Aqueous extract from Ipomoea asarifolia (Convolvulaceae) leaves and its phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory activity in murine models of edema, peritonitis and air-pouch inflammation

Anti-inflammatory and antiophidic effects of extract of Hymenaea eriogyne Benth and structure-activity relationship prediction of the major markers in silico

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hymenaea eriogyne Benth (Fabaceae) is popularly known as "Jatobá". Despite its use in folk medicine to treat inflammatory disorders, there are no descriptions that show its anti-inflammatory potential.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this sense, this study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antivenom action of bark and leaves extract of H. eriogyne.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was conducted by carrageenan-induced paw edema and zymosan-induced air pouch models, evaluating the edematogenic effect, leukocyte migration, protein concentration, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, malondialdehyde (MDA) and MPO activity. The antivenom potential was investigated in vitro on the enzymatic action (proteolytic, phospholipase and hyaluronidase) of Bothrops brazili and B. leucurus venom, as well as in vivo on the paw edema model induced by B. leucurus. Furthermore, the influence of its markers (astilbin and rutin) on myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was investigated in silico. For molecular docking, AutodockVina, Biovia Discovery Studio, and Chimera 1.16 software were used.

RESULTS

The extracts and bark and leaves of H. eriogyne revealed a high anti-inflammatory effect, with a reduction in all inflammatory parameters evaluated. The bark extract showed superior results when compared to the leaf extract, suggesting the influence of the astilbin concentration, higher in the bark, on the anti-inflammatory action. In addition, only the H. eriogyne bark extract was able to reduce MDA, indicating an associated antioxidant effect. Regarding the in vitro antivenom action, the extracts (bark and leaves) revealed the ability to inhibit the proteolytic, phospholipase and hyaluronidase action of both bothropic venom, with a greater effect against B. leucurus venom. In vivo, extracts from the bark and leaves of H. eriogyne (50 - 200 mg/kg) showed antiedematogenic activity, reducing the release of MPO and pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicating the presence of bioactive components useful in controlling the inflammatory process induced by the venom. In the in silico assays, astilbin and rutin showed reversible interactions of 9 possible positions and orientations towards MPO, with affinities of -9.5 and -10.4 kcal/mol and interactions with Phe407, Gln91, His95 and Arg239, important active pockets of MPO. Rutin demonstrated more effective types of interactions with MPO.

CONCLUSION

This approach reveals for the first time the anti-inflammatory action of H. eriogyne bark and leaf extracts in vivo, as well as its antiophidic potential. Moreover, the distinct effect of pharmacogens as antioxidant agents and distinct effect of astilbin and rutin under MPO sheds light on the different anti-inflammatory mechanisms of bioactive compounds present in H. eriogyne extracts, with high potential for the prospection of new pharmacological agents.

Isolation of indole alkaloids and a new norneolignan of hydroethanol extract from the stem barks of Aspidosperma nitidum Benth: Preclinical evaluation of safety and anti-inflammatory and healing properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aspidosperma nitidum Benth (Apocynaceae) is a tree found in Brazil especially in the Amazonia region, known as "carapanaúba", being used by indigenous and cabloco population in folk medicine in the treatment of malaria, leprosy, rheumatism, cancer, diabetes and inflammatory disorders. However, there are no scientific reports, up to now, to evidence its popular use as anti-inflammatory and healing agent.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to isolate indole alkaloids, as well as investigate the safety, anti-inflammatory and healing properties of hydroethanol extract from the stem barks of Aspidosperma nitidum Benth (An).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The compounds were isolated using diverse chromatographic methodologies and the structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses. The safety was evaluated in vitro through 3-methyl-[4-5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay using murine fibroblast (3T3) and monkey kidney (Vero E6) cell lines and by the hemolytic assay, as well as, in vivo, through acute toxicity model, which the mice received a single dose of 2000 mg/kg of An, by intra-gastric (i.g.) route, and behavioral, hematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated. The anti-edematogenic effect was monitored through carrageenan-induced paw edema model, in which the rodents were treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of An by i. g., the percentage of edema (0-4 h), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) levels were quantified. The anti-inflammatory activity was demonstrated through the zymosan-air-pouch model, in which the animals were treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of An by i. g, and the leukocytes number, MPO, total protein and cytokines levels were determined. In addition, the healing potential was evaluated through a skin wound model, in which the mice received 50, 100 and 200 mg/mL of An in wound area, and the wound skins were photographed and the area calculated.

RESULTS

In total, five compounds were isolated in the An, being a new 8,9-dinorneolignan glucoside and four known indole alkaloids. The MTT and hemolytic assays, in all concentrations of the extract, demonstrated not be cytotoxic. Acute toxicity model also evidenced no sign of toxicity or significant changes on the behavior, biochemical and hematological parameters after use of the extract. In the edematogenic model, the An reduced significantly the percentage of edema, as well as, the MPO and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels. The same form, An revealed to be efficient in decreasing the leukocytes migration (mainly polymorphonuclears), total proteins, MPO and cytokines concentrations in the zymosan-air-pouch assay. Moreover, the An revealed a healing effect, reducing the area of the skin wound.

CONCLUSION

Ours results evidence in the first time, the anti-inflammatory and healing property of An, justifying its use in traditional medicine. Moreover, include cytotoxicity in vitro and acute toxicity in vivo tests, which indicate the safety of use of the extract.

Phytochemical analysis and preclinical toxicological, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory evaluation of hydroethanol extract from the roots of Harpalyce brasiliana Benth (Leguminosae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Harpalyce brasiliana Benth (Leguminosae) is a shrub endemic to Brazil, popularly known as "snake's root." This species is used in folk medicine for the treatment of inflammation and snakebites. However, up to now there is no scientific research to justify its popular use. The study aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile of the hydroethanol extract from the roots of H. brasiliana (Hb), to evaluate its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, as well as to investigate its cytotoxicity and acute toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The extract was obtained by maceration method using a solution of ethanol:water (70: 30, v/v). The phytochemical profile was obtained by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The cytotoxicity of extract (31-2000 μg/mL) was evaluated in vitro, by the 3-methyl-[4-5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method using murine macrophage and fibroblast cell lines (RAW 247.6 and 3T3, respectively) and by the hemolytic assay. For the in vivo acute toxicity, the extract (2000 mg/kg) was administered and after 14 days the weight (body and organs) and hematological and biochemical parameters were analyzed. Chemical free radical scavenging effect of the extract (125-2000 μg/mL) was investigated through diphenylpicryl hydrazine reduction, total antioxidant capacity, reducing power, hydroxyl radical scavenging, and iron and copper chelating assays. In vitro anti-inflammatory effect of the extract (125, 500, and 2000 μg/mL) was demonstrated through of nitric oxide (NO) analyzed in lipopolysaccharides stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In vivo anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated in carrageenan-induced paw edema and zymosan-air-pouch models, with gavage administration (post-treatment) of extract at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. For the first animal model, the anti-edematogenic activity and myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels were investigated, while in the zymosan-air-pouch model the leukocyte number, MPO, total protein and pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) levels were quantified. In addition, the oxidative parameters such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were determined.

RESULTS

The phytochemical profile revealed the presence of 20 compounds, mainly prenylated and geranylated pterocarpans. The extract demonstrated no cytotoxicity in erythrocytes, macrophages and fibroblasts cells at the tested concentrations, as well as no sign of toxicity and mortality or significant alterations on the hematological and biochemical parameters in the acute toxicity model. The extract was also able to neutralize chemical free radicals, with copper and iron chelating effect. For the NO dosage, the extract evidenced the reduction of expression of NO after the administration of the extract (500 and 2000 μg/mL). The edematogenic model revealed a decrease in paw edema and MPO level, while the zymosan-air-pouch model evidenced a reduction of leukocyte number (especially of polymorphornuclears), MPO production, and total protein and cytokine levels, and demonstrated the antioxidant effect through a decrease in MDA and increase in GSH parameters.

CONCLUSION

This approach demonstrates for the first time that Hb is not cytotoxic, has low acute toxicity, and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in preclinical analyses, corroborating its popular use.

Therapeutic potential of Ipomoea asarifolia on infected Swiss albino rats with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus

Introduction: Curative misuse of medicinal plants are worrisome with the paucity of histological information. This led to the investigation of Ipomoea asarifolia in Swiss albino rats infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Methods: Extraction was done using the cold maceration method. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the extracts were determined using the micro-dilution method. Swiss albino rats of 6 sub-groups with 6 animals each (36 animals/organism) were administered with 0.3 ml single oral dose of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus respectively. The animals received treatment for 5 days as follows: 0.5 ml of 5% dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) (negative control), 250 mg/kg of amoxicillin (positive control), 2 mg/kg of whole plant extract, 4 mg/kg of whole plant extract, 2 mg/kg of leaf extract, and 4 mg/kg of leaf extract, respectively. The packed cell volume (PCV) and white blood count (WBC) of the animals were determined before and after treatment with histology examination of vital organs. Results: MIC for S. aureus was 2 mg/mL; the mortality in S. aureus group at 2 mg/kg was 66.7%. The PCV values (50.5±0.5, 45.0±1.0, and 50.5±1.5) decreased after infection, and a corresponding increase in the PCV was observed after treatment with the extracts. Also, a significant increase in the WBC values (3.40±0.35, 4.10±0.15, and 3.30±0.40) following infection and a corresponding decrease after treatment were observed. Congestion of vessels in the kidney was also observed. Conclusion: I. asarifolia has a dose-dependent antibacterial and curative activity, and could enhance innate immunity.

Evaluation of the treatment of fever, pain and inflammation with Indigofera suffruticosa Miller Leaves Aqueous Extract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Indigofera suffruticosa has reports of its popular use for analgesy in several cultures. Besides that, all parts of this plant are used for some medicinal outcome. The leaves are used in teas, decoctions, juices and included in baths for treating fever and inflammatory processes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity mechanisms of I. suffruticosa leave aqueous extract (IsAE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical screening of IsAE was performed by thin layer chromatography. Total flavonoid content was determined and expressed by milligram of quercetin equivalent per gram of extract (mgEQ/g). 50% of the lethal dose that kills animals (LD₅₀) was determined by acute toxicity in mice. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated through carrageenan-induced paw edema, peritonitis, and protein denaturation inhibition. Anti-nociceptive potential was evaluated by acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin tests. Antipyretic activity was assessed by yeast-induced fever.

RESULTS

Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids and acid gallic in a quantity of 33.9 mg QE/g. Acute toxicity evaluation resulted in a LD₅₀ of 3807.88 mg/kg. For carrageenan-induced paw edema test, IsAE in both doses (20 and 100 mg/kg) reduced the edema in 83.93%. IsAE reduced nitric oxide (NO) production and leucocytes migration to peritonitis inflammation site and at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL showed also inhibition of protein denaturation similar to indomethacin in the same concentration. IsAE inhibited in 72.60% the number of contortions in writhing test. In formalin test, IsAE was also efficient, but showed results only in the second phase. In addition, the concentration of 100 mg/kg reduced fever significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

IsAE proved to be anti-inflammatory, acting in different parts of the inflammation process, confirming its popular use.

Ethyl 2-Succinate-Anthraquinone Attenuates Inflammatory Response and Oxidative Stress via Regulating NLRP3 Signaling Pathway

Aloe-emodin widely possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-infectious properties. This study investigated the effect of ethyl 2-succinate-anthraquinone (Luhui derivative, LHD) on inflammation. In vitro, a THP-1 macrophage inflammation model, made by 100 ng/ml phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) and 1 μg/ml LPS for 24 h, was constructed. The LHD group (6.25 μmol/L, 12.5 μmol/L, 25 μmol/L, 50 μmol/L) had no effect on THP-1 cell activity, and the expression of IL-6 mRNA was down-regulated in a concentration-dependent manner, of which the 25 μmol/L group had the best inhibitory effect. The migration of THP-1 macrophages induced by LPS was decreased by the LHD. Moreover, the LHD suppressed ROS fluorescence expression by inhibiting MDA expression and increasing SOD activity. In vivo, we revealed that the LHD, in different doses (6.25 mg/kg, 12.5 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg), has a protective effect on stress physiological responses by assessing the body temperature of mice. Interestingly, acute lung injury (e.g., the structure of the alveoli disappeared and capillaries in the alveolar wall were dilated and congested) and liver damage (e.g., hepatocyte swelling, neutrophil infiltration, and hepatocyte apoptosis) were obviously improved at the same condition. Furthermore, we initially confirmed that the LHD can down-regulate the expression of NLRP3, IL-1β, and caspase-1 proteins, thereby mediating the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway to produce anti-inflammatory effects. In conclusion, our results indicate that the LHD exerts anti-inflammatory activity via regulating the NLRP3 signaling pathway, inhibition of oxidative stress, and THP-1 macrophage migration.

Production and Characterization of Chitooligosaccharides: Evaluation of Acute Toxicity, Healing, and Anti-Inflammatory Actions

The search for promising biomolecules such as chitooligosaccharides (COS) has increased due to the need for healing products that act efficiently, avoiding complications resulting from exacerbated inflammation. Therefore, this study aimed to produce COS in two stages of hydrolysis using chitosanases derived from Bacillus toyonensis. Additionally, this study aimed to structurally characterize the COS via mass spectrometry, to analyze their biocompatibility in acute toxicity models in vivo, to evaluate their healing action in a cell migration model in vitro, to analyze the anti-inflammatory activity in in vivo models of xylol-induced ear edema and zymosan-induced air pouch, and to assess the wound repair action in vivo. The structural characterization process pointed out the presence of hexamers. The in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility of COS was reaffirmed. The COS stimulated the fibroblast migration. In the in vivo inflammatory assays, COS showed an antiedematogenic response and significant reductions in leukocyte migration, cytokine release, and protein exudate. The COS healing effect in vivo was confirmed by the significant wound reduction after seven days of the experiment. These results indicated that the presence of hexamers influences the COS biological properties, which have potential uses in the pharmaceutical field due to their healing and anti-inflammatory action.

Anti-Inflammatory, Antipyretic, and Analgesic Properties of Potamogeton perfoliatus Extract: In Vitro and In Vivo Study

Natural antioxidants, especially those of plant origins, have shown a plethora of biological activities with substantial economic value, as they can be extracted from agro-wastes and/or under exploited plant species. The perennial hydrophyte, Potamogeton perfoliatus, has been used traditionally to treat several health disorders; however, little is known about its biological and its medicinal effects. Here, we used an integrated in vitro and in vivo framework to examine the potential effect of P. perfoliatus on oxidative stress, nociception, inflammatory models, and brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia in mice. Our results suggested a consistent in vitro inhibition of three enzymes, namely 5-lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenases 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2), as well as a potent antioxidant effect. These results were confirmed in vivo where the studied extract attenuated carrageenan-induced paw edema, carrageenan-induced leukocyte migration into the peritoneal cavity by 25, 44 and 64% at 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg, p.o., respectively. Moreover, the extract decreased acetic acid-induced vascular permeability by 45% at 600 mg/kg, p.o., and chemical hyperalgesia in mice by 86% by 400 mg/kg, p.o., in acetic acid-induced writhing assay. The extract (400 mg/kg) showed a longer response latency at the 3 h time point (2.5 fold of the control) similar to the nalbuphine, the standard opioid analgesic. Additionally, pronounced antipyretic effects were observed at 600 mg/kg, comparable to paracetamol. Using LC-MS/MS, we identified 15 secondary metabolites that most likely contributed to the obtained biological activities. Altogether, our findings indicate that P. perfoliatus has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic and antipyretic effects, thus supporting its traditional use and promoting its valorization as a potential candidate in treating oxidative stress-associated diseases.

Topical and systemic use of Joannesia princeps vell. LC seed oil in acute pain and inflammation induced by different agents

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Joannesia princeps (SOJP) has been used in folk medicine as anthelmintic treatment and cutaneous wound healing.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the pharmacological activity of seed oil of Joannesia princeps, administered systemically and topically, on acute pain and inflammation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male swiss mice were treated orally and topically with seed oil of Joannesia princeps in models of acute pain (acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing, formalin-induced licking behaviour and tail flick tests) and acute inflammation (carrageenan- and histamine-induced paw oedema; arachidonic acid-, capsaicin- and croton oil-induced ear oedema and air pouch tests), besides the open field model in the motor performance evaluation.

RESULTS

Seed oil of Joannesia princeps showed systemic action against acute pain in abdominal writhing test (37% and 56% inhibition in the number of writhes at doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg, respectively) and in the second phase of formalin-induced licking behaviour test (29%, 47 and 52% inhibition in the licking time at doses of 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg, respectively), as well as reducing croton oil-induced ear oedema by 72%, leukocyte recruitment and production of TNF-α and IL-6 in the air pouch tests. In addition, topical administration of SOJP inhibited carrageenan-induced paw oedema by 39% at dose of 500 μg/paw and inhibited histamine-induced oedema by 43 and 52% at doses of 300 and 500 μg/paw, respectively. SOJP also decreased croton oil-induced ear oedema by 67% at dose of 500 μg/paw and arachidonic acid-induced ear oedema by 63% at dose of 500 μg/paw, reducing the production of TNF-α, IL-1β and MIP2 in both. In addition, no adverse effects were observed at doses up to 2000 mg/kg.

CONCLUSIONS

Seed oil of Joannesia princeps presents antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions through its topical and systemic administration, promoted by inhibition of leukocyte recruitment and cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and MIP-2).

Methanol, ethyl acetate and n-hexane extracts of Tragia involucrata L. leaves exhibit anxiolytic, sedative and analgesic activity in Swiss albino mice

INTRODUCTION

Tragia involucrata L. have been utilized as traditional medicine in Indian subcontinent for the treatment of numerous illnesses such as inflammation, pain and skin infection. In this current study we sought to assess the anxiolytic, sedative and analgesic activity of Tragia involucrata L. leaves extract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We first performed a phytochemical screening test of the leaves extracts following standard phytochemical screening protocols. We next examined the anxiolytic and sedative activity of crude methanol (TIME), ethyl acetate (TIEAE) and n-Hexane (TIHE) extract of Tragia involucrata L. leaves using mouse behavioral models such as elevated plus-maze test and pentobarbital-induced sleeping time test, respectively. Likewise, we evaluated the analgesic activity using acetic acid induced writhing test and formalin induced paw licking test. Additionally, we performed a quantitative analysis of heavy metals content of Tragia involucrata L. leaves by overnight digestion in concentrated nitric acid (HNO3).

RESULTS

Phytochemical screening demonstrated that TIME, TIEAE and TIHE contain flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, terpenoids and sterols. Administration of these extracts resulted in higher number of open arm entry, lower number of close arm entry and higher time spent in open arm compared to control treatment (p < 0.05). Moreover, these treatments decreased the onset of sleep time and increased the duration of sleep compared to control treated mice (all p < 0.05). Likewise, extracts treated mice exhibited decreased number of writhing as well as lower acute phase and late phase duration compared to control treatment (all p < 0.05). The average level of As and Fe in Tragia involucrata L. leaves was 5.16 ± 0.012 ppm and 2.76 ± 0.015 ppm, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Results from this study support that Tragia involucrata L. leaves extracts exhibit an anxiolytic, sedative and analgesic activity in mice.

Oral treatments with a flavonoid-enriched fraction from Cecropia hololeuca and with rutin reduce articular pain and inflammation in murine zymosan-induced arthritis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cecropia Loefl. species (Urticaceae) are widely spread across the rainforest in tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America. Inhabitants of different regions of Brazil employ leaves, fruits and sprouts of Cecropia hololeuca Miq. mainly as anti-inflammatory, anti-asthmatic, expectorant, fever suppressant, and against cough.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of an aqueous leaf extract of C. hololeuca in a murine model of zymosan-induced arthritis (ZIA) and characterize compounds contributing to these effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The crude aqueous extract of C. hololeuca (CAE) was obtained by infusion, screened for antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities, and fractionated (solvent partition; RP-2 and Sephadex G-25 column chromatography), yielding fractions that were chemically and pharmacologically investigated. TLC, HPLC-DAD, HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS and NMR analyses were peformed. The antinociceptive activity was assessed by means of acetic acid-induced writhing, hot-plate and rota-rod tests. ZIA was used to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of oral treatment with CAE, butanolic (BF) and aqueous fraction (AF), as well as the fractions obtained from BF (F2, F2-A and F2-B). Rutin, a flavonoid found in C. hololeuca, was also tested. Mechanical hypernociception, joint edema, local neutrophil recruitment and articular TNF-α quantification were performed to measure the severity of arthritis and identify the anti-inflammatory potential of C. hololeuca.

RESULTS

CAE (0.03-1 g/kg, p.o.) showed a dose-related inhibitory effect on acetic acid-induced writhing test, but did not change the pain latency in the hotplate test, nor the first fall time on the rota-rod test. In addition, CAE (1 g/kg, p.o.) inhibited by 65% the mechanical hypernociception, 46% the joint edema, 54% the neutrophil recruitment and 53% the articular TNF-α concentration levels in ZIA. BF (0.4 g/kg, p.o.), AF (0.6 g/kg), F2 (0.1 g/kg) and F2-A (0.045 g/kg), but not F2-B (0.055 g/kg), inhibited the mechanical hypernociception, joint edema and neutrophil recruitment in ZIA. Rutin (0.001-0.03 g/kg, p.o.) produced dose-related inhibitory effects in the mechanical hypernociception, joint edema and neutrophil recruitment, and at 0.03 g/kg also inhibited articular TNF-α synthesis after intra-articular zymosan injection. Isoorientin, isovitexin, rutin and isoquercitrin were identified in the most active fraction (F2-A), along with luteolin and apigenin derivatives, tentatively identified as isoorientin-2″-O-glucoside and isovitexin-2″-O-glucoside.

CONCLUSION

This study corroborates the popular use by oral route of aqueous preparations of C. hololeuca against joint inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Our results demonstrated for the first time that oral administration of rutin shows antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects in ZIA, indicating that this flavonoid is one of the immunomodulatory compounds involved in the anti-arthritic activity of C. hololeuca.

Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the isatin derivative (Z)-2-(5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-N-phenyl-hydrazinecarbothioamide in mice

Several isatin derivatives have shown important biological activities, which have attracted interest from researchers. For this reason, the present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the isatin derivative (Z)-2-(5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-N-phenyl-hydrazinecarbothioamide (COPHCT) in mice. Three doses of this compound were tested: 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/kg. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model and the zymosan-induced air pouch model. The evaluation of the antinociceptive effect was performed through the formalin test and the acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing test. The paw edema assay demonstrated that all doses of the compound showed a significant reduction of the edema in the second hour evaluated, but a better response was observed in the fourth hour. The zymosan-induced air pouch model indicated that the compound, in all doses, significantly reduced leukocyte migration and total protein concentration levels. In the formalin test, the doses 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/kg of COPHCT showed activity only in the second phase, with reduction in paw pain time of 73.61, 79.46, and 73.85%, respectively. The number of abdominal writhings decreased with the increasing dose, but only 5.0 mg/kg COPHCT exhibited a significant response, with a reduction of 24.88%. These results demonstrated the ability of this compound to interfere in the anti-inflammatory activity of edema, vascular permeability, and cell migration. In addition, its possible antinociceptive effect may be related to the dose used.

Anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanol extract of Arenga pinnata (Wurmb) Merr. fruit

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Arenga pinnata (Wurmb) Merr. is a medicinal and edible plant belonging to family Palmae. The fruits of this plant were used in traditional folk medicine due to its analgesia and anti-inflammatory activities. This study aimed to investigate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and the mechanism of the ethanol extract of A. pinnata (Wurmb) Merr. fruit (EAF) on different experimental models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the chromatographic profile and to analyze the composition of EAF. In the acute toxicity test, all mice were orally administered EAF at a maximum dosage of 26 g/kg and were then monitored for 14 days. The potential analgesic activity of EAF was evaluated by using animal pain models, namely the acetic acid-induced writhing test and the hot plate test in mice. The underlying mechanisms of analgesia were determined by pretreating with naloxone, capsaicin and cinnamaldehyde to evaluate the involvement of the opioid system and transient receptor potential channels (TRP channels). The anti-inflammatory activity of EAF was evaluated by using the following inflammatory animal models: xylene-induced ear edema in mice and Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced paw swelling in rats. EAF was orally administered at the doses of 1.625, 3.25 and 6.5 g/kg in mice and 1.125, 2.25 and 4.5 g/kg in rats. The underlying mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits and real time-PCR used to measure the expression levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Western blot analysis was used to determine the expression levels of proteins related to the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathways in paw tissues.

RESULTS

Five compounds, namely (5-(hydroxymethyl) furan-2-yl) methanediol,4'-hydroxy-N-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzoyl)-3',5'-dimethoxybenzamide, (+)-lyonirenisol-3a-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, (-)-lyonirenisol-3a-O-β-glucopyranoside and liquiritin, were firstly identified from A. pinnata (Wurmb) Merr. fruit by HPLC-UV analysis. In the acute toxicity test, no treatment-related toxicological signs or mortality was observed in mice administered doses up to 26 g/kg. Bodyweight was not obviously different among the treatment groups and the vehicle group. EAF significantly inhibited the pain response induced by acetic acid and increased the latency time in the hot plate test in mice. The anti-nociception effect of EAF in the formalin test was not alleviated by pretreatment with naloxone. However, the nociception induced by injection with capsaicin and cinnamaldehyde was significantly reduced by EAF. Compared with vehicle treatment, EAF significantly inhibited the formation of xylene-induced ear edema and CFA adjuvant-induced paw swelling. EAF markedly inhibited the production of IL-1β, TNF-α, PGE₂ and IL-6 induced by CFA in paw tissues. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of IKKα, IKKβ, IκBα, p38, ERK1/2, and JNK and the nuclear translation of NF-κB p65 induced by CFA in paw tissues were significantly inhibited by EAF treatment compared with vehicle treatment.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, this study provides pharmacological evidence for the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of EAF and the underlying mechanism, suggesting that EAF might be a potential candidate for reducing pain and inflammatory disorders.

Tabernaemontana catharinensis leaves exhibit topical anti-inflammatory activity without causing toxicity

BACKGROUND

Tabernaemontana catharinensis, popularly known as snake skin, has been empirically used as an anti-inflammatory to treat cutaneous skin disorders. However, no study proves its effectiveness as a topical anti-inflammatory.

STUDY DESIGN

We investigated the topical anti-inflammatory effect of T.catharinensis leaves crude extract (TcE) in irritant contact dermatitis models in mice and its preliminary toxicity profile.

METHODS

The topical anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated by ear thickness measurement, inflammatory cell infiltration (MPO activity measurement and histological procedure) and cytokines levels. TcE qualitative phytochemical analysis was performed by UHPLC-ESI-HRMS and the TcE effect (therapeutic dose; 10 µg/ear) on preliminary toxicological parameters was also evaluated (on the 14° day of experiment).

RESULTS

TcE (10 μg/ear) prevented the development of ear edema induced by cinnamaldehyde, capsaicin, arachidonic acid, phenol, and croton oil with maximum inhibition of 100% to cinnamaldehyde, arachidonic acid, phenol, and croton oil and 75 ± 6% to capsaicin. Besides, the TcE (10 μg/ear) also prevented the increase of MPO activity by 96 ± 2%, 48 ± 7%, 100%, 87 ± 8%, and 93 ± 4%, respectively, to the same irritant agents. The positive controls also prevented both ear edema and the increased of MPO activity by 100% and 42 ± 8% (HC-030031), 54 ± 6% and 80 ± 4% (SB-366791), 100% and 54 ± 5% (indomethacin), 100% and 80 ± 4% (dexamethasone in skin inflammation model induced by phenol) and 100% and 97 ± 3% (dexamethasone in inflammation model induced by croton oil), respectively. TcE also prevented the inflammatory cells infiltration and the increase of MIP-2, IL-1β and TNF-α levels irritant agents-induced. TcE topical anti-inflammatory effect may be attributed to the combined effect of indole alkaloids, terpenes, and phenolic compounds found in the extract and identified by dereplication method. The TcE' therapeutic dose proved to be safe in preliminary toxicological tests.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that TcE could be an interesting strategy for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Nasturtium officinale R. Br. effectively reduces the skin inflammation induced by croton oil via glucocorticoid receptor-dependent and NF-κB pathways without causing toxicological effects in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Inflammatory skin diseases treatments currently used cause adverse effects. Nasturtium officinale (watercress) is used popularly as an anti-inflammatory. However, until now, no study proved its effectiveness as a topical treatment to inflammatory skin diseases. The topical anti-inflammatory activity of N. officinale crude extract leaves (NoE) on an irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) model croton oil-induced in mice was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ICD models were induced by a single (1 mg/ear; acute) or repeated (0.4 mg/ear; chronic; 9 days total) croton oil application. NoE and dexamethasone solutions' (diluted in acetone; 20 μL/ear) or NoE gel, dexamethasone gel and base gel (15 mg/ear) were topically applied immediately after croton oil application. The NoE topical anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated for inflammatory parameters (ear edema, inflammatory cells infiltration, and inflammatory cytokines levels). NoE topical anti-inflammatory mechanism (NF-κB pathway and effect glucocorticoid-like) were assessed by western blot and ear edema analyses, respectively. UHPLC-MS/MS chromatography, gels accelerated stability and preliminary study of adverse effects was also performed.

RESULTS

UHPLC-MS/MS of the NoE revealed the presence of coumaric acid, rutin, and ferulic acid. NoE gels stability study showed no relevant changes at low temperature. NoE, dexamethasone, NoE gel and dexamethasone gel inhibited the ear edema croton oil-induced by 82 ± 6% (1 mg/ear), 99 ± 1% (0.1 mg/ear), 81 ± 8% (3%) and 70 ± 6% (0.5%) for the acute model, and 49 ± 7% (1 mg/ear), 80 ± 4% (0.1 mg/ear), 41 ± 8% (3%) and 46 ± 14% (0.5%) for the chronic model, respectively. The same treatments also reduced the inflammatory cells infiltration by 62 ± 3% (1 mg/ear), 97 ± 2% (0.1 mg/ear), 60 ± 3% (3%) and 66 ± 6% (0.5%) for the acute model, respectively, and 25 ± 8% (1 mg/ear) to NoE and 83 ± 13% to dexamethasone to the chronic model. NoE and NoE gel reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines levels (acute ICD model) by 62 ± 5% and 71 ± 3% (MIP-2) and 32 ± 3% and 44 ± 4% (IL-1β), while dexamethasone solution's and gel reduced by 79 ± 7% and 44 ± 4% to MIP-2 and 98 ± 2% and 83 ± 9% to IL-1β, respectively. NoE' and dexamethasone' solutions inhibited the reduction of IkB-α protein expression induced by croton oil by 100% and 80 ± 14%, respectively. Besides, the mifepristone (glucocorticoid receptor antagonist) pre-treatment prevented the topical anti-edematogenic effect of NoE' and dexamethasone' solutions by 61 ± 5% to NoE and 78 ± 16% to dexamethasone. The repeated topical application of NoE did not cause adverse effects.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest the N. officinale use in the cutaneous inflammatory process treatment and demonstrate the NoE potential to develop a promising topical anti-inflammatory agent to treat inflammatory disorders.

Intestinal Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Aqueous Extract from Ipomoea asarifolia in DNBS-Induced Colitis in Rats

Inflammatory bowel disease is triggered by an uncontrolled immune response associated with genetic, environmental, and intestinal microbiota imbalance. Ipomoea asarifolia (IA), popularly known as “salsa” or “brave salsa”, belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. The aim of this approach was to study the preventive effect of IA aqueous extract in 2,4-dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS)-induced colitis in rats. Rats pretreated with IA extract or sulfasalazine (SSZ) received intracolonic instillation of DNBS in 50% ethanol (v/v). IA extract presented a protective effect against intestinal inflammation, with improvement in the disease activity index and macroscopic damage. IA or SSZ significantly reduced myeloperoxidase activity, and also down-regulation of the gene expression of JNK1, NF-κβ-p65, STAT3, and decreased levels of TNFα, IL-1β, and increased IL-10, associated with a significant improvement of oxidative stress, in addition to a reduction in MDA and an increase of glutathione in colonic tissue. The protective effect of the extract was also confirmed in histological evaluation, showing preservation of the colonic cytoarchitecture. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed down-regulation of NF-κβ-p65, iNOS, IL-17, and up-regulation of SOCs-1 and MUC-2. IA extract presents antioxidant and anti-inflammatory intestinal properties, and proved to be a potential application for preventing damage induced by DNBS.

Phytochemical Analysis by HPLC-HRESI-MS and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Tabernaemontana catharinensis

Tabernaemontana catharinensis (Apocynaceae) has been popularly used by folk medicine because of its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiophidic properties. This study aims to analyze the flavonoids composition of the hydroethanolic extract and of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and butanol (BuOH) fractions of T. catharinensis leaves, as well as to evaluate their anti-inflammatory activity using in vivo models. The phytochemical profile, determined by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–High-Resolution Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC–HRESI-MS), showed the presence of flavonoids mainly having an isorhamnetin nucleus. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in carrageenan-induced paw edema (pre- and post-treatment) with oral administration of a T. catharinensis hydroethanolic extract (50, 100, and 150 mg/kg) and of organic fractions (50 mg/kg). The extract and fractions showed antiedematogenic activity by decreasing myeloperoxidase (MPO) production. In the zymosan-air-pouch model, the extract and fractions inhibited leukocyte migration and significantly decreased the levels of various proteins, such as MPO, interleukin (IL)-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. The cytotoxicity was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, which revealed no cytotoxicity of the extract and the fractions. These results suggest that the hydroethanolic extract and organic fractions of T. catharinensis leaves have sufficient anti-inflammatory activity to support the popular use of this plant in the treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Aspidosperma pyrifolium Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties: An Experimental Study in Mice with Peritonitis Induced by Tityus serrulatus Venom or Carrageenan

Scorpions of the genus Tityus are responsible for the majority of envenomation in Brazil, the Tityus serrulatus species being the most common and dangerous in South America. In this approach, we have investigated the ability of the aqueous extract from the leaves of Aspidosperma pyrifolium in reducing carrageenan-induced inflammation and the inflammation induced by T. serrulatus envenomation in mice. We also evaluated the cytotoxic effects of this extract, using the 3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium (MTT) assay and the results revealed that the extract is safe. Analysis by High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Diode Array Detector (HPLC-DAD) and Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Mass Spectrometry with Diode Array Detection (LC-DAD-MS) showed one major chemical component, the flavonoid rutin and phenolics compounds. For in vivo studies in carrageenan-induced peritonitis model, mice received extracts, dexamethasone, rutin or saline, before administration of carrageenan. For venom-induced inflammation model, animals received T. serrulatus venom and were, simultaneously, treated with extracts, antivenom, rutin or saline. The extract and rutin showed a reduction in the cell migration into the peritoneal cavity, and in the same way the envenomated animals also showed reduction of edema, inflammatory cell infiltration and vasodilation in lungs. This is an original study revealing the potential action of A. pyrifolium against inflammation caused by Tityus serrulatus venom and carrageenan, revealing that this extract and its bioactive molecules, specifically rutin, may present potential anti-inflammatory application.