Kalanchoe laciniata and Bryophyllum pinnatum: an updated review about ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology

Abstract The species Kalanchoe laciniata (L.) DC. and Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam) Pers. are native from Brazil and Madagascar, respectively. Both belonging to the Crassulaceae family and being widely used by population as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. These species have similar leaf morphology and for this reason, they are known by the same popular name as " saião " or " coirama ". Several studies have been published involving different parts and preparations of these species. Therefore, this review aims to provide an update overview about the traditional uses, chemical constitution, pharmacology and toxicology of K. laciniata and B. pinnatum species. An extensive literature review was conducted in different scientific databases. Various chemical constituents have been identified in extracts from different parts of K. laciniata and B. pinnatum , being flavonoids the major compounds. They have been traditionally used to treat inflammation, microbial infection, pain, respiratory diseases, gastritis, ulcers, diabetes and cancer tumors. Non-clinical in vitro assays evaluated mainly the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, while in vivo assays evaluated the leishmanicide, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Regarding toxicity, few studies have been conducted for the two species. The information reported in this work might contribute to the recognition of the importance of K. laciniata and B. pinnatum species, as well as to direct further studies. (AU)

Vegetable moisturizing raw material from "Caatinga" Brazilian biome: safety and efficacy evaluations of O/W cosmetic emulsions containing Kalanchoe brasiliensis extract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of Kalanchoe brasiliensis extract, followed by the development of an oil in water emulsion containing the K. brasiliensis leaves extract and evaluating its clinical moisturizing efficacy. The formulations containing sodium acrylates/ Beheneth-25 methacrylate Crosspolymer (and) hydrogenated polydecene (and) lauryl glucoside and 0.5% of extract were prepared. The extract was considered as non-irritating through skin irritant tests. The stability testing was carried out in different conditions for 90 days. The skin hydration was measured by capacitance measurement and transepidermal water loss using biophysical techniques. The results indicate that the formulation containing 0.5% of extract increased the hydration of the stratum corneum up to 5 h after application on the forearm. The transepidermal water loss was reduced when compared to the untreated area and placebo area. Therefore, we can conclude that the increased skin hydration and protection of barrier function can be attributed to the K. brasiliensis extract. This research presents a new raw material from the Brazilian Caatinga biome and shows its possible application in the development of cosmetic products.

Efficacy of a Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri extract to control bacterial biofilms and dental calculus in dogs / Eficácia do extrato de Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri no controle do biofilme bacteriano e cálculo dentário em cães

An aqueous leaf extract of the medicinal species Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri (here denominated KGB) has been found to be effective as an antimicrobial agent against canine oral cavity bacteria in in vitro assays. In this study, we investigated the effect of topic oral administration of KGB on the development of dental biofilm in Beagle dogs. The experiments were performed with an experimental group (0.2% of KGB extract), a negative control group (0.9% of saline solution) and a positive control group (0.12% chlorhexidine). Each treatment was sprayed into the oral cavity daily for 28 days. Thirty Beagle dogs with similar characteristics and kept under the same management and diet were used. The measurement of dental plaque and calculus was performed using a computerized analytical method. The phenolic profile of KGB extract was analyzed by HPLC-DAD. KGB extract at 0.2% showed efficacy in controlling the formation of plaque compared to the negative control group, and dental calculus in relation to the negative and positive control groups. A significant difference was observed among these three groups. Peaks attributed to flavonoids and phenolic acids were identified in the HPLC-DAD chromatogram of the KGB extract. The presence of these substances could be related to the activity observed. Our findings demonstrate that treatment with KGB is effective in controlling periodontal disease in dogs, providing new insights into the medicinal properties of this plant. KGB extract has a potential use as a supplemental agent in pharmaceutical products for the prevention of periodontal disease.(AU)

Um extrato aquoso de folhas da espécie medicinal Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri (aqui denominado como KGB) foi efetivo como um agente antimicrobiano contra as bactérias da cavidade oral de cães em testes in vitro. Neste estudo, investigou-se o efeito da administração oral tópica de KGB sobre o desenvolvimento do biofilme dental em cães da raça Beagle. Os experimentos foram realizados com um grupo experimental (0,2% de extrato de KGB), um grupo controle negativo (0,9% de solução salina) e um grupo controle positivo (0,12% de gluconato de clorexidina). Cada tratamento foi aplicado no interior da cavidade oral diariamente durante 28 dias. Foram utilizados trinta cães da raça Beagle com características semelhantes e mantidos sob o mesmo manejo e dieta. A medição da placa bacteriana e cálculo dentários foi realizada utilizando-se um método de análise computadorizada. O perfil fenólico do extrato de KGB foi analisado por HPLC-DAD. O extrato de KGB a 0,2% mostrou eficácia no controle da formação de placa bacteriana em comparação com o grupo controle negativo, e de cálculo dentário em relação aos grupos controle negativo e positivo. Uma diferença significativa foi observada entre esses três grupos. Picos atribuídos a flavonoides e ácidos fenólicos foram identificados no cromatograma de HPLC-DAD do extrato de KGB. A presença de tais substâncias pode estar relacionada com a atividade observada. Os resultados demonstram que o tratamento com KGB é eficaz no controle da doença periodontal em cães, fornecendo novas perspectivas sobre as propriedades medicinais desta planta. O extrato de KGB tem uma utilização potencial como um agente suplementar em produtos farmacêuticos para a prevenção da doença periodontal.(AU)

Mecanismos de ação relacionados à atividade antiúlcera de Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. (Crassulaceae) / Mechanisms of action underlying antiulcer activity of Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. (Crassulaceae).

Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. (Crassulaceae) é uma espécie muito empregada na medicina tradicional no Brasil e em outras partes do mundo, especialmente Índia, países da África e China. É indicada popularmente para diversos fins incluindo o tratamento de úlceras gástricas. A análise fitoquímica revelou a presença de vários constituintes, em especial os flavonoides. O tratamento de úlcera gástrica convencional apresenta diversos efeitos colaterais e, na maioria das vezes, não evita a recidiva da lesão. Dessa maneira, é interessante encontrar uma terapêutica mais segura e efetiva. Com o objetivo de avaliar a segurança, foi realizado ensaio de citotoxicidade do extrato bruto, in vitro, com valor de IC50 igual a 0,926 mg/mL, sendo possível predizer um valor de LD50 (1341,46 mg/kg). Já em relação ao ensaio de citotoxicidade, in vitro, da fração acetato de etila não foi encontrado um valor de IC50. Resultados de fototoxicidade, in vitro, mostraram que o extrato bruto e fração acetato de etila de K. pinnata não possuem potencial fototóxico. A contagem microbiana na droga vegetal para bactérias aeróbias/mesófilas foi de 6,9 x 104 UFC/g e a contagem de bolores e leveduras foi de 2,4 x 103 UFC/g, ambos valores dentro do limite estabelecido pela OMS. Análise de endotoxinas também foi realizada para o extrato bruto (<4,0.105 UE/kg) e fração acetato de etila (<2,7.105 EU/kg) de K. pinnata. Referente à fitoquímica, diversos flavonoides foram identificados no extrato bruto e fração acetato de etila de K. pinnata. Paralelamente ao estudo fitoquímico foi verificado que a atividade gastroprotetora do extrato bruto envolve a ação das prostaglandinas e grupamentos sulfidrila. Já o mecanismo de gastroproteção da fração acetato de etila é dependente de prostaglandinas e óxido nítrico. A atividade cicatrizante do extrato bruto de K. pinnata também foi avaliada. De acordo com os resultados macroscópicos, as doses de 200mg/kg e 400 mg/kg reduziram a área de lesão, com uma taxa de 33% e 39%, respectivamente, após 7 dias de tratamento (p<0,05). Análise histológica dos grupos tratados com o extrato bruto (200 e 400 mg/kg) indicou melhor recuperação da lesão, verificada pela regeneração da mucosa gástrica e pelo restabelecimento da arquitetura glandular. As enzimas antioxidantes (catalase, superóxido dismutase e glutationa peroxidase) e a expressão de VEGF foram avaliadas no mecanismo de cicatrização de úlceras gástricas. Os resultados mostraram que a atividade antiulcerogênica foi mediada pela ação antioxidante da enzima SOD. Não foi evidenciado in vivo o aumento da expressão de VEGF e nem o sequestro do radical peroxil nos animais tratados com o extrato bruto. Os resultados dos ensaios in vitro (ORAC) mostraram uma maior capacidade de sequestro de radicais peroxil da fração acetato de etila (1192,35 ± 112,61 µmol equivalente de Trolox/g de amostra seca) quando comparado com o extrato bruto (431,32 ± 7,17 µmol equivalente de Trolox/g de amostra seca). A atividade anti Helicobacter pylori também foi avaliada, no entanto, o extrato bruto não apresentou atividade anti H.pylori. Ademais, o extrato bruto demonstrou um potencial anti-inflamatório, pois foi observada uma redução nos níveis de TNF-α e L-selectina, após o tratamento em neutrófilos estimulados com LPS. Analisando os resultados sugere-se que K. pinnata possui um potencial terapêutico no combate de úlceras gástricas e possivelmente, anti-inflamatório, sendo que os flavonoides podem estar relacionados com o efeito biológico observado.

Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. (Crassulaceae) is a commonly used species in traditional medicine in Brazil and in other parts of the world, especially India, Africa and China, for the treatment of various diseases, including gastric ulcers. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of several constituents in this plant, especially flavonoids. The available pharmaceutical products to treat peptic ulcer have several side effects and, in most cases, do not prevent recurrence of the gastric lesions. Therefore, it is important to find a safer and more effective therapy. In order to evaluate safety, the in vitro cytotoxicity assay of crude extract from K. pinnata was performed. The IC50 value was 0,926 mg/mL corresponding to LD50 value (1341, 46 mg/kg). It was not determined IC50 value in vitro cytotoxicity assay for ethyl acetate fraction from K. pinnata. Neither the crude extract nor ethyl acetate fraction from K. pinnata showed phototoxicity. Microbial counting was performed on the K. pinnata-based drug in order to investigate microbiological contamination. The microbial count for aerobic / mesophilic bacteria was 6.9 x 104 CFU/g, and yeast count was 2.4 x 103 CFU/g, both values in agreement with the limits established by WHO. Endotoxin analysis was also performed for the crude extract (<4,0.105 UE/kg) and for ethyl acetate fraction (<2,7.105 UE/kg) from K. pinnata. In the phytochemical analysis several flavonoids were identified in the crude extract and ethyl acetate fraction of K. pinnata. In parallel to the phytochemical study, it was verified that the gastroprotective activity of the crude extract of K. pinnata involved prostaglandins and sulfhydril compounds. On the other hand, the mechanism of gastroprotection of the ethyl acetate fraction of K. pinnata is dependent on prostaglandins and nitric oxide. The healing activity of the crude extract of K. pinnata was also evaluated. According to the macroscopic results the dose of 200 mg/kg and 400mg/kg reduced the injury area, with a rate of 33% and 39%, respectively, after 7 days of treatment (p <0.05). Histological analysis showed regeneration of the gastric mucosa and re-establishment of the glandular architecture in groups treated with the crude extract (200 and 400 mg/kg). Antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) and VEGF expression were evaluated in the mechanism of gastric ulcer healing. The results showed that the antiulcerogenic activity was mediated by SOD. It was not demonstrated an increase in VEGF expression and nor in the in vivo sequestration of the peroxyl radical in the animals treated with crude extract. The results of in vitro assay (ORAC) showed a greater sequestering of peroxyl radical to the ethyl acetate fraction (1192,35 ± 112,61 µmol equivalent of Trolox/g of ethyl acetate fraction) when compared to the crude extract (431,32 ± 7,17 µmol equivalent of Trolox/g of crude extract) of K. pinnata. The anti Helicobacter pylori activity was also evaluated; however, the crude extract did not show anti H. pylori activity. However, the crude extract of K. pinnata demonstrated an anti-inflammatory potential, because TNF-α and L-selectin levels were reduced after treatment in LPS-stimulated neutrophils. The analysis of the results suggests that K. pinnata has a therapeutic potential against gastric ulcers and possible anti-inflammatory properties, and the flavonoids may be linked to the biological effect.

Gastroprotective activity of the hydroethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction from Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam. ) Pers

ABSTRACT Peptic ulcers are an important pathology, and the search for safer and more effective treatment methods is of paramount importance. In this study, we assess the gastroprotective effects of the hydroethanolic extract (HE) and ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) from Kalanchoe pinnata leaves against an ethanol/HCl-induced ulcer model in rats. The HE reduced gastric lesions by approximately 47% (400 mg/kg). A significant inhibition of the gastric lesions by 50% was observed after pretreatment with the EAF (200 mg/kg). Quercetrin and quercetin 3-O-α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside were isolated and identified in the flavonoid fraction (EAF) by HPLC and NMR analyses because this fraction showed the highest gastroprotective effect. This fraction demonstrated high antioxidant activities (CE50=41.91 µg/mL) by DPPH in comparison with Trolox(r) and 11.33 mmol Trolox(r) equivalent by ORAC. In conclusion, the HE and FAE from K. pinnata displayed gastroprotective activity in rats, most likely due to the presence of flavonoids.

Flavonoid Compounds from the Leaves of Kalanchoe prolifera and Their Cytotoxic Activity against P-388 Murine Leukimia Cells

Seven flavonoid compounds, kaempferol (1), quercetin (2), quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside (5), quercetin-3-O-sophoroside (6) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (7), were isolated from the methanolic extract of leaves of Kalanchoe prolifera. Compounds 1-7 were isolated for first time from this plant. These compounds were evaluated their cytotoxic activity against P-388 murine leukimia cells in vitro. Among those compounds kaempferol (1) and quercetin (2) showed strongest cytotoxic activity with IC₅₀ values of 4.45 ± 0.05 and 6.28 ± 0.02 µg/mL, respectively.

Análise da ação do gel da Bryophyllum calycinum Salisb (folha santa) associado ao ultrassom na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas / Analysis of the action of Bryophyllum calycinum Salisb (holy sheet) gel associated with ultrasound in skin wound healing

Introdução: A cicatrização é uma cascata de eventos celulares que interagem para que ocorra a reconstituição do tecido. Objetivo: Analisar a ação do gel da Bryophyllum calycinum Salisb, associado ao ultrassom pulsado, na cicatrização de feridas. Métodos: Vinte ratos foram feridos, divididos em quatro grupos, tratados e observados diariamente. O Grupo1 não recebeu nenhum tratamento; o 2 foi tratado com ultrassom (modo pulsado 10%, frequência de 1 MHz, intensidade de 0,5 W/cm2, método de acoplamento direto com movimentos oscilatórios numa ERA de 1 cm2, durante dois minutos) + gel da B. calycinum Salisb a 2%; o 3, com gel da B. calycinum Salisb a 2%; o 4, com ultrassom. Resultados: O Grupo 2 teve maior redução das áreas feridas, diminuição do colágeno tipo III e aumento do tipo I, quando comparado ao controle. Conclusões: O gel da folha santa associado ao ultrassom é capaz de acelerar o processo de cicatrização tecidual.

Introduction: Healing is a cascade of cellular events that interact to occur replenish the tissue. Objective: To analyze the action of the Bryophyllum calycinum Salisb gel associated with the pulsed ultrasound in wound healing. Methods: Twenty rats were wounded and divided into four groups. After this, they were treated and observed daily. Group 1 did not receive any treatment; Group 2 was treated with ultrasound (10% pulsed mode, frequency of 1 MHz intensity of 0.5 W / cm2, direct coupling method with an oscillatory motion was 1 cm2 for two minutes) + Gel B. calycinum Salisb 2%; Group 3, with B. calycinum Salisb gel 2%; and Group 4, with ultrasound. Results: Group 2 had a greater reduction in wound areas, a decrease of type III collagen and an increase of the type I when compared to the control group. Conclusions: The gel of the holy sheet associated with ultrasound is able to accelerate the wound healing process.

Callogenesis in leaves of Kalanchoe pinnata Lam. by 2, 4-D and BA action / Calogênese em folhas de Kalanchoe pinnata Lam. pela ação de 2, 4-D e BAP

The Kalanchoe pinnata Lam. is a bush species of the Crassulaceae that is distinguished by its important medicinal properties. Its leaves are used as cataplasm to treat headaches and wounds. There is evidence for a hypotensive and anti-inflammatory effect. Techniques of plant tissue culture have been applied to plant species that produce substances likely to be explored in pharmacology, cell suspension being the main technique. At the industrial level, this method utilizes bioreactors in order to produce secondary metabolites on a large scale. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of in vitro combinations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxiacetic acid (2,4-D) and benzylaminopurine (BA) on callus induction in leaf explants of K. pinnata. Leaf fragments were inoculated in MS medium supplemented with 3.0% sucrose, 0.8% agar and factorial combinations of 2,4-D (0.00, 4.52, 9.06, 18.12 µM) and BA (0.00, 4.44, 8.88, 17.76 µM). The cultures were kept in the darkness at 24±2ºC for 50 days. The percentage of callus induction and the area of explants covered by callus cells were evaluated. In the absence of growth regulators, callus induction did not occur, with necrosis of all explants. The highest percentage of callus induction was 100%, obtained with the combination of 9.06 µM 2,4-D and 8.88 µM BA, but the calluses covered only 25% of the leaf area. The most efficient combination was 4.52 µM 2,4-D and 8.88 µM BA, resulting in 91% callus induction with 50 to 100% of the explants being covered by callus cells.

Kalanchoe pinnata Lam. é uma espécie arbustiva da família Crassulaceae que apresenta interessantes propriedades medicinais. Suas folhas são utilizadas em cataplasma para tratar enxaqueca e ferimentos. Há evidência de seu efeito como hipotensiva e anti-inflamatória. Técnicas de cultura de tecidos vegetais têm sido aplicadas para espécies que possuem substâncias passíveis de exploração na farmacologia, sendo a suspensão celular a principal técnica utilizada. A nível industrial, este método utiliza biorreatores para produzir metabólitos secundários em larga escala. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos in vitro de combinações do ácido 2,4-diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D) e de benzilaminopurina (BAP) na indução de calos em explantes foliares de K. pinnata. Fragmentos foliares foram inoculados em meio MS contendo 3% de sacarose, 0,8% de ágar e combinações fatoriais de 2,4-D (0,00; 4,52; 9,06 e 18,12 µM) e BAP (0,00; 4,44; 8,88 e 17,76 µM). Os cultivos foram mantidos no escuro, a 24±2ºC por 50 dias. A porcentagem de indução de calos e a área dos explantes coberta por células de calos foram avaliadas. Na ausência de reguladores de crescimento não ocorreu indução de calos, com necrose de todos os explantes. A porcentagem mais alta de indução de calos foi de 100%, obtida com a combinação de 9,06 µM de 2,4-D e 8,88 µM de BAP, mas estes calos cobriram apenas 25% da área foliar. A combinação mais eficiente foi de 9,06 µM de 2,4-D e 8,88 µM de BAP, que resultou em 91% de indução e 50 a 100% da área dos explantes coberta por células de calos.

Analysis of gene expression in Kalanchoe daigremontiana leaves during plantlet formation under drought stress

Background: Kalanchoe daigremontiana is an attractive model system for the study of the molecular mechanisms of somatic embryogenesis and organogenesis competence due to its formation of plantlets with adventitious roots on the leaf margins that are derived from somatic embryos. The suppression subtractive hybridization technique was used to investigate gene expression during asexual reproduction. Leaves from plants subjected to drought stress provided the source of ‘Tester’ DNA, and leaves from plants grown under normal conditions provided the ‘Driver’ DNA for subtractive hybridization. Results: A total of 481 high quality ESTs were generated, which clustered into 390 unigenes. Of these unigenes, 132 grouped into 12 functional categories, suggesting that asexual reproduction is a complicated process involving a large number of genes. The expression characteristics of selected genes from the SSH library were determined by real-time PCR and were classified into five groups, suggesting that gene expression patterns during asexual reproduction are complex. Up-regulation of S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase suggested that a decrease in cytokinin levels promotes the initiation of plantlet formation. Many other genes, such as inorganic pyrophosphatase and glutamate decarboxylase, play important roles in gene regulation during asexual reproduction. Conclusion: Our results provide a framework and unified platform on which future research on asexual reproduction in K. daigremontiana can be based. This represents the first genome-wide study of asexual reproduction in K. daigremontiana.

Atividade antiulcerogênica do extrato aquoso da Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam. ) Kurz / Antiulcerogenic activity of aqueous extract from Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam. ) Kurz

Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz pertence a família Crassulaceae e é conhecida vulgarmente como coirama, folha-da-fortuna, ou folha-do-ar, sendo usada popularmente como antifúngico, no tratamento da hipertensão, em úlceras e em inflamações. O presente estudo objetivou analisar a atividade antiulcerogênica do extrato aquoso das folhas de Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz em modelo de úlcera gástrica induzida por indometacina em Rattus norvegicus, machos (150 a 250 g) com idade de 70 dias. Os animais receberam por via oral: água, extrato aquoso de Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz (1 e 2 g Kg-1 ) ou ranitidina (60 mg Kg-1 ), fármaco com ação gastroprotetora conhecida que atua bloqueando os receptores de histamina H2. Após uma hora dos tratamentos, todos animais receberam indometacina via intraperitoneal. Os resultados demonstraram que o extrato aquoso da Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz possui ação gastroprotetora; na dose de 1 g Kg-1 inibiu 45,49% o índice de ulceração induzido pela indometacina, e, na dose de 2 g Kg-1, inibiu 49,50%. Sugere-se o envolvimento de vários mecanismos na ação gastroprotetora dessa planta e não somente uma possível participação das prostaglandinas nesse efeito. Estudos futuros com diferentes modelos de indução de úlcera gástrica tornam-se necessários para melhor avaliar a atividade antiulcerogênica do extrato aquoso de Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz.

Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz belongs to the family Crassulaceae, is popularly known as "coirama", "folha-da-fortuna", or "folha-do-ar" and has been commonly used as antifungal, in the treatment of hypertension, ulcers and inflammation. The present study aimed to analyze the antiulcerogenic activity of aqueous extract from the leaves of Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz using indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer models in Rattus norvegicus, males (150-250 g) aged 70 days old. The animals received by the oral route: water, aqueous extract from Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz (1 and 2 g Kg-1) or ranitidine (60 mg Kg-1), a drug with known gastroprotective action, blocking histamine H2-receptors. After one hour of treatments, all animals received indomethacin by the intraperitoneal route. Results demonstrated that the aqueous extract from Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz has gastroprotective action; at 1g kg-1 it inhibited 45.49% of the indomethacin-induced ulcer index, while at 2g Kg-1 it inhibited 49.50%. Several mechanisms of actions are suggested to be involved in the gastroprotective action of this plant, besides the possible participation of prostaglandins in this effect. Further studies using different gastric ulcer-induction models are needed to better evaluate the antiulcerogenic activity of aqueous extract from Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Kurz.

Studies on the anti-asthmatic and antitussive properties of aqueous leaf extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum in rodent species

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the antiasthmatic and antitussive properties of the aqueous leaf extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum (B. pinnatum) (BP) Lam.@*METHODS@#Ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs which were treated with BP for 21 consecutive days were exposed to 0.2% histamine aerosol in a glass chamber. Mucus viscosity, white blood cell and lymphocyte counts and tracheal wall morphometry were measured. Bouts of cough were counted pre and post acute exposure of extract-treated (× 7 d) guinea pigs to 7.5% citric acid aerosol in a chamber. Phenol red expectoration was estimated in mice after 7 d of daily administration of BP.@*RESULTS@#Doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg/day (×21 d) BP significantly increased the time for guinea pigs to experience preconvulsive dyspnoea. BP and salbutamol (0.5 mg/kg/day ×21 d) reduced mucus viscosity in the sensitized group to values comparable with controls. White blood cell, lymphocyte counts and tracheal morphometry were not significantly altered. Both doses of BP also significantly reduced the bouts of cough but only 400 mg/kg/day significantly inhibited the amount of phenol red secreted.@*CONCLUSIONS@#BP has demonstrated antiasthmatic and antitussive properties in these rodent models. These properties may underscore its use in Nigerian ethnomedicine.

Métodos para la detección de Agrobacterium a partir de muestras de material vegetal, suelo y agua / Methods for the detection of Agrobacterium from plant, soil and water samples

El género Agrobacterium incluye especies ftopatógenas que inducen la formación de agallas en el cuello o la proliferación de raíces en cabellera en más de 600 especies de dicotiledóneas, y especies no patógenas cuyo hábitat natural es el suelo. Como no es posible erradicar a las especies patógenas y habida cuenta de que más del 80 % de las infecciones puede provenir de viveros, es importante evitar la diseminación de la enfermedad. Por ello, el objetivo de este trabajo ha sido desarrollar técnicas sensibles y precisas que, aisladamente o combinadas, permitan detectar la presencia de especies y biovares de Agrobacterium a partir de muestras de material vegetal, suelo y agua. Se comprobó que con la estrategia combinada de realizar aislamientos en los medios semiselectivos D1, D1-M y YEM-RCT; PCR multiplex sobre el gen 23S ADNr; PCR específca sobre los genes virC1 y virC2 y bioensayos en plántulas de pimiento cv. California Wonder y en hojas cortadas de kalanchoe, se reduce la posibilidad de obtener falsos negativos y/o falsos positivos. Por lo expuesto, esta combinación de técnicas constituye una herramienta adecuada para el diagnóstico de cepas patógenas de Agrobacterium a partir de distintos tipos de muestras.

The genus Agrobacterium includes phytopathogenic bacteria that induce the development of root crown galls and/or aerial galls at the base of the stem or hairy roots on more than 600 species of plants belonging to 90 dicotyledonous families and non-pathogenic species. These bacteria being natural soil inhabitants are particularly diffcult to eradicate, which is a problem in nurseries where more than 80% of infections occur. Since early detection is crucial to avoid the inadvertent spread of the disease, the aim of this work was to develop sensitive and precise identifcation techniques by using a set of semi-selective and differential culture media in combination with a specifc PCR to amplify a partial sequence derived from the virC operon, as well as a multiplex PCR on the basis of 23SrDNA sequences, and biological assays to identify and differentiate species and biovars of Agrobacterium obtained either from soil, water or plant samples. The combination of the different assays allowed us to reduce the number of false positive and negative results from bacteria isolated from any of the three types of samples. Therefore, the combination of multiplex PCR, specifc PCR, isolations in semi-selective D1, D1-M and YEM-RCT media combined with bioassays on cut leaves of Kalanchoe and seedlings of California Wonder pepper cultivar constitute an accurate tool to detect species and biovars of Agrobacterium for diagnostic purposes.

Chemical and agronomic development of Kalanchoe brasiliensis Camb. and Kalanchoe pinnata (Lamk.) Pers under light and temperature levels

This study compares the development of Kalanchoe brasiliensis and Kalanchoe pinnata, which are medicinal species known as "saião" and "folha da fortuna" that are used interchangeably by the population for medicinal purposes. The experiment consisted of 20 plots/species planted in plastic bags with homogeneous substrate in a randomized design, which grown under light levels (25 percent, 50 percent, 70 percent, full sunlight) at environment temperature, and a treatment under a plastic with greater temperature range than the external environment. It was obtained for K. pinnata a greater plant height, total length of sprouts, stems, production and dry matter content of leaves than that obtained for K. brasiliensis, which achieved higher averages only for the length of lateral branches. The species showed increases in height, which varied in inverse proportion to the light, and it was observed the influence of temperature in K. pinnata. The production and dry matter content of leaves were proportional to the luminosity; the same occurred in the thickness of leaves for K. brasiliensis. In the swelling index and Brix degree, K. brasiliensis showed higher averages than K. pinnata. In relation to the total content of flavonoids it was not observed significant differences for both species. The analyzed parameters showed the main differences in the agronomic development of the two species.

Este estudo compara o desenvolvimento de Kalanchoe brasiliensis e Kalanchoe pinnata, espécies medicinais conhecidas como "saião" e "folha da fortuna" que são utilizadas indiferenciadamente pela população para fins medicinais. O experimento consistiu em 20 parcelas/espécie plantadas em sacos plásticos com substrato homogêneo, em delineamento ao acaso, cultivadas sob níveis de luminosidade (25 por cento, 50 por cento, 70 por cento, luz plena) em temperatura ambiente, e um tratamento sob plástico com maior amplitude térmica que o meio externo. Obteve-se para K. pinnata maiores alturas de plantas, comprimentos totais de brotos, caules, produção e teor de matéria seca de folhas que para K. brasiliensis, que alcançou maiores médias apenas para comprimentos de ramos laterais. As espécies apresentaram aumento em altura que variou em proporção inversa à incidência luminosa, e observou-se a influência da temperatura em K. pinnata. A produção e teor de matéria seca de folhas foram proporcionais à luminosidade; o que também ocorreu na espessura foliar para K. brasiliensis. No índice de intumescência e grau Brix, K. brasiliensis apresentou maiores médias que K. pinnata. Em relação ao teor de flavonoides totais, não foram observadas diferenças significativas para ambas as espécies. Os parâmetros analisados apontaram as principais diferenças no desenvolvimento agronômico das duas espécies.