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1.
Rev. colomb. ciencias quim. farm ; 51(2)mayo-ago. 2022.
Article in English | LILACS-Express | LILACS | ID: biblio-1535844

ABSTRACT

SUMMARY Introduction: Chagas disease and Leishmaniasis are neglected diseases caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi and kentoplastid parasites Leishmania spp. Parasitic diseases cause great impact on social and economic, affecting millions of people in the world and represent a major global health problem. In the search for new alternatives for the treatment of Leishmaniasis and Chagas disease, strategies have been used to discover new active molecules, because there is an urgent need for the development of new drugs. In this scenario, 1,4-naphthoquinones have shown notable activity in the context of neglected diseases. Aim: To synthesis of 1,4-naphthoquinones derivatives and evaluated these compounds against Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes, Leishmania promastigotes (Leishmania amazonensis) and cytotoxicity to LLCMK2 cells. Results: Nine 1,4-naphthoquinones derivatives were synthesized using 2-Bromo-1,4-naphthoquinone (1), 1,4-Naphthoquinone (5) and 2-Hydroxi-1,4-naphthoqui-none (9) as starting material. Derivative 6a exhibited excellent trypanocidal activity, IC50 of 0.25 ± 0.02 µM, superior potency compared with the reference drug Benznidazol. Besides, these compounds displayed low activity against promastigote from L. amazonensis. Conclusion: The results indicate that compound 6a may have potential for agent against Chagas disease.


Introducción: La enfermedad de Chagas y la leishmaniasis son enfermedades desatendidas causadas por los parásitos Trypanosoma cruzi y kentoplastid Leishmania spp. Las enfermedades parasitarias tienen un gran impacto social y económico, afectan a millones de personas en el mundo y representan un importante problema de salud mundial. En la búsqueda de nuevas alternativas para el tratamiento de la leishmaniasis y la enfermedad de Chagas, se han utilizado estrategias para descubrir nuevas moléculas activas, porque existe una necesidad urgente de desarrollo de nuevos fármacos. En este escenario, las 1,4-naftoquinonas han mostrado una notable actividad en el contexto de enfermedades desatendidas. Objetivo: Sintetizar derivados de 1,4-naftoquinonas y evaluación de estos compuestos frente a epimastigotes de Trypanosoma cruzi, promastigotes de Leishmania (Leishmania amazonensis) y citotoxicidad a células LLCMK2. Resultados: Se sintetizaron nueve derivados de 1,4-naftoquinonas usando 2-bromo-1,4-naftoquinona (1), 1,4-naftoquinona (5) y 2-hidroxi-1,4-naftoquinona (9) como material de partida. El derivado 6a exhibió una excelente actividad tripanocida, CI50 de 0,25 ± 0,02 µM, potencia superior en comparación con el fármaco de referencia Benznidazol. Además, estos compuestos mostraron una baja actividad contra el promastigote de L. amazonensis. Conclusión: Los resultados indican que el compuesto 6a puede tener potencial como agente contra la enfermedad de Chagas.


Introdução: A doença de Chagas e a leishmaniose são doenças negligenciadas causadas pelos parasitas Trypanosoma cruzi e kentoplastídeos Leishmania spp. As doenças parasitárias causam grande impacto social e econômico, afetando milhões de pessoas no mundo e representam um dos maiores problemas de saúde global. Na busca por novas alternativas para o tratamento da Leishmaniose e da doença de Chagas, estratégias têm sido utilizadas para descobrir novas moléculas ativas, porque há urgência no desenvolvimento de novos fármacos. Nesse cenário, as 1,4-nafto-quinonas têm mostrado notável atividade no contexto das doenças negligenciadas. Objetivos: Sintetizar derivados de 1,4-naftoquinonas e avaliar esses compostos contra epimastigotas de Trypanosoma cruzi, promastigotas de Leishmania (Leishmania amazonensis) e citotoxicidade para células LLCMK2. Resultados: Nove derivados de 1,4-naftoquinonas foram sintetizados usando 2-Bromo-1,4-naftoquinona (1), 1,4-Naftoquinona (5) e 2-Hidroxi-1,4-naftoquinona (9) como material de partida. O derivado 6a exibiu excelente atividade tripanocida, IC50 de 0,25 ± 0,02 µM, potência superior em comparação com o medicamento de referência Benzonidazol. Além disso, esses compostos apresentaram baixa atividade contra a forma promasti-gota de L. amazonensis. Conclusão: Os resultados indicam que o composto 6a pode ter potencial para agente contra a doença de Chagas.

2.
Braz. J. Pharm. Sci. (Online) ; 58: e18637, 2022. tab, graf
Article in English | LILACS | ID: biblio-1364416

ABSTRACT

Abstract The therapeutic drugs to treat Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections have toxic side effects and there has been an emergence of drug-resistant strains. Therefore, the search for new treatments for HSV infections is mounting. In the present study, semi-solid formulations containing a crude hydroethanolic extract (CHE) from Schinus terebinthifolia were developed. Skin irritation, cutaneous permeation, and in vivo therapeutic efficacy of the formulations were investigated. Treatment with the ointment formulations did not result in any signs of skin irritation while the emulsions increased the thickness of the epidermis in Swiss mice. The cutaneous permeation test indicated that the CHE incorporated in the formulations permeated through the skin layers and was present in the epidermis and dermis even 3 h after topical application. In vivo antiviral activity in BALB/c mice treated with the CHE ointments was better than those treated with the CHE emulsions and did not significantly differ from an acyclovir-treated group. Taken together, this suggests that the incorporation of CHE in the ointment may be a potential candidate for the alternative topical treatment of herpetic lesions.


Subject(s)
Pharmaceutical Preparations/analysis , Simplexvirus/classification , Herpesvirus 1, Human/classification , Anacardiaceae/adverse effects , Antiviral Agents/adverse effects , Acyclovir/antagonists & inhibitors , Efficacy , Emulsions/adverse effects
3.
Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz ; 117: e220396, 2022. tab, graf
Article in English | LILACS-Express | LILACS | ID: biblio-1365148

ABSTRACT

Over the past years, natural products have been explored in order to find biological active substances to treat various diseases. Regarding their potential action against parasites such as trypanosomatids, specially Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania spp., much advance has been achieved. Extracts and purified molecules of several species from genera Piper, Tanacetum, Porophyllum, and Copaifera have been widely investigated by our research group and exhibited interesting antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial activities. These natural compounds affected different structures in parasites, and we believe that the mitochondrion is a strategic target to induce parasite death. Considering that these trypanosomatids have a unique mitochondrion, this cellular target has been extensively studied aiming to find more selective drugs, since the current treatment of these neglected tropical diseases has some challenges such as high toxicity and prolonged treatment time. Here, we summarise some results obtained with natural products from our research group and we further highlighted some strategies that must be considered to finally develop an effective chemotherapeutic agent against these parasites.

4.
Braz. arch. biol. technol ; 64(spe): e21200795, 2021. tab, graf
Article in English | LILACS | ID: biblio-1285573

ABSTRACT

Abstract Hesperidin is a natural compound which is found in citric fruits and presents antitumor and antimicrobial activities. However, the in vivo efficacy of Hesperidin is reduced due to its low oral bioavailability. Protein-based nanoparticles have been applied to improve biological parameters of drugs and natural compounds. Gliadin is a monomeric protein present in wheat. In this study, gliadin-based nanoparticles containing hesperidin were obtained by desolvation technique and a Taguchi orthogonal array design was employed to optimize the formulation. The independent variables were set as concentration of CaCl2 (0.5; 1 or 2%) and stabilizing agent (Pluronic F68, Tween 80 or sodium caseinate). The dependent variables consisted of mean diameter, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The results showed significant effects on the dependent variables when 1% CaCl2 and Pluronic F68 were used. The optimized formulation was coated with chitosan to increase the physical stability of the nanoparticles. The final nanoparticles presented a mean diameter of 321 nm and polydispersity index of 0.217, and spherical shape. After coating, the Zeta potential was +21 mV, and the encapsulation efficiency was 73 %. The in vitro release assay showed that about 98% of the drug was released from the nanoparticles after 48 h. Moreover, the nanoparticles reduced hesperidin cytotoxicity on healthy cells (Vero cells) and improved the cytotoxicity on tumor cells (HeLa, PC-3 and Caco-2 cells). Results showed that the chitosan-coated gliadin nanoparticles are potential carriers for hesperidin delivery for cancer treatment.


Subject(s)
Chitosan/chemistry , Gliadin/chemistry , Hesperidin/pharmacology , Neoplasms/drug therapy , Nanoparticles
5.
Ciênc. rural (Online) ; 50(10): e20200343, 2020. tab, graf
Article in English | LILACS-Express | LILACS | ID: biblio-1133207

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT: Protozoa of the genus Phytomonas are harmful parasites to several agricultural crops of economic importance. Due to their recognized biological activity, crude extracts of Piper aduncum, P. crassinervium, P. hispidum, and P. amalago leaves, were tested using the microdilution plate technique to assess the antiparasitic potential against Phytomonas serpens. Results showed that the ethanolic crude extract of P. crassinervium and P. amalago presented the best inhibitory concentration for 50% of the cells (IC50), 16.5 µg mL-1 in chloroform phase, and 18 µg mL-1 in aqueous phase, respectively, after 48 h treatment. Cytotoxicity analyses were performed using the colorimetric method of sulforhodamine-B in LLCMK2 mammalian cells. The chloroform phase of P. crassinervium was subjected to the fractionation process, in which the ethyl acetate and dichloromethane fractions obtained better IC50 values. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed alterations in the cell membrane of the treated parasites. The data obtained indicate a potential antiparasitic effect of the Piper species analyzed against P. serpens, being considered promising candidates for formulations of bioproducts to control the parasite.


RESUMO: Protozoários do gênero Phytomonas são parasitas prejudiciais a várias culturas agrícolas de importância econômica. Devido a sua atividade biológica reconhecida, extratos brutos de folhas de Piper aduncum, P. crassinervium, P. hispidum e P. amalago, foram testadas pela técnica de microdiluição em placa para avaliar o seu potencial antiparasitário contra Phytomonas serpens. Os resultados mostraram que o extrato bruto etanólico de P. crassinervium e P. amalago apresentaram as melhores concentrações inibitórias para 50% das células (IC50), 16,5 µg mL-1 na fase clorofórmio e 18 µg mL-1 na fase aquosa, respectivamente, após 48 h de tratamento. Análises de citotoxicidade foram realizadas através do método colorimétrico da sulforodamina-B, em células de mamíferos LLCMK2. A fase clorofórmio de P. crassinervium foi submetida ao processo de fracionamento, no qual as frações acetato de etila e diclorometano obtiveram melhores valores de IC50. Imagens de microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) mostraram alterações na membrana celular dos parasitas tratados com fase aquosa de P. amalago. Os dados obtidos indicam potencial efeito antiparasitário das espécies de Piper analisadas contra P. serpens, sendo consideradas candidatas promissoras para formulações de bioprodutos para controle do parasito.

6.
Rev. bras. farmacogn ; 29(5): 613-620, Sept.-Oct. 2019. graf
Article in English | LILACS-Express | LILACS | ID: biblio-1057837

ABSTRACT

Abstract Trichilia catigua A. Juss., Meliaceae, known as "catuaba" in Brazil, has been popularly used as a tonic for fatigue, impotence and memory deficits. Previously, we have demonstrated that T. catigua ethyl-acetate fraction exerted antidepressive-like effects in mice. Affective-like symptoms are also well recognized outcome of cerebral ischemia in clinical and preclinical settings. Therefore, here we evaluated the effects of ethyl-acetate fraction on the emotional outcomes and its relation with hippocampal neurogenesis in ischemic mice. Male Swiss mice were subject to the bilateral common carotid occlusion during 20 min. The animals received ethyl-acetate fraction (400 mg/kg, orally) 30 min before and once per day during 7 days after reperfusion. Emotional outcomes were assessed using the open field test, elevated zero maze, and the tail suspension test. After the behavioral testing, the animals were sacrificed and their brains were processed to immunohistochemistry and Nissl staining. Ischemic mice exhibited anxiogenic-like behaviors in the elevated zero maze, hippocampal neurodegeneration and decreased hippocampal neurogenesis. The anxiogenic-like effect was counteracted by ethyl-acetate fraction administration. Furthermore, ethyl-acetate fraction restored the number of newborn neurons in the dentate gyrus of hippocampus of ischemic mice. In conclusion, T. catigua ethyl-acetate fraction promoted functional recovery and restored hippocampal neurogenesis in ischemic mice.

7.
Rev. bras. farmacogn ; 25(6): 651-656, Nov.-Dec. 2015. tab, graf
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-769939

ABSTRACT

Abstract Chagas' disease is a parasitic infection caused by protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi that affect millions of people worldwide. The available drugs for treatment of this infection cause serious side effects and have variable efficacy, especially in the chronic phase of the disease. In this context, natural compounds have shown great potential for the discovery of new chemotherapies for the treatment of this infection and various other diseases. In present study, we evaluated the in vitro antiprotozoal activity of five species of Brazilian and Spanish marine sponges (Condrosia reniformes, Tethya rubra, Tethya ignis, Mycale angulosa and Dysidea avara) against T. cruzi. By GC–MS data, we observed that in these extracts were present the major classes of the following compounds: hydrocarbons, terpenes, steroids and alcohols. The extracts showed activity against the three forms of this parasite and did not induce toxicity in mammalian cells. Better activities were observed with the extracts of marine sponges, C. reniformes (EC50 = 0.6 μg/ml), D. avara (EC50 = 1.1 μg/ml) and M. angulosa (EC50 = 3.8 μg/ml), against trypomastigote forms. In intracellular amastigote forms, the extract of T. ignis showed IC50 of 7.2 μg/ml and SI of 24.65. On this basis, our results indicate that these extracts can be promising chemotherapeutic agents against T. cruzi.

8.
Semina cienc. biol. saude ; 34(2): 205-214, jul.-dez. 2013. tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-726427

ABSTRACT

Yeasts of the Candida genus can colonize epithelium and mucosa of the vertebrate organisms; howeverthese can cause infection in a broad range of body sites. Candida species also can be found in drinking water and they are considered as a potential indicator of water quality. In this study were evaluated three methods to identify yeasts isolated from blotted water (seminested PCR, culture on CHROMagar Candida medium, and Candifast identification system). For this propose, we used 27 isolates fromblotted water and compared with 22 clinical isolates from vaginal fluid. Seminested PCR has shown specificity and sensitivity for identification of the Candida species. Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis were the prevalent species from vaginal fluid and blotted water, respectively. Culture onCHROMagar and Candifast system had low agreement with snPCR (40.9% and 45.5%, respectively) in the yeasts identification from vaginal fluid. On the other hand, CHROMagar Candida can be used in the presumptive identification of yeasts isolated from bottled water and it had agreement’s percentage of 81.5% with snPCR method.


Leveduras do gênero Candida podem colonizar epitélio e mucosa dos organismos vertebrados, entretanto, podem causar infecções em vários lugares do corpo. Espécies de Candida, também, podem ser encontradas em água e são consideradas um potencial indicador da qualidade de água. Neste trabalho, foram avaliados três métodos de identificação de leveduras isoladas de água engarrafada (seminestedPCR, cultura no meio CHROMagar Candida e sistema de identificação Candifast). Foram utilizados 27 isolados de água engarrafada e comparados com 22 isolados clínicos de fluido vaginal. Seminested PCR tem mostrado especificidade e sensibilidade para a identificação das espécies de Candida. Candida albicans e Candida parapsilosis foram as espécies prevalentes do fluido vaginal e da água engarrafada,respectivamente. Cultura em CHROMagar e o sistema Candifast tiveram baixa concordância com snPCR(40,9% e 45,5%, respectivamente) na identificação de leveduras de fluido vaginal. Em contrapartida, CHROMagar Candida pode ser usado em identificação presuntiva de leveduras de água engarrafada apresentando concordância de 81,5% com o método snPCR.


Subject(s)
Candida , Candida albicans , Yeasts , Drinking Water
9.
Acta sci., Health sci ; 35(1): 1-8, jan.-jun. 2013. ilus, tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: biblio-1984

ABSTRACT

A total of 101 (20.0%) yeast samples were isolated from vaginal fluids of 504 non-hospitalized patients in Maringá, Paraná State, Brazil and Candida albicans was more frequent specie (93.1%) identified by seminested PCR method. All the isolates were susceptible to amphotericin B and nystatin, and 93.1% of them were susceptible to fluconazole. The acid proteinase, hemolytic and phospholipase activities were observed in 99.0, 90.0, and 88.0% of Candida spp., respectively. Around 67.0% of the strains had adherence indexes of 0.5 to 1.5 yeasts by Vero cell, and most of them showed a hydrophilic profile. Correlation studies indicated hydrophilic yeasts presented higher adherence index, proteinase, and phospholipase activities; and a positive correlation between all enzymes was also observed. In addition, the isolates with high hemolytic activity were less susceptible to fluconazole and amphotericin B. These results of Candida prevalence and antifungal susceptibility corroborate with literature's datas and correlation between virulence factors and MIC values suggest Candida isolates from vaginal fluid less susceptible to antifungal and with higher extracellular enzymes production can be more virulent to cause tissue damage.


Cento e uma leveduras foram isoladas de fluido vaginal de 504 pacientes não hospitalizados em Maringá, Estado do Paraná, Brasil e Candida albicans foi a espécie mais freqüente (93,1%) identificada pelo método seminested PCR. Todos os isolados foram susceptíveis a anfotericina B e a nistatina, e 93,1 % susceptíveis ao fluconazol. Atividades da proteinase ácida, hemolisina, e fosfolipase foram observadas em 99,0, 90,0 e 88,0% dos isolados de Candida spp., respectivamente. Aproximadamente 67,0% das cepas apresentaram índices de aderência de 0,5 a 1,5 leveduras por célula Vero, sendo que a maioria dos isolados mostrou um perfil hidrofílico. Estudos de correlação indicaram que leveduras hidrofílicas apresentaram maiores índices de aderência e atividade da proteinase e fosfolipase; e uma correlação positiva entre todas as enzimas, também, foi observada. Adicionalmente, os isolados com alta atividade hemolítica foram menos susceptíveis aos fluconazol e a anfotericina B. Esses resultados de prevalência de leveduras do gênero Candida e de susceptibilidade aos antifúngicos corroboram com dados da literatura; e as correlações observadas entre os fatores de virulência e valores de CIM sugerem que Candida spp. isoladas de fluido vaginal menos susceptíveis aos antifúngicos e com alta produção de enzimas extracelulares podem ser mais virulentas para causar dano tecidual.


Subject(s)
Humans , Female , Virulence , Candida/classification , Antifungal Agents
10.
Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz ; 108(1): 59-64, Feb. 2013. ilus, graf, tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-666045

ABSTRACT

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease. According to the World Health Organization, there are approximately 1.5-two million new cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis each year worldwide. Chemotherapy against leishmaniasis is based on pentavalent antimonials, which were developed more than a century ago. The goals of this study were to investigate the antileishmanial activity of diterpene acids in copaiba oil, as well as some possible targets of their action against Leishmania amazonensis. Methyl copalate and agathic, hydroxycopalic, kaurenoic, pinifolic and polyaltic acids isolated from Copaifera officinales oleoresins were utilised. Ultrastructural changes and the specific organelle targets of diterpenes were investigated with electron microscopy and flow cytometry, respectively. All compounds had some level of activity against L. amazonensis. Hydroxycopalic acid and methyl copalate demonstrated the most activity against promastigotes and had 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 2.5 and 6.0 µg/mL, respectively. However, pinifolic and kaurenoic acid demonstrated the most activity against axenic amastigote and had IC50 values of 3.5 and 4.0 µg/mL, respectively. Agathic, kaurenoic and pinifolic acid caused significant increases in plasma membrane permeability and mitochondrial membrane depolarisation of the protozoan. In conclusion, copaiba oil and its diterpene acids should be explored for the development of new antileishmanial drugs.


Subject(s)
Animals , Humans , Antiprotozoal Agents/pharmacology , Balsams/pharmacology , Leishmania mexicana/drug effects , Flow Cytometry , Leishmania mexicana/ultrastructure , Microscopy, Electron, Transmission , Parasitic Sensitivity Tests
11.
Braz. j. pharm. sci ; 49(1): 49-56, Jan.-Mar. 2013. ilus, tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-671400

ABSTRACT

In Brazil and other regions of the world, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp. have emerged as important agents of nosocomial infection and are commonly involved in outbreaks. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the genetic relationship among P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp. isolated from patients in a public university hospital in northwestern Paraná, Brazil, and report their antimicrobial resistance profile. A total of 75 P. aeruginosa and 94 Acinetobacter spp. isolates were phenotypically identified and tested for antibiotic susceptibility using automated methodology. Polymyxin B was tested by disk diffusion for P. aeruginosa. Metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) was detected using a disk approximation test. Genotyping was performed using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR). Approximately 55% of the P. aeruginosa isolates and 92% of the Acinetobacter spp. isolates were multiresistant, but none were MBL-producers. ERIC-PCR revealed the presence of small clusters of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp., most likely OXA-type carbapenemase producers. Furthermore, high genetic diversity in P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp. clinical isolates was observed, suggesting that cross-transmission is not very frequent in the studied hospital.


No Brasil, bem como em outras regiões do mundo, Pseudomonas aeruginosa e Acinetobacter spp. surgiram como importantes agentes de infecção nosocomial e são comumente envolvidos em surtos. O objetivo principal deste estudo foi descrever a relação genética de P. aeruginosa e Acinetobacter spp. isoladas de pacientes internados em hospital universitário público do noroeste do Paraná - Brasil e reportar o perfil de resistência dessas bactérias. Um total de 75 P. aeruginosa e 94 Acinetobacter spp. isolados foi fenotipicamente identificado e testado para a suscetibilidade aos antibióticos por metodologia automatizada. A polimixina B foi testada por difusão em disco para P. aeruginosa. Metalo-β-lactamase (MBL) foi detectada por disco-aproximação. Análise genotípica foi realizada por enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR). Aproximadamente 55% dos isolados de P. aeruginosa e 92% de Acinetobacter spp. isolados foram multirresistentes, mas nenhum foi produtor de MBL. Os resultados de ERIC-PCR revelaram pequenos grupamentos de Acinetobacter spp. resistentes aos carbapenêmicos, provavelmente pela produção de carbapenemases do tipo OXA. Além disso, alta diversidade genética entre os isolados de P. aeruginosa e Acinetobacter spp. foi observada, sugerindo que a transmissão cruzada destas espécies bacterianas não é muito frequente em nosso hospital.


Subject(s)
Humans , Pseudomonas aeruginosa/classification , Genetic Variation , Acinetobacter/classification , Hospitals, Public/classification , Pseudomonas aeruginosa/chemistry , Acinetobacter Infections/complications , Anti-Infective Agents/analysis
12.
Braz. j. microbiol ; 42(3): 1001-1006, July-Sept. 2011. tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-607530

ABSTRACT

In vitro activity of the essential oil from Piper diospyrifolium leaves was tested using disk diffusion techniques. The antifungal assay showed significant potencial antifungal activity: the oil was effective against several clinical fungal strains. The majority compounds in the essential oil were identified as sesquiterpenoids by GC-MS and GC-FID techniques.


Subject(s)
Antifungal Agents , In Vitro Techniques , Plant Structures , Piper/growth & development , Piper/genetics , Piperaceae/genetics , Sesquiterpenes/analysis , Trees , Atlantic Ocean , Methods , Oils, Volatile , Plant Leaves , Plant Preparations , Methods
13.
Rev. Soc. Bras. Med. Trop ; 42(5): 551-555, Sept.-Oct. 2009. tab, ilus
Article in Portuguese | LILACS | ID: lil-532512

ABSTRACT

A etiologia do processo diarréico na AIDS pode ser causada por vírus, bactérias, fungos, protozoários e helmintos, assim como pelo próprio HIV. Este trabalho avaliou enteropatogenos relacionados à diarréia em pacientes HIV que fazem uso de terapia anti-retroviral. Os métodos parasitológicos utilizados foram Faust, Hoffmann e Kinyoun. O isolamento e cultura dos fungos foram realizados conforme metodologia recomendada por NCCLS M27-A standard. A identificação das espécies de leveduras foi realizada através da reação em cadeia da polimerase. O isolamento de bactérias, foi feito em agar Mac Conkey e agar SS, a identificação das espécies através do Enterokit B (Probac do Brasil) e métodos bioquímicos. Foram avaliados 49 pacientes, 44,9 por cento apresentaram enteroparasitas, 48,1 por cento Candida sp com 61,5 por cento Candida albicans, 7,6 por cento Candida sp e 30,7 por cento Candida não- albicans. Foram isoladas bactérias de 72 por cento dos pacientes, 49 por cento Escherichia coli, 13 por cento Salmonella parathyphi, Klebsiella sp ou Proteus e 6 por cento Citrobacter freundii ou Yersinia sp. Houve alta prevalência de Candida sp nos pacientes HIV com diarréia e foram isoladas espécies não albicans cuja presença pode ser entendida como cúmplice ou causa da infecção.


The etiology of the diarrheic process in AIDS may be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa or helminths, as well as HIV itself. This study evaluated enteropathogens relating to diarrhea in HIV patients who were on antiretroviral therapy. The parasitological methods used were Faust, Hoffmann and Kinyoun. Isolation and culturing of fungi were carried out in accordance with the methodology recommended by the NCCLS M27-A standard. The yeast species were identified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Bacteria were isolated on MacConkey and SS agar and the species were identified using Enterokit B (Probac do Brasil) and biochemical methods. Forty-nine patients were evaluated: 44.89 percent presented enteroparasites and 48.1 percent presented Candida sp, of which 61.5 percent were Candida albicans, 7.6 percent were Candida sp and 30.7 percent were Candida non-albicans. Bacteria were isolated from 72 percent of the patients, of which 49 percent were Escherichia coli, 13 percent Salmonella parathyphi, Klebsiella sp or Proteus and 6 percent Citrobacter freundii or Yersinia sp. There was high prevalence of Candida sp in HIV patients with diarrhea and non-albicans species were isolated. Their presence could be taken to mean that they were accomplices in or causes of the infection.


Subject(s)
Adult , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Young Adult , AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections , Diarrhea , AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections/microbiology , AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections/parasitology , Anti-HIV Agents/therapeutic use , Diarrhea/microbiology , Diarrhea/parasitology , Feces/microbiology , Feces/parasitology , Socioeconomic Factors , Young Adult
14.
Braz. arch. biol. technol ; 51(5): 1049-1055, Sept.-Oct. 2008. tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-495834

ABSTRACT

The aim of this work was to study the occurrence of Aeromonas sp in the bottled mineral water, well water and tap water from the municipal supplies. Positive samples were found for Aeromonas spp. 12.7 percent from the mineral water, 8.3 percent from the artesian water and 6.5 percent from the tap water. The recovery of Aeromonas spp. was significantly higher in the bottled mineral and artesian water than in the tap water from municipal supplies. The occurrence of the Aeromonas spp. did not correlate significantly with the contamination indicator bacteria (i.e. total coliforms) in the artesian water samples. However, a significant correlation was found between Aeromonas spp. and total coliforms in the both mineral water and tap water samples. The presence or absence of a correlation between the indicator bacteria and Aeromonas could reflect the occasional appearance of the pathogen in the drinking water and the different rates of survival and recovery of these agents compared with those fecal indicators. The finding that 41.6, 14.8 and 9.0 percent of the artesian water, bottled mineral water and tap water, respectively, sampled in the current study failed to meet the Brazilian standard for total coliforms in the drinking water should therefore be of concern.


A porcentagem de amostras positivas para Aeromonas foi de 12.7 por cento para água mineral, 8.3 por cento para água de poço artesiano e 6.5 por cento para água do sistema público de abastecimento. O isolamento de Aeromonas spp. foi significativamente maior em água mineral e água de poço artesiano do que em água do sistema público. A ocorrência de Aeromonas spp. não teve correlação significativa com os indicadores de contaminação tradicionalmente utilizados (coliformes totais) em amostras de água de poço artesiano. No entanto, esta correlação foi positiva e significativa em água mineral e água do sistema público. A presença ou ausência de correlação entre bactérias indicadoras e a presença de Aeromonas pode refletir o aparecimento ocasional de patógenos em águas para consumo humano e as diferentes taxas de sobrevivência e isolamento destes agentes comparados com os indicadores fecais de contaminação. A constatação de que 41.6 por cento, 14.8 por cento e 9.0 por cento respectivamente amostras de água de poço, água mineral e água do abastecimento público utilizadas neste estudo apresentaram índices de coliformes maiores do que os aceitáveis pela legislação brasileira é um fato preocupante. Estes números mostram a necessidade de melhoria nos sistemas de monitoramento para a indústria de águas minerais e o sistema público de abastecimento. As cepas isoladas pertencentes ao gênero Aeromonas foram identificadas ao nível de espécie como A. hydrophila e A. jandaei. A significância do grande número de isolamentos de espécies de Aeromonas em saúde pública ainda não está clara. É necessário o estudo dos efeitos de cepas específicas utilizando modelos animais de infecção. Estes resultados podem contribuir para a reavaliação dos critérios empregados para a análise da qualidade microbiológica da água e a definição de limites de densidades para o gênero Aeromonas em águas destinadas ao consumo humano.

15.
Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz ; 103(3): 277-281, May 2008. ilus, graf, tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-485220

ABSTRACT

The antimicrobial activity of copaiba oils was tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeast, and dermatophytes. Oils obtained from Copaifera martii, Copaifera officinalis, and Copaifera reticulata (collected in the state of Acre) were active against Gram-positive species (Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, and Enterococcus faecalis) with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 31.3-62.5 µg/ml. The oils showed bactericidal activity, decreasing the viability of these Gram-positive bacteria within 3 h. Moderate activity was observed against dermatophyte fungi (Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum canis). The oils showed no activity against Gram-negative bacteria and yeast. Scannning electron microscopy of S. aureus treated with resin oil from C. martii revealed lysis of the bacteria, causing cellular agglomerates. Transmission electron microscopy revealed disruption and damage to the cell wall, resulting in the release of cytoplasmic compounds, alterations in morphology, and a decrease in cell volume, indicating that copaiba oil may affect the cell wall.


Subject(s)
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology , Antifungal Agents/pharmacology , Arthrodermataceae/drug effects , Balsams/pharmacology , Gram-Negative Bacteria/drug effects , Gram-Positive Bacteria/drug effects , Anti-Bacterial Agents/isolation & purification , Antifungal Agents/isolation & purification , Arthrodermataceae/ultrastructure , Brazil , Balsams/isolation & purification , Fabaceae/chemistry , Fabaceae/classification , Gram-Negative Bacteria/ultrastructure , Gram-Positive Bacteria/ultrastructure , Microbial Sensitivity Tests , Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
16.
Braz. arch. biol. technol ; 50(1): 1-9, Jan. 2007. tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-452542

ABSTRACT

The main objective of this study was to analyse the occurrence of yeasts and filamentous fungi in drinking water as well as to investigate their correlation with the indicator bacteria of faecal pollution. Yeasts were detected in 36.6 percent and 11.6 percent of the bottled mineral on water dispensers and tap water samples from municipal system, respectively. Twenty-one (35.0 percent) of bottled mineral water and two (3.3 percent) of tap water samples were positive for filamentous fungi. For bottled mineral water 12 (20.0 percent) of 60 samples were positive for total coliform, compared with 3(5.0 percent)out of 60 samples from tap water. The mineral water from dispensers was more contaminated than tap water. Strains belonging to the genera Candida identified to the species level were C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata and C. albicans. Thus, bottled mineral water from water dispensers and tap water could be considered a possible transmission route for filamentous fungi and yeasts, and could constitute a potential health hazard, mainly to immunocompromised indivuals.


O principal objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a prevalência de leveduras e fungos filamentosos em água potável, bem como investigar suas correlações com bactérias indicadoras de contaminação fecal. Leveduras foram detectadas em 36,6 por cento e 11,6 por cento das amostras de água mineral de garrafão em dispensadores de água e água de torneira do sistema municipal, respectivamente. Vinte e uma (35,5 por cento) das amostras de água mineral de garrafão e duas (3,3 por cento) das amostras de água de torneira foram positivas para fungos filamentosos. Para água mineral de garrafão, 12 (20.0 por cento) das 60 amostras foram positivas para coliforme total, comparado com 3 (5.0 por cento) das 60 amostras de água de torneira. A água coletada de garrafões de água mineral dos dispensadores foi marcadamente mais contaminada que as amostras de água de torneira. Candida spp identificadas ao nível de espécie foram C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata e C. albicans. Como está sendo reportado, água mineral de garrafão em dispensador e água de torneira pode ser considerada como possíveis vias de transmissão de fungos filamentosos e leveduras, e podem constituir um potencial risco para a saúde, principalmente de pessoas imunocomprometidas.


Subject(s)
Candida , Drinking Water , Fungi , Immunity , Immunocompromised Host , Microbiology , Water Pollution
17.
Braz. arch. biol. technol ; 49(2): 215-218, Mar. 2006. tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-426748

ABSTRACT

O efeito anti-obesidade, anorexigeno, diurético e anti-hiperlipêmico de folhas secas pulverizadas de Cordia salicifolia Cham (CS) foi investigado. CS foi dissolvida em água e administrada (20 mg.Kg-1.dia-1) por gavagem durante 13 dias. A dose utilizada correspondente à empregada no Brasil. Contrariamente ao uso popular, o efeito anti-obesidade, anorexigeno e diurético não foi observado. Porém, observamos efeito hipolipidêmico em ratos normais e portadores de diabetes induzidos por aloxana.

18.
Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz ; 100(4): 397-401, July 2005. ilus, graf
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-405995

ABSTRACT

We report the effect of Stryphnodendron adstringens on the trypanosomatid Herpetomonas samuelpessoai. The parasites were grown at 28ºC in a chemically defined medium containing crude extract and fractions at concentrations from 100 to 5000 µg/ml obtained from S. adstringens. Concentrations of 500, 1000, 2500, and 5000 µg/ml both crude extract and semi-purified fraction progressively inhibited the protozoans' growth. At a concentration of 100 µg/ml, crude extract or a semi-purified (F3) fraction did not affect the growth of the protozoans. The F3-9 - F3-12 sub-fractions, at a concentration of 1000 µg/ml, also showed increased inhibitory activity on H. samuelpessoai. The IC50 of the crude extract and the F3 fraction were 538 and 634 µg/ml, respectively. Ultrastructural and enzymatic alterations in the trypanosomatids were also evaluated. H. samuelpessoai cultivated in the presence of IC50 crude extract showed considerable ultrastructural alterations, such as marked mitochondrial swelling with a large number of cristae and evident Golgi complex vesiculation, as observed by transmission electron microscopy. Cells exposed to 538 µg/ml of crude extract at 28ºC for 72 h, showed decreased activity of the enzyme succinate cytochrome c reductase, a typical mitochondrion marker, as compared to untreated cells.


Subject(s)
Animals , Fabaceae/chemistry , Trypanosomatina/drug effects , Microscopy, Electron , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Time Factors , Trypanosomatina/growth & development , Trypanosomatina/ultrastructure
19.
Braz. arch. biol. technol ; 48(3): 429-436, May 2005.
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-415309

ABSTRACT

O presente estudo foi conduzido para avaliar a atividade antibacteriana dos extratos etanol:água e aquoso das folhas, raízes e casca do caule de Psidium guajava L. As atividades antibacterianas dos extratos contra as bactérias foram testados usando o ensaio de microdiluição em caldo. O extrato aquoso das folhas, raízes e casca do caule de P. guajava foram ativos contra as bactérias Gram-positivas Staphylococcus aureus (CIMs=500, 125 e 250 µg/ml, respectivamente) e Bacillus subtilis (CIMs=500 µg/ml), e foram inativas contras as bactérias Gram-negativas Escherichia coli e Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CIMs >1000 µg/ml). Os extratos etanol:água apresentaram maior atividade quando comparados com os extratos aquosos. Com base nestes resultados, o extrato de folhas de P. guajava foi fracionado em cromatografia em coluna de sílica gel em um bioensaio de fracionamento direcionado, produzindo uma mistura de flavonoides, uma mistura de a e b-amirina e b-sitosterol. A mistura de flavonoides mostrou boa atividade sobre S. aureus com CIM de 25 µg/ml. O b-sitosterol foi inativo para todas as bactérias testadas.

20.
RBCF, Rev. bras. ciênc. farm. (Impr.) ; 41(1): 85-94, jan.-mar. 2005. tab
Article in English | LILACS | ID: lil-419777

ABSTRACT

Este estudo descreve a triagem de extratos obtidos de 19 espécies de plantas usadas na medicina tradicional brasileira para o tratamento de várias doenças. Os extratos foram testados contra formas amastigota axênica e promastigota de Leishmania (L.) amazonensis, e formas epimastigota de Trypanosoma cruzi in vitro na concentração de 100 mg/ml. Baccharis trimera, Cymbopogon citratus, Matricaria chamomilla, Mikania glomerata, Ocimum gratissimum, Piper regnellii, Prunus domestica, Psidium guajava, Sambucus canadensis, Stryphnodendron adstringens, Tanacetum parthenium, e Tanacetum vulgare apresentaram efeito significante contra um ou ambos parasitas, com a porcentagem de inibição de crescimento entre 49,5 e 99%. Os extratos não mostraram efeito citotóxico em hemácias de carneiro. Essas plantas medicinais podem ser fontes alternativas de novos compostos clinicamente ativos contra L. amazonensis e T. cruzi.


Subject(s)
Leishmania , Plant Extracts , Plants, Medicinal , Trypanosoma cruzi
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