ABSTRACT
Species of the genus Qualea are used by the Brazilian public as a natural anti-inflammatory. Based on this evidence, we evaluated the effects of terpene fractions (F and TF) obtained from Qualea multiflora on nitric oxide production (Griess assay), cytokines (IL-1, IL-10, IL-12, and TNF-α) and the transcription factor NF-B by peritoneal macrophages. Since there is a relationship between inflammation and cancer, the cytotoxicity of F and TF against mammary tumoural cell lineage, and macrophages was evaluated. Inhibition levels close to 90% of the production of NO, IL-1, IL-12 and TNF-α; about 32% of NF-B; and a large stimulation of IL-10 production (close to the positive control) by peritoneal macrophages were observed in response to F and TF which are correlated with anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, the samples showed exceptional cytotoxic activity against tumoural cells but not against macrophages. Since anti-inflammatory activity is important in tumour inhibition, further examination of potential anti-cancerous activity of Qualea multiflora is warranted.