Antioxidant capacity of the leaf extract obtained from Arrabidaea chica cultivated in Southern Brazil

Review on the pharmacological effects and pharmacokinetics of scutellarein

Scutellarein is a flavonoid from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi that has been shown to have a variety of pharmacological activities. This review aims to summarize the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic studies on scutellarein and provide useful information for relevant scholars. Pharmacological studies indicate that scutellarein possesses a diverse range of pharmacological properties, including but not limited to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anticancer, and cardiovascular protective effects. Further investigation reveals that the pharmacological effects of scutellarein are driven by multiple mechanisms. These mechanisms encompass the scavenging of free radicals, inhibition of the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways and expression of inflammatory mediators, inhibition of the activity of crucial viral proteins, suppression of gluconeogenesis, amelioration of insulin resistance, improvement of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, induction of apoptosis in cancer cells, and prevention of myocardial hypertrophy, among others. In summary, these pharmacological studies suggest that scutellarein holds promise for the treatment of various diseases. It is imperative to conduct clinical studies to further elucidate the therapeutic effects of scutellarein. However, it is worth noting that studies on the pharmacokinetics reveal an inhibitory effect of scutellarein on uridine 5'-diphosphate glucuronide transferases and cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially posing safety risks.

Isolation and Identification of Pigment-Producing Endophytic Fungi from the Amazonian Species Fridericia chica

Pigments of fungal origin have aroused increasing interest in the food dye and cosmetic industries since the global demand for natural dyes has grown. Endophytic microorganisms are a source of bioactive compounds, and Amazonian plant species can harbor fungi with a wide range of biotechnological applications. Popularly known in Brazil as crajiru, Fridericia chica is a medicinal plant that produces a red pigment. In this study, a total of 121 fungi were isolated in potato dextrose agar from three plants. We identified nine pigment-producing endophytic fungi isolated from branches and leaves of F. chica. The isolates that showed pigment production in solid media were molecularly identified via multilocus analysis as Aspergillus welwitschiae, A. sydowii, Curvularia sp., Diaporthe cerradensis (two strains), Hypoxylon investiens, Neoscytalidium sp. (two strains) and Penicillium rubens. These isolates were subjected to submerged fermentation in two culture media to obtain metabolic extracts. The extracts obtained were analyzed in terms of their absorbance between 400 and 700 nm. The pigmented extract produced by H. investiens in medium containing yeast extract showed maximum absorbance in the red absorption range (UA700 = 0.550) and significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. This isolate can thus be considered a new source of extracellular pigment.

Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Endophytic Fungi Associated with Arrabidaea chica (Bignoniaceae)

The endophytic fungal community of the Amazonian medicinal plant Arrabidaea chica (Bignoniaceae) was evaluated based on the hypothesis that microbial communities associated with plant species in the Amazon region may produce metabolites with interesting bioactive properties. Therefore, the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the fungal extracts were investigated. A total of 107 endophytic fungi were grown in liquid medium and the metabolites were extracted with ethyl acetate. In the screening of fungal extracts for antimicrobial activity, the fungus identified as Botryosphaeria mamane CF2-13 was the most promising, with activity against E. coli, S. epidermidis, P. mirabilis, B. subtilis, S. marcescens, K. pneumoniae, S. enterica, A. brasiliensis, C. albicans, C. tropicalis and, especially, against S. aureus and C. parapsilosis (MIC = 0.312 mg/mL). Screening for antioxidant potential using the DPPH elimination assay showed that the Colletotrichum sp. CG1-7 endophyte extract exhibited potential activity with an EC50 of 11 µg/mL, which is equivalent to quercetin (8 µg/mL). The FRAP method confirmed the antioxidant potential of the fungal extracts. The presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the active extracts was confirmed using TLC. These results indicate that two of the fungi isolated from A. chica exhibit significant antimicrobial and antioxidant potential.

Evaluation of the gastroprotective and ulcer healing properties by Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L.G. Lohmann hydroethanolic extract of leaves

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L.G. Lohmann (Bignoniaceae), is a climber native to Brazil, found in all Brazilian biomes. It is mostly known in Brazil as "carajiru," and home medicines made from the leaves have been used to cure disorders including stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of the study was to investigate the F. chica hydroethanolic extract of leaves (HEFc) preventative and curative antiulcer gastrointestinal efficacy as well as the mechanisms of action using in vivo rodent models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

F. chica was collected in the municipality of Juína, Mato Grosso, and its leaves were used to prepare the extract by maceration technique (70% hydroethanol in the 1:10 ratio, w/v) to obtain the HEFc. The chromatographic analysis of HEFc was carried out by High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photo Diode Array-Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS)- LCQ Fleet™ system. To determine the potential antiulcer potential of HEFc (1, 5 and 20 mg/kg, p.o.), the gastroprotective activity was assessed in various animal models of stomach ulcers caused by acidified ethanol, water constraint stress, indomethacin, (acute), and acid acetic (chronic). Additionally, the prokinetic properties of the HEFC were assessed in mice. The gastroprotective underlying mechanisms were evaluated by the histopathological analysis and determination of gastric secretion (volume, free and total acidity), gastric barrier mucus, activation of PGs, NO, K ⁺_ATP channels, α₂-adrenoceptor, antioxidant activity (GSH, MPO and MDA), NO and mucosal cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10) levels.

RESULTS

The chemical composition of HEFc was analyzed and apigenin, scutellarin, and carajurone were identified. HEFc (1, 5 and 20 mg/kg) showed effect against acute ulcers induced by HCl/EtOH with a reduction in the ulcerated area of 64.41% (p < 0.001), 54.23% (p < 0.01), 38.71% (p < 0.01), respectively. In the indomethacin experiment, there was no change in the doses tested, whereas in the water immersion restraint stress ulcer there was a reduction of lesions at doses of 1, 5, and 20 mg/kg by 80.34% (p < 0.001), 68.46% (p < 0.01) and 52.04% (p < 0.01). HEFc increased the mucus production at doses of 1 and 20 mg/kg in 28.14% (p < 0.05) and 38.36% (p < 0.01), respectively. In the pyloric ligation-induced model of gastric ulceration, the HEFc decreased the total acidity in all doses by 54.23%, 65.08%, and 44.40% (p < 0.05) and gastric secretory volume in 38.47% at dose of 1 mg/kg (p < 0,05) and increased the free acidity at the dose of 5 mg/kg by 11.86% (p < 0.05). The administration of EHFc (1 mg/kg) showed a gastroprotective effect possibly by stimulating the release of prostaglandins and activating K⁺_ATP channels and α_2-adrenoreceptors. Also, the gastroprotective effect of HEFc involved an increase in CAT and GSH activities, and a reduction in MPO activity and MDA levels. In the chronic gastric ulcer model, the HEFc (1, 5 and 20 mg/kg) decreased the ulcerated area significantly (p < 0.001) at all doses by 71.37%, 91.00%, and 93.46%, respectively. In the histological analysis, HEFc promoted the healing of gastric lesions by stimulating the formation of granulation tissue and consequently epithelialization. On the other hand, regarding the effect of HEFc on gastric emptying and intestinal transit, it was observed that the extract did not alter gastric emptying, but there was an increase in intestinal transit at the dose of 1 mg/kg (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

These outcomes confirmed the advantages of Fridericia chica leaves for the treatment of stomach ulcers, which are well-known. HEFc was discovered to have antiulcer characteristics through multitarget pathways, which might be related to an increase in stomach defense mechanisms and a decrease in defensive factor. HEFc can be regarded as a potential new antiulcer herbal remedy because of its antiulcer properties, which may be attributed to the mixture of flavonoids, apigenin, scutellarin and carajurone.

Validation of a New HPLC-DAD Method to Quantify 3-Deoxyanthocyanidins Based on Carajurin in Medicinal Plants and for Chemical Ecology Studies

Anthocyanidins are found in nature mainly as pelargonidin, cyanidin, peonidin, delphinidin, petunidin, and malvidin derivatives. These compounds are found free or as glycoside derivatives which are responsible for the color (red, blue, and violet) of some foods and are responsible for attracting seed dispersers. They are grouped into 3-hydroxyanthocyanidins, 3-deoxyanthocyanidins (3D-anth), and O-methylated anthocyanidins. A new method was developed and validated to quantify 3D-anth in plant-rich extracts. To test the new method, Arrabidaea chica Verlot was selected as it is widely used in folk medicine, and it is rich in 3D-anth. The new method was developed by HPLC-DAD and expressed 3D-anth as carajurin content. Carajurin was chosen as the reference standard due to its role as a biological marker for the antileishmanial activity for A. chica. The selected method used a silica-based phenyl column, a mobile phase composed of potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer, acetonitrile, and methanol, in a gradient elution mode and detection at 480 nm. The method reliability was confirmed by verifying selectivity, linearity, precision, recovery, and robustness. This method contributes to quality control and development of a possible active pharmaceutical ingredient from A. chica as well as it can be used to evaluate 3D-anth in plant extracts with chemical ecology interest.

Natural Flavonoid Derivatives Have Pan-Coronavirus Antiviral Activity

The SARS-CoV-2 protease (3CLpro) is one of the key targets for the development of efficacious drugs for COVID-19 treatment due to its essential role in the life cycle of the virus and exhibits high conservation among coronaviruses. Recent studies have shown that flavonoids, which are small natural molecules, have antiviral activity against coronaviruses (CoVs), including SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we identified the docking sites and binding affinity of several natural compounds, similar to flavonoids, and investigated their inhibitory activity towards 3CLpro enzymatic activity. The selected compounds were then tested in vitro for their cytotoxicity, for antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, and the replication of other coronaviruses in different cell lines. Our results showed that Baicalein (100 μg/mL) exerted strong 3CLpro activity inhibition (>90%), whereas Hispidulin and Morin displayed partial inhibition. Moreover, Baicalein, up to 25 μg/mL, hindered >50% of SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 cultures. Lastly, Baicalein displayed antiviral activity against alphacoronavirus (Feline-CoV) and betacoronavirus (Bovine-CoV and HCoV-OC43) in the cell lines. Our study confirmed the antiviral activity of Baicalein against SARS-CoV-2 and demonstrated clear evidence of its pan-coronaviral activity.

Cytoprotective, Antiproliferative, and Anti-Oxidant Potential of the Hydroethanolic Extract of Fridericia chica Leaves on Human Cancer Cell Lines Exposed to α- and β-Zearalenol

Fridericia chica (Bignoniaceae) is a Colombian Caribbean plant with numerous health benefits, including properties such as wound healing, immune system stimulation, and antioxidant capacity, among others. Mycotoxins alpha-zearalenol (α-ZEL) and beta-zearalenol (β-ZEL) are phase I metabolites of zearalenone, a natural product involved in endocrine disruption and cell proliferation processes. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic potential of the hydroethanolic extract of F. chica leaves (HEFc) and determine their protective effects against proliferation induced by α-ZEL and β-ZEL on human hepatoma HepG2, lung cancer Calu-1, and primary normal human epidermal keratinocytes, neonatal (HEKn). The cytotoxicity of HEFc was measured in a range from 4 to 1000 µg/mL and from 0.4 to 100 μM for both α-ZEL and β-ZEL. Cell production of intracellular ROS was monitored using the H2-DCFDA probe. The cells exposed to HEFc presented IC50 of 128, 249, and 602 µg/mL for the HepG2, Calu-1, and HEKn cells, respectively. A greater selectivity was seen in HepG2 cells [selectivity index (SI) = 3.5] than in Calu-1 cells (SI = 2.4). Cells treated with mycotoxins remained viable during the first day, and cell proliferation increased at low tested concentrations (0.4-6.3 µM) in all three cell lines. However, after 48 h treatment, cells exposed to 50 and 100 µM of α-ZEL and β-ZEL displayed decreased viability. HEFc at 16 µg/mL was able to give some protection against cytotoxicity induced by high concentrations of β-ZEL in HepG2, reducing also cell proliferation elicited at low levels of α-ZEL and β-ZEL. ROS production was not observed in cells treated with this HEFc concentration; however, it prevented ROS formation induced by treatment with 50 µM α-ZEL or β-ZEL. In summary, HEFc isolated from plants grown in northern Colombia displayed promising results against cell proliferation and oxidative stress caused by mycotoxins.

Anti-Mayaro virus activity of a hydroethanolic extract from Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L. G. Lohmann leaves

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mayaro fever is a neglected tropical disease. The region of the most significant circulation of the Mayaro virus (MAYV) is the Amazon rainforest, situated in remote areas that are difficult to access and where medicine is scarce. Thus, the regional population uses plants as an alternative for the treatment of various diseases. Fridericia chica is an endemic plant of tropical regions used in traditional medicine to treat fever, malaise, inflammation, and infectious diseases such as hepatitis B. However, its antiviral activity is poorly understood.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the anti-MAYV activity of the hydroethanolic extract of the leaves of Fridericia chica (HEFc) in mammalian cells and its possible mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antiviral activity of HEFc was studied using Vero cell lines against MAYV. The cytotoxicity and antiviral activity of the extract were evaluated by the 3-(4, 5- dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The overall antiviral activity was confirmed by the plaque forming units (PFU) method. Then, the effects of HEFc on MAYV multiplication kinetics, virus adsorption, penetration, and post-penetration, and its virucidal activity were determined in Vero cells using standard experimental procedures.

RESULTS

HEFc exerted a effect against viral infection in Vero cells at a non-cytotoxic concentration, and no virion was detected in the supernatant in a dose-dependent and selective manner. HEFc inhibited MAYV in the early and late stages of the viral multiplication cycle. The extract showed significant virucidal activity at low concentrations and did not affect adsorption or viral internalization stages. In addition, HEFc reduced virions at all post-infection times investigated.

CONCLUSIONS

HEFc has good antiviral activity against MAYV, acting directly on the viral particles. This plant extract possesses an excellent and promising potential for developing effective herbal antiviral drugs.

Scavenging Capacity of Extracts of Arrabidaea chica Leaves from the Amazonia against ROS and RNS of Physiological and Food Relevance

Arrabidaea chica, a medicinal plant found in the Amazon rainforest, is a promising source of bioactive compounds which can be used to inhibit oxidative damage in both food and biological systems. In this study, the in vitro scavenging capacity of characterized extracts of A. chica leaves, obtained with green solvents of different polarities [water, ethanol, and ethanol/water (1:1, v/v)] through ultrasound-assisted extraction, was investigated against reactive oxygen (ROS) and nitrogen (RNS) species, namely superoxide anion radicals (O₂^•−), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), and peroxynitrite anion (ONOO⁻). The extract obtained with ethanol–water presented about three times more phenolic compound contents (11.8 mg/g) than ethanol and water extracts (3.8 and 3.6 mg/g, respectively), with scutellarein being the major compound (6.76 mg/g). All extracts showed high scavenging efficiency against the tested ROS and RNS, in a concentration-dependent manner with low IC₅₀ values, and the ethanol–water extract was the most effective one. In addition, all the extracts were five times more efficient against ROO^• than Trolox. Therefore, the extracts from A. chica leaves exhibited high promising antioxidant potential to be used against oxidative damage in food and physiological systems.

High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry Identification and Characterization of Flavonoids from Fridericia chica Leaves Extract with Anti-Arbovirus Activity

Plant extracts are complex mixtures that are difficult to characterize, and mass spectrometry is one of the main techniques currently used in dereplication processes. Fridericia chica is a species with medicinal uses in Latin American countries, used in the treatment of inflammatory and infectious diseases. Extracts of this plant species are characterized by the presence of anthocyanidins. In this study, using high-resolution mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography, it was possible to determine the molecular formula of thirty-nine flavonoids. Fragmentation analysis, ultraviolet spectrum and nuclear magnetic resonance data allowed the partial characterization of the structures of these compounds. The spectral dataset allowed the identification of a series of flavones in addition to the desoxyanthocyanidins common in extracts of the species. The occurrence of some of the proposed structures is uncommon in extracts of species of the Bignoniaceae family, and they are reported for the first time in the extract of this species. Quantitative analyses of total flavonoids confirmed the high content of these constituents in the species, with 4.09 ± 0.34 mg/g of dry plant material. The extract under study showed low in vitro cytotoxicity with CC50 ≥ 296.7 ± 1.4 µg/mL for Vero, LLC-MK2 and MRC-5 cell lines. In antiviral activity assays, inhibition of the cytopathic effects of Dengue, Zika and Mayaro viruses was observed, with EC50 values ranging between 30.1 and 40.9 µg/mL. The best result was observed against the Mayaro virus, with an EC50 of 30.1 µg/mL.

Therapeutic Potential of Leaves from Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L. G. Lohmann: Botanical Aspects, Phytochemical and Biological, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant and Healing Action

Plants of the species Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L. G. Lohmann (Bignoniaceae), which are widely distributed in Brazil and named crajiru in the state of Amazonas, are known in folk medicine as a traditional medicine in the form of a tea for the treatment of intestinal colic, diarrhea, and anemia, among other diseases. The chemical analysis of extracts of the leaves has identified phenolic compounds, a class of secondary metabolites that provide defense for plants and benefits to the health of humans. Several studies have shown the therapeutic efficacy of F. chica extracts, with antitumor, antiviral, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities being among the therapeutic applications already proven. The healing action of F. chica leaf extract has been demonstrated in several experimental models, and shows the ability to favor the proliferation of fibroblasts, which is essential for tissue repair. The anti-inflammatory activity of F. chica has been clearly demonstrated by several authors, who suggest that it is related to the presence of 3-deoxyanthocyanidins, which is capable of inhibiting pro-inflammatory pathways such as the kappa B (NF-kB) nuclear transcription factor pathway. Another important effect attributed to this species is the antioxidant effect, attributed to phenolic compounds interrupting chain reactions caused by free radicals and donating hydrogen atoms or electrons. In conclusion, the species Fridericia chica has great therapeutic potential, which is detailed in this paper with the objective of encouraging new research and promoting the sum of efforts for the inclusion of herbal medicines in health systems around the world.

Antioxidant and hepatopreventive effects of Cassia angustifolia extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

The present study aimed to investigate the preventive effects of methanol fraction from Cassia angustifolia leaf extract (MECA), associated with its phytochemical content, on CCl₄-induced hepatic toxicity in adult rats. In the controls, CCl₄ induced an increase of serum biochemical parameters and triggered oxidative stress in the liver. MECA caused significant reductions in CCl₄-elevated levels of hepatic markers, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein and increased the level of high-density lipoprotein compared to the CCl₄ group. Moreover, pretreatment with the MECA produced significant reductions in lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) and protein carbonyl level in liver tissues as compared with the untreated group. The formation of pathological hepatic lesions was strongly prevented by MECA. Overall, this study suggests that administration of MECA has a high potential to quench free radicals and alleviate CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Protective Effects of the Hydroethanolic Extract of Fridericia chica on Undifferentiated Human Neuroblastoma Cells Exposed to α-Zearalenol (α-ZEL) and β-Zearalenol (β-ZEL)

Fridericia chica (Bignoniaceae) is a traditional medicinal plant. The aim of this research was to determine the protective effects of the hydroethanolic extract from the F. chica leaves (HEFc) against the cytotoxicity of zearalenone (α-ZEL) and β-ZEL on SH-SY5Y cells. Free radical scavenging activity of HEFc was evaluated using the DPPH method. The cytotoxicity of both zearalenone metabolites and HEFc was examined using MTT test, as was the cytoprotective effects of the HEFc on cells treated with these mycotoxins. The chemical composition of HEFc was determined using UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. HEFc elicited good DPPH radical scavenging activity following a concentration-dependent relationship. Cells exposed to α-ZEL exhibited a viability ˂50% after 48 h of treatment (25 and 50 µM), while those exposed to β-ZEL showed viability ˂50% (100 µM) and ˂25% (25-100 µM) after 24 and 48 h of exposure, respectively. HEFc showed a significant increase in cell viability after exposure to α-ZEL (25 and 50 µM) and β-ZEL (6-100 µM) (p < 0.05). UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analyses allowed the identification of 10 phytochemical components in the HEFc. In short, the hydroethanolic extract of F. chica grown in Colombian Caribbean can protect against the effects of mycotoxins and it is a valuable source of compounds with antioxidant properties.

Antileishmanial Activity of Flavones-Rich Fraction From Arrabidaea chica Verlot (Bignoniaceae)

Acknowledging the need of identifying new compounds for the treatment of leishmaniasis, this study aimed to evaluate, from in vitro trials, the activity of flavones from Arrabidaea chica against L. amazonensis. The chromatographic profiles of the hydroethanolic extract and a flavone-rich fraction (ACFF) from A. chica were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode-array UV-Vis detector (HPLC-DAD-UV) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry in tandem (LC-ESI-MS-MS). The flavones luteolin (1) and apigenin (2), isolated from chromatographic techniques and identified by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance of ¹H and ¹³C, were also quantified in ACFF, showing 190.7 mg/g and apigenin 12.4 mg/g, respectively. The other flavones were identified by comparing their spectroscopic data with those of the literature. The in vitro activity was assayed against promastigotes and intramacrophagic amastigote forms of L. amazonensis. Cytotoxicity tests were performed with peritoneal macrophages of BALB/c mice. Nitrite quantification was performed with Griess reagent. Ultrastructural investigations were obtained by transmission electron microscopy. Anti-Leishmania assays indicated that the IC₅₀ values for ACFF, apigenin, and luteolin were obtained at 40.42 ± 0.10 and 31.51 ± 1.13 μg/mL against promastigotes, respectively. ACFF and luteolin have concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. ACFF and luteolin also inhibited the intra-macrophagic parasite (IC₅₀ 3.575 ± 1.13 and 11.78 ± 1.24 μg/mL, respectively), with a selectivity index of 11.44 for ACFF. Promastigotes exposed to ACFF and luteolin exhibited ultrastructural changes, such as intense cytoplasm vacuolization and mitochondrial swelling. These findings data evidence the antileishmanial action of flavone-rich fractions of A. chica against L. amazonensis, encouraging further studies.

Carajurin: a anthocyanidin from Arrabidaea chica as a potential biological marker of antileishmanial activity

Leishmaniasis is a group of neglected tropical diseases whose treatment with antimonials bears limitations and has changed little in over 80 years. Medicinal plants have been evaluated as a therapeutic alternative for leishmaniasis. Arrabidaea chica is popularly used as a wound healing and antiparasitic agent, especially as leishmanicidal agent. This study examined the leishmanicidal activity of a crude extract (ACCE), an anthocyanidin-rich fraction (ACAF), and three isolated anthocyanidins from A. chica: carajurin, 3'-hydroxy-carajurone, and carajurone. We evaluated the antileishmanial activity against promastigote and intracellular amastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis and determined cytotoxicity in BALB/c peritoneal macrophages, as well as nitrite quantification, using the Griess method. Molecular docking was carried out to evaluate interactions of carajurin at the nitric oxide synthase enzyme. All compounds were active against promastigotes after 72 h, with IC₅₀ values of 101.5 ± 0.06 μg/mL for ACCE and 4.976 ± 1.09 μg/mL for ACAF. Anthocyanidins carajurin, 3'-hydroxy-carajurone, and carajurone had IC₅₀ values of 3.66 ± 1.16, 22.70 ± 1.20, and 28.28 ± 0.07 μg/mL, respectively. The cytotoxicity assay after 72 h showed results ranging from 9.640 to 66.74 µg/mL for anthocyanidins. ACAF and carajurin showed selectivity against intracellular amastigote forms (SI> 10), with low cytotoxicity within 24 h, a statistically significant reduction in all infection parameters, and induced nitrite production. Molecular docking studies were developed to understand a possible mechanism of activation of the nitric oxide synthase enzyme, which leads to an increase in the production of nitric oxide observed in the other experiments reported. These results encourage us to suggest carajurin as a biological marker of A. chica.

The aqueous extract of Fridericia chica grown in northern Colombia ameliorates toxicity induced by Tergitol on Caenorhabditis elegans

The aqueous extract of fallen leaves from Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L.G. Lohmann is utilized as a remedy in communities at northern Colombia. Traditional uses include wound healing, gastrointestinal inflammation, leukemia and psoriasis, among others. The aims of this research were to evaluate the potential of the aqueous extract of fallen leaves of F. chica (AEFchica) to inhibit ethoxylated nonylphenol (Tergitol)-induced toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans; and to identify its main components. The pharmacological properties of AEFchica was evaluated using a Tergitol-induced toxicity model in Caenorhabditis elegans. Lethality, locomotion, reproduction, and DAF-16 nuclear translocation were quantified. The chemical composition of AEFchica was carried out using ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. AEFchica induced very little lethality on C. elegans (5.6%) even at high concentrations (10,000 μg/mL). The extract had no effect on locomotion impairing induced by ethoxylated nonylphenol. However, AEFchica (1000 μg/mL) abrogated Tergitol-induced mortality, recovering up to 53.3% of the nematodes from lethality induced by 10 mM Tergitol. Similarly, it also blocked Tergitol-dependent reproduction inhibition (82.1% recovery), as well as DAF-16 nuclear translocation (>95%), suggesting a prominent role on oxidative stress control. The chemical analysis indicated the presence of a great variety of molecules with known antioxidant, metabolic and immune modulator properties, such as hydroxylated methoxy flavones, N-methyl-1-deoxynojirimycin, and rehmaionoside A. In short, the aqueous extract of F. chica protects C. elegans from the deleterious effects of Tergitol on lethality, reproduction and oxidative stress involving DAF-16-mediated pathway. This extract is a promising source of bioactive phytochemicals for multi-target pharmacological purposes.

Polyphenol-enriched extract of Arrabidaea chica used as a dentin pretreatment or incorporated into a total-etching adhesive system: Effects on bonding stability and physical characterization

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the physical properties and the long-term bond strength of a 2.5% polyphenol-enriched extract of Arrabidaea chica (AC) incorporated into both the phosphoric acid and the primer of a three-step total-etch adhesive, or into an aqueous solution as a dentin pretreatment. Fifty dentin surfaces received the treatments (n = 10): CON (control) - application of the three-step adhesive system (Adper Scotchbond Multipurpose, 3M ESPE); WAT - distilled water used as a pretreatment after dentin etching and before application of the adhesive system; ACPA - AC incorporated into the phosphoric acid; ACW - dentin pre-treatment with AC incorporated into an aqueous solution after etching; ACP - AC incorporated into the primer. Microtensile bond strength tests were performed after 24 h, 6 and 12 months of storage. Slices from the resin-dentin interface were obtained for scanning electron microscopy analysis of the hybrid layer. Degree of conversion of AC incorporated into the primer was evaluated. The particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of all the solutions prepared by incorporating AC (phosphoric acid, primer and distilled water) were measured by dynamic light scattering, which brought about changes after incorporation. Degree of conversion of the primer was not affected after incorporating AC. ACP showed lower microtensile bond strength values than the other groups. Bond strength decreased after 6 months of storage, stabilizing at the 12-month evaluation. Therefore, use of AC incorporated into the primer led to lower bond strength values, since AC modified the physical properties (particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential) of the primer, but did not change the degree of conversion. Application of AC as a dentin pretreatment did not affect bond strength or the micromorphological characteristics of the hybrid layer.

Cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity of scutellarein and carajurone-enriched fraction obtained from the hydroethanolic extract of the leaves of Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L.G. Lohmann

The hydroethanolic extract obtained from the dry leaves of Fridericia chica (HEFc) underwent several fractionations by different chromatographic techniques. The ethyl acetate and dichloromethane fraction were subjected to phytochemical analysis, resulting in the identification and isolation of scutellarein (1) and in a fraction rich in carajurone (2). They were tested for cytotoxicity in CHO-K1 and the antibacterial activity and mode of action by in vitro assays. The HEFc and scutellarein (1) presented no cytotoxicity. The results showed good antibacterial effect of HEFc against Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus and moderate activity for Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhimurium. The fraction containing the compound carajurone (2) showed good activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis and moderate activity against Streptococcus pyogenes. Scutellarein (1) showed no activity against the bacteria tested. HEFc antibacterial mode of action appeared to be associated with changes in the permeability of bacterial membranes and nucleotide leakage.

Effect of Arrabidaea chica extract against chemically induced breast cancer in animal model

Purpose:

To examine the effects of Arrabidaa chica (Bignoniacea) extract, a native plant of the Amazon known as crajiru, on a 7,12-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer model in Wistar rats.

Methods:

We compared the response of breast cancer to the oral administration of A. chica extract (ACE) for 16 weeks, associated or not with vincristine. Groups: normal control; DMBA (50mg/kg v.o,) without treatment; DMBA+ACE (300 mg/kg); DMBA+vincristine. 500μg/kg injected i.p; DMBA+ACE+Vincristine 250μg/kg i.p. Imaging by microPET and fluorescence, biochemistry, oxidative stress, hematology and histopathology were used to validate the treatments.

Results:

All animals survived. A gradual weight gain in all groups was observed, with no significant difference (p>0.05). The oral administration of ACE and ACE+vincristine 50% significantly reduced breast tumors incidence examined with PET-18FDG and fluorescence (p<0.001). Significant reduction of serum transaminases, oxidative stress and hematological toxicity were observed in these groups. Antioxidant enzyme levels in breast tissue were significantly higher compared to the DMBA and DMBA+vincristine groups.

Conclusion:

These results demonstrate for the first time that ACE positively influences the treatment of DMBA-induced breast cancer in animal model, inducing a reduction in oxidative stress and chemotherapy toxicity, meaning that ACE may have clinical implication in further studies.

Effects of Extract of Arrabidaea chica Verlot on an Experimental Model of Osteoarthritis

The aim of this study was to analyze the analgesic potential of Arrabidaea chica extract (EHA) as an alternative to osteoarthritis (OA) treatment. Thus, the extract was initially evaluated by the cyclooxygenase inhibition test. The analgesic effect of the extract, in vivo, was also verified in a model of OA induced by sodium monoiodoacetate (2 mg). EHA was administered to rats at doses of 50, 150, and 450 mg/kg between 3 and 25 days after OA induction. The animals were clinically evaluated every 7 days, euthanized at 29 days, and the liver, spleen, kidney and knee collected for histopathological analysis. The chemical composition of EHA was identified by HPLC-MS and the identified compounds submitted to molecular docking study. The results showed that the extract promoted cyclooxygenase inhibition and produced significant improvements in disability, motor activity, hyperalgesia, and OA-induced allodynia parameters, in addition to improvements in the radiological condition of the knees (but not observed in the histopathological study). Chemically the extract is rich in flavonoids. Among them, we evidence that amentoflavone showed very favorable interactions with the enzyme COX-2 in the in silico analysis. Thus, it is concluded that A. chica has important analgesic properties for the treatment of OA.

Novel anti-obesity effect of scutellarein and potential underlying mechanism of actions

AIMS

Scutellarein (Sc), a natural compound and an active ingredient of Erigeron breviscapus (vant.), shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and has the potential for obesity treatment. However, no previous in vivo study has been conducted to assess the role of Sc in obesity. This study investigated the effects of Sc on obesity and associated hyperlipidemia and fatty liver and explores the underlying mechanisms of action in a mouse model.

METHODS

The study was conducted using a well-established mouse model of obesity induced by high-fat diet (HFD) feeding. Anti-obesity effects were assessed using body weight, abdominal circumference, white adipose tissue, adiposity index, and fatty liver index. Lipid lowering and liver protective effects were examined by blood sample analysis. Lipid dystopia deposition was confirmed by liver pathological sections. The signaling pathways of lipid metabolism and cytokine/inflammatory mediator were evaluated using Real-Time PCR and Western blot.

RESULTS

Central obesity, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and hepatic steatosis were developed in mice fed with HFD. Administration of Sc at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 16 weeks effectively attenuated all obesity indicators tested. Further studies revealed the antagonistic effect of Sc on hyperlipidemia was a result of the repression of the lipid synthesis pathway, de novo pathway, HMGCR, promoting fatty acid oxidation (PPARα, CPT-1a) and increased cholesterol output (PPARγ-LXRα-ABCA1). The anti-inflammatory effect was attributed to blocking the expression of inflammatory genes, including TNF-α, IL-6, NF-κB.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that Sc possesses important novel anti-obesity effects accompanying lipid lowering and anti-inflammation-based liver protective effects. These favorable effects are causally associated with the suppression of gene expression of inflammatory cytokines and fine regulation of genes responsible for energy metabolism. Our results advance the understanding of the pharmacological actions of Sc, and provides a role for Sc in effective management of obesity.

Coated electrospun bioactive wound dressings: Mechanical properties and ability to control lesion microenvironment

Advanced wound dressings capable of interacting with lesions and changing the wound microenvironment to improve healing are promising to increase the therapeutic efficacy of this class of biomaterials. Aiming at the production of bioactive wound dressings with the ability to control the wound microenvironment, biomaterials of three different chemical compositions, but with the same architecture, were produced and compared. Electrospinning was employed to build up a biomimetic extracellular matrix (ECM) layer consisting of poly(caprolactone) (PCL), 50/50 dl-lactide/glycolide copolymer (PDLG) and poly(l-lactide) (PLLA). As a post-treatment to broaden the bioactivity of the dressings, an alginate coating was applied to sheathe and functionalize the surface of the hydrophobic electrospun wound dressings, in combination with the extract of the plant Arrabidaea chica Verlot, known for its anti-inflammatory and healing promotion properties. Wettable bioactive structures capable to interact with media simulating lesion microenvironments, with tensile strength and elongation at break ranging respectively from 155 to 273 MPa and from 0.94 to 1.39% were obtained. In simulated exudative microenvironment, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) values around 700 g/m²/day were observed, while water vapor permeability rates (WVPR) reached about 300 g/m²/day. In simulated dehydrated microenvironment, values of WVTR around 200 g/m²/day and WVPR around 175 g/m²/day were attained.

Anti-inflammatory activity of 4',6,7-trihydroxy-5-methoxyflavone from Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L.G.Lohmann

Fridericia chica, Bignoniaceae, is a tropical tree-creeper used as a traditional remedy for a number of diseases, highlighting inflammation. Our objective was to corroborate the popular anti-inflammatory use of the hydroethanolic extract from the leaves (HEFc) and of its isolated 4',6,7-trihydroxy-5-methoxyflavone (5-O-methylscutellarein) [1], described here for the first time. Quantitative analysis indicated 8.77 ± 0.23 mg/g of this compound in the extract. Neither HEFc nor [1] was cytotoxic in vitro. In LPS-induced peritonitis in mice, oral pre-treatment with HEFc or [1] led to decreased leukocyte migration to the peritoneal cavity and a reduction in the concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα and IL-1β). Also, the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was enhanced following treatment with [1]. Overall, these results validate the traditional use of Fridericia chica as anti-inflammatory, and indicate that the compound 5-O-methylscutellarein may participate in this effect.

In vitro antioxidant, antilipoxygenase and antimicrobial activities of extracts from seven climbing plants belonging to the Bignoniaceae

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant capacity, to determine the anti-inflammatory effect due to lipoxygenase inhibition and to test the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extracts from leaves of seven climbing species belonging to the Bignoniaceae family. These species are Adenocalymma marginatum (Cham.) DC., Amphilophium vauthieri DC., Cuspidaria convoluta (Vell.) A. H. Gentry, Dolichandra dentata (K. Schum.) L. G. Lohmann, Fridericia caudigera (S. Moore) L. G. Lohmann, Fridericia chica (Bonpl.) L. G. Lohmann and Tanaecium selloi (Spreng.) L. G. Lohmann.

METHODS

The antioxidant activity was evaluated using three methods, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and ferric reducing antioxidant power. Lipoxygenase-inhibiting activity was assayed spectrophotometrically; the result was expressed as percent inhibition. The antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar disk diffusion method. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal/fungicidal concentration were also determined for each extract against 12 pathogenic bacterial strains of Staphylococcus aureus and seven fungal strains of the Candida genus. The identification of the major compounds present in the most promising extract was established by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

C. convoluta, F. caudigera, and F. chica exhibited the best antioxidant activity by scavenging DPPH and ABTS⁺ radicals and reducing Fe³⁺ ion. These extracts showed a notable inhibition of lipoxygenase. F. caudigera was found to have the lower MIC value against S. aureus strains and six Candida species. The extracts of F. caudigera and C. convoluta were active even against methicillin-resistant S. aureus. C. convoluta had higher total phenol content, better antioxidant activity and superior anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. The main phenolic compounds found in this extract were coumaric and hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives and glycosylated and nonglycosylated flavones.

CONCLUSION

Most of the extracts exhibited antioxidant activity as well as in vitro inhibition of lipoxygenase. The excellent antimicrobial activity of T. selloi and F. chica supports their use in traditional medicine as antiseptic agents. The extracts of F. caudigera and C. convoluta, both with notable biological activities in this study, could be used as herbal remedies for skin care. In addition, this study provides, for the first time, information about phenolic compounds present in C. convoluta.

The extended production of UV-induced reactive oxygen species in L929 fibroblasts is attenuated by posttreatment with Arrabidaea chica through scavenging mechanisms

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure causes various injurious effects to human skin by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Excessive ROS production can lead to oxidative stress which may damage cellular components like lipids and proteins and causing photoaging. The use of natural photochemopreventive agents with antioxidant properties is an important alternative to improve the effectiveness of sunscreens and reduce skin photodamage. A crude extract (CE) from the leaves of Arrabidaea chica underwent partition by a liquid-liquid method. The hexane fraction (FH), chloroform fraction (FC), and ethyl acetate fraction (FEA) were obtained. The antioxidant capacity of the CE, FH, FC, and FEA was studied in a cell-free system using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method and the xanthine/luminol/xanthine oxidase system. The FC had the best antioxidant activity. We also evaluated the photochemoprotective effect of A. chica in protecting L929 fibroblasts against UV-A- and UV-B-induced cell damage. A. chica inhibited the extended production of ROS up to 3h. Posttreatment with the CE and FC attenuated UV-induced cell damage through scavenging mechanisms, including the quenching of intracellular ROS and mitochondrial O₂^- and preventing lipid peroxidation. These results suggest that A. chica may be a promising non-sunscreen photoprotector that can improve the effectiveness of commercial sunscreens.

Medicinal importance, pharmacological activities, and analytical aspects of hispidulin: A concise report

Herbal medicines have been played an important role in the human civilization since very ancient time as a food, cloth, medicine and other aspects. Some of the important drugs in the modern medicine were derived from the natural sources such as aspirin, digitalis, quinine, vincristine, vinblastine etc. Hispidulin (4', 5, 7-trihydroxy-6-methoxyflavone) is a flavones derivative found in plant such as Grindelia argentina, Arrabidaea chica, Saussurea involucrate, Crossostephium chinense, Artemisia and Salvia species. Hispidulin have antioxidant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and antineoplastic properties. So far, various analytical methods have been investigated and developed for detection of hispidulin in the plant materials. Productions of hispidulin through different tissue culture techniques have been also investigated. Present review summarized medicinal uses, pharmacological activities and analytical aspects of hispidulin. From the above mentioned aspects, we can conclude that, this review will be helpful to the researcher in the field of natural product for the development of novel molecule for the treatment of different disorders.

Pheophorbide a, a compound isolated from the leaves of Arrabidaea chica, induces photodynamic inactivation of Trypanosoma cruzi

BACKGROUND

Approximately 6-7 million people are infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas' disease. Only two therapeutic compounds have been found to be useful against this disease: nifurtimox and benznidazole. These drugs have been effective in the acute phase of the disease but less effective in the chronic phase; they also have many side effects. Thus, the search for new compounds with trypanocidal action is necessary. Natural products can be the source of many important substances for the development of drugs to treat this infection. The present study evaluated the biological activity of an extract and fractions of Arrabidaea chica against T. cruzi and observed morphological and ultrastructural characteristics of parasites exposed to the isolated compound pheophorbide a.

METHODS

The crude hydroethanolic extract of A. chica was prepared. Fractions were obtained by partition and separated by liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

We observed a progressive increase in activity against epimastigote, trypomastigote, and amastigote forms of the parasite over the course of the fractionation process. Interestingly, we isolated a compound known as a photosensitizer that is used in photodynamic therapy. This method of treatment involving a photosensitizer, activation light and molecular oxygen is of great importance due to its selectivity. Pheophorbide a had activity against the protozoan in the presence of light and caused morphological and ultrastructural changes, demonstrating its potential in photodynamic therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the ability of pheophorbide a to eliminate bloodstream forms of T. cruzi, we suggest its use in blood banks for hemoprophylaxis.

Pharmacologically active flavonoids from the anticancer, antioxidant and antimicrobial extracts of Cassia angustifolia Vahl

BACKGROUND

Cassia angustifolia Vahl. (commonly known as senna makkai or cassia senna), native to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Yemen and also extensively cultivated in Pakistan, is a medicinal herb used traditionally to cure number of diseases like liver diseases, constipation, typhoid, cholera etc. This study was conducted to evaluate the in-vitro antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer assays and phytochemical constituents of aqueous and organic extracts of C. angustifolia leaves.

METHODS

The antimicrobial activities of C. angustifolia aqueous and organic (methanol, ethanol, acetone, ethyl acetate) extracts were investigated by the disk diffusion method. These extracts were further evaluated for antioxidant potential by the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Anticancer activities of the extracts were determined by the MTT colorimetric assay. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of C. angustifolia extracts were evaluated by the Folin-Ciocalteu method and aluminum chloride colorimetric assay, respectively. The structures of the bioactive compounds were elucidated by NMR and ESI-MS spectrometry.

RESULTS

Bioactivity-guided screening of C. angustifolia extracts, led to the isolation and identification of three flavonoids quercimeritrin (1), scutellarein (2), and rutin (3) reported for the first time from this plant, showed significant anticancer activity against MCF-7 (IC_50, 4.0 μg/μL), HeLa (IC_50, 5.45 μg/μL), Hep2 (IC_50, 7.28 μg/μL) and low cytotoxicity against HCEC (IC_50, 21.09 μg/μL). Significant antioxidant activity was observed with IC₅₀ 2.41 μg/mL against DPPH radical. Moreover, C. angustifolia extracts have the potential to inhibit microbial growth of E. cloacae, P. aeruginosa, S. mercescens and S. typhi.

CONCLUSION

C. angustifolia extracts revealed the presence of quercimeritrin (1), scutellarein (2), and rutin (3), all known to have useful bioactivities including antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer activities.

Leishmanicidal, cytotoxicity and wound healing potential of Arrabidaea chica Verlot

BACKGROUND

Leishmaniasis includes a wide complex of diseases that affect humans and other mammals, and can range from a mild cutaneous form to a severe visceral type. The safety of the standard treatment using pentavalent antimony is a concern due to its toxic effects. The search for alternative, effective and less toxic treatments has led to the testing of natural products. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic, leishmanicidal and healing potential of Arrabidaea chica.

METHODS

The crude ethanolic extract, as well as the chloroform, methanol and ethyl acetate fractions of A. chica were prepared and phytochemical analysis was performed. Cytotoxic evaluation was carried out through MTT colorimetric assay, and the 50% cellular cytotoxicity was determined. After that, the effect of the extract and fractions against Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes, at intervals of 24, 48 and 72 h, was analyzed, and 50% inhibitory concentration was determined. The healing effect of the plant was also tested in surgical lesions in Swiss mice skin.

RESULTS

Phytochemical screening showed that the crude extracts contained flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanidins and chalcones. The leishmanicidal potential of A. chica produced satisfactory results in concentrations of between 60 and 155.9 μg/mL. Cytotoxic assay revealed a 50% reduction in viable cells at a concentration of 189.9 μg/mL. The healing results indicated that the treated group exhibited more pronounced signs of lesion resolution in the early period, but this pattern did not persist throughout the treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study demonstrate that A. chica has cytotoxic and leishmanicidal potential but its healing effect must be better studied.

Seasonal Variations of Metabolome and Tyrosinase Inhibitory Activity of Lespedeza maximowiczii during Growth Periods

Lespedeza species are useful for pasture and energy crops as well as medical plants. We determined the metabolites discriminated from the each growth period (3, 4, 6, 8, 15, and 18 months) after germination in leaves and stems of Lespedeza maximowizii by a metabolomics technique. Specifically, levels of sugars and luteolin-dominated derivatives were significantly elevated in samples harvested in November. This may be related to the cold tolerance mechanism against the low temperatures of the winter season. The concentrations of secondary metabolites, isoflavones and flavanones, as well as tyrosinase inhibitory activity were the highest in the 6 month samples, which were harvested in September, during the fall season. The tyrosinase inhibitory activity in leaves was higher than that in stems irrespective of the growth period. This study suggests that mass spectrometry-based metabolite profiling could be used as a tool to examine quantitative or qualitative metabolite changes related to seasonal variations and to understand the correlation between activity and metabolites.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants by population of Valley of Juruena Region, Legal Amazon, Mato Grosso, Brazil

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE

The use of medicinal plants for treatment, cure and prevention of diseases has been described by many people since time immemorial. Because of this use, commercial and scientific interests have emerged, making it necessary to realize ethnobotanical surveys of medicinal plants species, which is important for subsequent chemical and pharmacological bioprospections.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed at surveying, identifying, cataloging and documenting the medicinal plants species used in the Valley of Juruena, Northwestern Mato Grosso, Legal Amazon Brazil for the treatment of various human diseases, as well as assessed the species of interest for bioprospecting potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Informants were interviewed using semi-structured form to capture information on socio-demographic and ethnopharmacological data of medicinal plants such as vernacular name, uses, geographic origin, habit, form of preparation and part used. Results were analyzed using descriptive and quantitative means: indices of use-report (Ur) and informant consensus factor (ICF), for the selection of plant species with therapeutic potential.

RESULTS

Three hundred and thirty two (332) plants species belonging to 90 families were reported for medicinal purposes and totaling 3973 use-reports were reported by 365 (92.9%) of the people interviewed. Asteraceae (32.2%), Fabaceae (26.7%) and Lamiaceae (24.4%) families were the most represented, with majority being species native (64.45%) to Brazil. Leaves (64.5%) were the part of the plant most used and infusion (45.7%) was the most utilized form. Gastrointestinal disorders followed by respiratory complaints topped the list of use-reports. The native or naturalized plants with the highest use reports in the order of decreasing absolute frequency per each emic-category are Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapfc (104), Mentha pulegium L. (94), Arrabidaea chica (Humb. & Bonpl.) B. Verl. (97), Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze (71), Baccharis crispa Spreng (57), Phyllanthus niruri L. (48), Gossypium barbadense L. (44), Solidago microglossa DC. (40) and Bauhinia forficata L. (20). And the most cited exotics are: Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (151), Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f., (89) and Rosmarinus officinalis L. (72). In some cases, high ICF values were found, which reflects high degree of homogeneity of consensus among informants in this region on medicinal plants.

CONCLUSION

The population of Valle of Juruena makes use of a wide array of medicinal plants distributed in all use categories with predominance of those use in the treatments of gastrointestinal and respiratory ailments. The therapeutic potential of some of the species of medicinal importance extensively utilized by the population of the region have been scientifically validated, and are therefore promising prototype of new drugs. However, there are some of these species whose ethnomedicinal uses are yet to be scientifically verified and thus constitute an unexplored terrain for future biological/pharmacological studies.

Scutellarein Reduces Inflammatory Responses by Inhibiting Src Kinase Activity

Flavonoids are plant pigments that have been demonstrated to exert various pharmacological effects including anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the molecular mechanisms in terms of exact target proteins of flavonoids are not fully elucidated yet. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of scutellarein (SCT), a flavonoid isolated from Erigeron breviscapus, Clerodendrum phlomidis and Oroxylum indicum Vent that have been traditionally used to treat various inflammatory diseases in China and Brazil. For this purpose, a nitric oxide (NO) assay, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), nuclear fractionation, immunoblot analysis, a kinase assay, and an overexpression strategy were employed. Scutellarein significantly inhibited NO production in a dose-dependent manner and reduced the mRNA expression levels of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW264.7 cells. In addition, SCT also dampened nuclear factor (NF)-κB-driven expression of a luciferase reporter gene upon transfection of a TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) construct into Human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK 293) cells; similarly, NF-κ B nuclear translocation was inhibited by SCT. Moreover, the phosphorylation levels of various upstream signaling enzymes involved in NF-κB activation were decreased by SCT treatment in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. Finally, SCT strongly inhibited Src kinase activity and also inhibited the autophosphorylation of overexpressed Src. Therefore, our data suggest that SCT can block the inflammatory response by directly inhibiting Src kinase activity linked to NF-κB activation.

Medicinal plants in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infections

CONTEXT

Helicobacter pylori is a small, spiral, Gram-negative bacillus that plays a role in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases ranging from asymptomatic gastritis to gastric cancer. Schedule compliance, antibiotic drug resistance, and side-effects of triple or quadruple therapy have led to research for novel candidates from plants.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper is to review the most potent medicinal plants of recently published literature with anti-H. pylori activity. For centuries, herbals have been used by traditional healers around the world to treat various gastrointestinal tract disorders such as dyspepsia, gastritis, and peptic ulcer disease. The mechanism of action by which these botanicals exert their therapeutic properties has not been completely and clearly elucidated. Anti-H. pylori properties may be one of the possible mechanisms by which gastroprotective herbs treat gastrointestinal tract disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Electronic databases such as PubMed, Google scholar, EBSCO, and local databases were explored for medicinal plants with anti-H. pylori properties between 1984 and 2013 using key words "medicinal plants" and "Helicobacter pylori" or "anti-Helicobacter pylori".

RESULTS

A total of 43 medicinal plant species belonging to 27 families including Amaryllidaceae, Anacardiaceae, Apiaceae, Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae, Asteraceae, Bignoniaceae, Clusiaceae, Chancapiedra, Combretaceae, Cyperaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, Geraniaceae, Lamiaceae, Lauraceae, Lythraceae, Menispermaceae, Myristicaceae, Myrtaceae, Oleaceae, Papaveraceae, Plumbaginaceae, Poaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, and Theaceae were studied as herbs with potent anti-H. pylori effects.

CONCLUSION

Traditional folk medicinal use of some of these plants to treat gastric infections is substantiated by the antibacterial activity of their extracts against H. pylori.

Chitosan-tripolyphosphate nanoparticles as Arrabidaea chica standardized extract carrier: synthesis, characterization, biocompatibility, and antiulcerogenic activity

Natural products using plants have received considerable attention because of their potential to treat various diseases. Arrabidaea chica (Humb. & Bonpl.) B. Verlot is a native tropical American vine with healing properties employed in folk medicine for wound healing, inflammation, and gastrointestinal colic. Applying nanotechnology to plant extracts has revealed an advantageous strategy for herbal drugs considering the numerous features that nanostructured systems offer, including solubility, bioavailability, and pharmacological activity enhancement. The present study reports the preparation and characterization of chitosan-sodium tripolyphosphate nanoparticles (NPs) charged with A. chica standardized extract (AcE). Particle size and zeta potential were measured using a Zetasizer Nano ZS. The NP morphological characteristics were observed using scanning electron microscopy. Our studies indicated that the chitosan/sodium tripolyphosphate mass ratio of 5 and volume ratio of 10 were found to be the best condition to achieve the lowest NP sizes, with an average hydrodynamic diameter of 150±13 nm and a zeta potential of +45±2 mV. Particle size decreased with AcE addition (60±10.2 nm), suggesting an interaction between the extract's composition and polymers. The NP biocompatibility was evaluated using human skin fibroblasts. AcE-NP demonstrated capability of maintaining cell viability at the lowest concentrations tested, stimulating cell proliferation at higher concentrations. Antiulcerogenic activity of AcE-NP was also evaluated with an acute gastric ulcer experimental model induced by ethanol and indomethacin. NPs loaded with A. chica extract reduced the ulcerative lesion index using lower doses compared with the free extract, suggesting that extract encapsulation in chitosan NPs allowed for a dose reduction for a gastroprotective effect. The AcE encapsulation offers an approach for further application of the A. chica extract that could be considered a potential candidate for ulcer-healing pharmaceutical systems.

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic and antiproliferative activities of Arrabidaea chica crude extracts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Arrabidaea chica (Bignoniacea) has been used in popular medicine in Brazil to treat inflammation, skin diseases and leukemia. This work aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and antitumoral activities of the A. chica aqueous (AE) and ethanol (EE) extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The murine sponge model was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic activities of AE and EE. Accumulation of neutrophil and macrophage in the implants were determined by assaying myeloperoxidase and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase activities and the neovascularization evaluated by the amount of hemoglobin present in the implant using the Drabkin method. The antitumoral activity was evaluated using the MTT colorimetric method against Jurkat, HL60 and MCF-7 cells. Semi-purified fractions F1-F4 from the EE extract were obtained by a liquid-liquid solvent extraction method and their in vitro anti-proliferative effects were also investigated.

RESULTS

Ethanol and aqueous extracts of A. chica decreased neutrophil accumulation and hemoglobin content in the sponge implants without altering the level of cytokines (IL-2, IL- 4, IL-5, IFN-γ, TNF-α and VEGF) and the albumin/globulin ratio in the serum of treated animals. There was no sign of toxicity (clinical, laboratory or histopathology). The ethanol extract presented antiproliferative activity (IC50 21.5-36.3 µg/mL) against HL60 and Jurkat cell lineages and proapoptotic activity at 50 µg/mL in HL60 cells. The fraction F1 also demonstrated significant antiproliferative activity (IC50 38.5 µg/mL) and proapoptotic activity against HL60 cells in a dose dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Aqueous and ethanol extracts of A. chica attenuate the inflammatory and angiogenic components of the subcutaneous fibrovascular tissue induced by the synthetic matrix in mice. In addition, the ethanol extract from Arrabidaea chica and its fraction F1 presented in vitro antiproliferative activity and could be useful for developing potential chemopreventive substances.

Molecular progress in research on fruit astringency

Astringency is one of the most important components of fruit oral sensory quality. Astringency mainly comes from tannins and other polyphenolic compounds and causes the drying, roughening and puckering of the mouth epithelia attributed to the interaction between tannins and salivary proteins. There is growing interest in the study of fruit astringency because of the healthy properties of astringent substances found in fruit, including antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antiallergenic, hepatoprotective, vasodilating and antithrombotic activities. This review will focus mainly on the relationship between tannin structure and the astringency sensation as well as the biosynthetic pathways of astringent substances in fruit and their regulatory mechanisms.

Luteolin provides neuroprotection in models of traumatic brain injury via the Nrf2-ARE pathway

Luteolin has recently been proven to exert neuroprotection in a variety of neurological diseases; however, its roles and the underlying mechanisms in traumatic brain injury are not fully understood. The present study was aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of luteolin in models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the possible role of the Nrf2-ARE pathway in the putative neuroprotection. A modified Marmarou׳s weight-drop model in mice and the scratch model in mice primary cultured neurons were used to induce TBI. We determined that luteolin significantly ameliorated secondary brain injury induced by TBI, including neurological deficits, brain water content, and neuronal apoptosis. Furthermore, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were restored in the group with luteolin treatment. in vitro studies showed that luteolin administration lowered the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and increased the neuron survival. Moreover, luteolin enhanced the translocation of Nrf2 to the nucleus both in vivo and in vitro, which was proved by the results of Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Subsequently upregulation of the expression of the downstream factors such as heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) and

NAD(P)H

quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) was also examined. However, luteolin treatment failed to provide neuroprotection after TBI in Nrf2(-/-) mice. Taken together, these in vivo and in vitro data demonstrated that luteolin provided neuroprotective effects in the models of TBI, possibly through the activation of the Nrf2-ARE pathway.

Arrabidaea chica hexanic extract induces mitochondrion damage and peptidase inhibition on Leishmania spp

Currently available leishmaniasis treatments are limited due to severe side effects. Arrabidaea chica is a medicinal plant used in Brazil against several diseases. In this study, we investigated the effects of 5 fractions obtained from the crude hexanic extract of A. chica against Leishmania amazonensis and L. infantum, as well as on the interaction of these parasites with host cells. Promastigotes were treated with several concentrations of the fractions obtained from A. chica for determination of their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). In addition, the effect of the most active fraction (B2) on parasite's ultrastructure was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. To evaluate the inhibitory activity of B2 fraction on Leishmania peptidases, parasites lysates were treated with the inhibitory and subinhibitory concentrations of the B2 fraction. The minimum inhibitory concentration of B2 fraction was 37.2 and 18.6 μg/mL for L. amazonensis and L. infantum, respectively. Important ultrastructural alterations as mitochondrial swelling with loss of matrix content and the presence of vesicles inside this organelle were observed in treated parasites. Moreover, B2 fraction was able to completely inhibit the peptidase activity of promastigotes at pH 5.5. The results presented here further support the use of A. chica as an interesting source of antileishmanial agents.