancornia speciosa resulted in increase of gastric mucus formation and antioxidant properties of polymeric proanthocyanidins present in the bark composition of this medicinal plant.

Bioassay-guided isolation of an anti-ulcer diterpenoid from Croton reflexifolius: role of nitric oxide, prostaglandins and sulfhydryls

Croton reflexifolius H. B. K (Euphorbiaceae) is a very common medicinal plant in the Huastecan region of Mexico that, according to local folk medicine, is considered useful in the treatment of gastritis and gastric ulcer. We have aimed to test the validity of this practice by using the experimental model of an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in male Wistar rats. The results showed that C. reflexifolius had gastroprotector activity, that the hexane extract had the highest protective activity (64.38+/-7.72%), and that polyalthic acid isolated from this extract was the main active gastroprotector agent. Rats treated orally with polyalthic acid showed a gastroprotective effect similar to that elicited by carbenoxolone. As with carbenoxolone, the effect elicited by polyalthic acid was attenuated by pretreatment with either N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (70 mgkg(-1), i.p.), a nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, or N-ethylmaleimide (10 mgkg(-1), s.c.), a blocker of sulfhydryl groups. This suggested that the gastroprotective mechanism of this diterpenoid involved the participation of both NO and endogenous sulfhydryl groups. Contrary to carbenoxolone, the gastroprotective effect of polyalthic acid was not affected by the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis with indometacin (10 mgkg(-1), s. c.). In conclusion, Croton reflexifolius contains compounds with gastroprotector activity. Polyalthic acid, which was isolated from this plant, was the main compound with gastroprotector activity, having effectiveness similar to that found with the use of carbenoxolone. Whereas NO and sulfhydryl groups were involved in the mechanisms of gastroprotective action of polyalthic acid, prostaglandins were not.

Healing potential of Picrorhiza kurroa (Scrofulariaceae) rhizomes against indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration: a mechanistic exploration

Background

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the potential of the rhizomes of the Indian medicinal plant, Picrorhiza kurroa in healing indomethacin-induced acute stomach ulceration in mice and examine its capacity to modulate oxidative stress and the levels of prostaglandin (PGE₂) and EGF during the process.

Methods

Male swiss albino mice, ulcerated with indomethacin (18 mg/kg, p. o., single dose) were treated up to 7 days with different doses of the methanol extract of P. kurroa rhizomes (designated as PK). The healing capacity of the most effective dose of PK (20 mg/kg, p. o. × 3 d) was compared with that of omeprazole (Omez) (3 mg/kg, p. o. × 3 d). The effects of the drug-treatment for one and three days on the biochemical parameters were assessed by comparing the results with that of untreated mice of the 1^st and 3^rd day of ulceration. The stomach tissues of the mice were used for the biochemical analysis.

Results

The macroscopic indices revealed maximum ulceration on the 3^rd day after indomethacin administration, which was effectively healed by PK. Under the optimized treatment regime, PK and Omez reduced the ulcer indices by 45.1% (P < 0.01), and 76.3% respectively (P < 0.001), compared to the untreated ulcerated mice.

Compared to the ulcerated untreated mice, those treated with PK for 3 days showed decreased the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (32.7%, P < 0.05) and protein carbonyl (37.7%, P < 0.001), and increased mucin (42.2%, P < 0.01), mucosal PGE₂ (21.4%, P < 0.05), and expressions of COX-1 and 2 (26.9% and 18.5%, P < 0.05), EGF (149.0%, P < 0.001) and VEGF (56.9%, P < 0.01). Omez reduced the TBARS (29.4%, P < 0.05), and protein carbonyl (38.9%, P < 0.001), and increased mucin (38.3%, P < 0.01), without altering the other parameters significantly.

Conclusion

PK (20 mg/kg, p. o. × 3 days) could effectively heal indomethacin-induced stomach ulceration in mice by reducing oxidative stress, and promoting mucin secretion, prostaglandin synthesis and augmenting expressions of cyclooxygenase enzymes and growth factors.

Anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of the n-butanol fraction from Pteleopsis suberosa stem bark

Pteleopsis suberosa Engl. et Diels (Combretaceae) is a tree distributed in many African countries. The decoction from the stem bark is orally administered for the treatment of gastric ulcers in traditional medicine. Previous pharmacological studies reported the anti-ulcer activity of extracts from P. suberosa stem bark. In the present study, the anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory effects of the n-butanol fraction (RBuOH) obtained from a methanol extract of P. suberosa bark were investigated on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats and carrageenan-induced paw oedema in mice. Misoprostol (0.50 mg/kg, p.o.) and indomethacin (8.00 mg/kg, p.o.) were used as positive controls for anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory activities, respectively. Results showed that RBuOH treatment significantly reduced the incidence of gastric lesions (50 mg/kg, P<0.05; 100 and 200 mg/kg, P<0.01) and restored the decreased levels of total sulfhydryl groups (T-SH) and non-protein sulfhydryl groups (NP-SH) (50, 100 mg/kg, P<0.05; 200 mg/kg, P<0.01) in the stomach homogenate. Moreover, RBuOH treatment attenuated MDA levels as index of lipid peroxidation in gastric mucosa. Administration of RBuOH at the same dosage (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) reduced significantly (P<0.01) carrageenan-induced paw oedema in dose-dependent manner (from 42.81% to 87.81% inhibition, 5h after carrageenan injection). The anti-inflammatory effect of RBuOH at 200 mg/kg was comparable with that of indomethacin. Finally, RBuOH proved to possess elevated free radical scavenger capacity on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay (IC(50) 23.48 microg/ml) which may contribute to the observed anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory activities.

Studies of gastric mucosa regeneration and safety promoted by Mouriri pusa treatment in acetic acid ulcer model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mouriri pusa Gardn. (Melastomataceae) is a medicinal plant commonly used by people living in the Cerrado to treat gastrointestinal disturbances. This medicinal plant has shown intense gastroprotective action in rodent gastric lesion, but still there are no data about its healing effect on gastric mucosa.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the methanolic extract (MeOH) obtained from Mouriri pusa leaves for its effect on the cicatrisation process of gastric ulcer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The healing effects on gastric ulcers inducted by subserosal injection of acetic acid were evaluated by macroscopic and microscopic measures, immunohistochemistry and cell counting in rats treated with MeOH extract of Mouriri pusa (250 mg/kg, p.o./daily) for 14 or 30 days. The toxicity of Mouriri pusa was also evaluated by body and organ weight measure and clinical biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

Mouriri pusa treatments lasting 14 and 30 days showed elevated mucus secretion (PAS) and thicker regenerative gastric mucosa, denoting increased cell proliferation, which was confirmed by PCNA immunohistochemical analysis. Moreover, there was important cell recruitment (neutrophils and mast cells) to the site of the ulcer, which is an important factor in ulcer healing. No toxic effect was observed in all parameters evaluated. Phenolic compounds present in the MeOH extract like tannins, flavonoids and epicatechin are the probable agents involved in the healing effects of this medicinal plant.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings showed a potential effect of Mouriri pusa in increasing regeneration of damaged gastric mucosa with safety for human use.

Gastroprotective properties of Myristica malabarica against indometacin-induced stomach ulceration: a mechanistic exploration

The healing activity of the methanol extract of the spice rampatri, Myristica malabarica, (RM) and omeprazole against indometacin-induced stomach ulceration has been studied in a mouse model. Treatment with RM (40 mg kg(-1) per day) and omeprazole (3 mg kg(-1) per day) for 3 days could effectively heal the stomach ulceration, as revealed from the ulcer indices and histopathological studies. Compared with the ulcerated group, treatment with RM and omeprazole for 3 days reduced the macroscopic damage score by approximately 72% and 76%, respectively (P<0.001), establishing the efficacy of RM. The extent of ulcer healing offered by 3 days' treatment with RM or omeprazole was better than that observed with natural recovery over 5 and 7 days (P<0.05). The healing capacities of RM and omeprazole could be attributed to their antioxidant activity as well as the ability to enhance the mucin content of the gastric tissues. Both drugs reduced lipid peroxidation (by 42-44%) and protein carbonyl content (by 34%), and augmented non-protein thiol levels beyond normal values. Furthermore, RM improved the mucin level beyond the normal value, while omeprazole restored it to near normalcy.

Vernonia polyanthes as a new source of antiulcer drugs

Methanolic (VPME) and chloroformic (VPCL) extracts, obtained from the aerial parts of Vernonia polyanthes, were investigated for its antiulcerogenic properties. Administration of VPME (250 mg/kg) and VPCL (50 mg/kg) significantly inhibited the gastric mucosa damage (64% and 90%, respectively) caused by absolute ethanol (p.o.). Otherwise, in NSAID-induced gastric damage, their gastroprotective effects have decreased. Since the VPCL extract resulted to be more effective than the VPME we focused our efforts over VPCL action mechanism of action.