Morin exhibits leukemic cellular apoptosis through caspase pathway.

The present study investigated the possibility of apoptosis-inducing activity in human leukemia U-937 and THP-1 cells by the flavonoid morin. The treatments were evaluated by using the MTT and LDH assays; analysis of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was evaluated by flow cytometry, cell death by apoptosis was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy and by assessing the activity of caspases-3 and -6. The data indicated that the flavonoid morin has promoted a decrease in cell viability in a concentration-dependent way for both of the cancerous cell lines. An increase in the percentage of cell death caused by apoptosis was associated to a potential alteration in the mitochondrial membrane (ΔΨm) suggesting the involvement of cell death in intrinsic apoptotic pathways. Activation of caspases-3 and -6 confirmed the presence of apoptotic activity from morin. The results reinforce the antileukemic potential of flavonol morin.

Antidiabetic effect of Equisetum giganteum L. extract on alloxan-diabetic rabbit.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Equisetum giganteum has been traditionally used as an anti-diabetic herbal remedy to treat diabetes in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. AIM OF THE STUDY: Considering the ethonopharmacology and historical importance of E. giganteum, its potential antidiabetic effect was evaluated in alloxan induced diabetic rabbits. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Samples of Equisetum giganteum were collected in the city of Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Butanolic and aqueous extracts were prepared and subsequently evaluated for anti-diabetic properties in vivo using albino male rabbits. At the end of the treatment period, the animals were euthanized, and histopathological analysis were carried out. The following biochemical parameters were studied: glucose, triacylglycerol, cholesterol, albumin, creatinine, glycosylated hemoglobin and lipase. The phytochemical profile of the extracts was studied by liquid chromatography techniques coupled to a UV/VIS detector and high-resolution mass spectrometry. RESULTS: Both aqueous and butanolic extracts were capable of reducing significantly the levels of glucose, cholesterol and triacylglycerol and thus demonstrating their hypolipidemic and hypoglycemiant effects. Furthermore, the extracts prevented the occurrence of hepatic complications during treatment. The phytochemical profile of the extracts was investigated, and the natural products detected were in agreement with those that had been previously described in the literature. CONCLUSION: Based on the significant reductions in biochemical parameters and the histologic evidence for the absence of complications in the liver, pancreas of the treated animals, Equisetum giganteum can be a therapeutically relevant resource in the treatment of diabetes and hyperlipidemia.

Biometric, histomorphometric, and biochemical profile in atorvastatin calcium treatment of female rats with dexamethasone-induced osteoporosis / Perfil biométrico, histomorfométrico e bioquímico no tratamento com atorvastatina cálcica de ratas com osteoporose induzida com dexametasona

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the effects of atorvastatin calcium in the treatment of dexamethasone-induced osteoporosis. Methods: Osteoporosis induction consisted of the administration of an intramuscular dose of 7.5 mg/kg of body weight of dexamethasone, once a week for four weeks, except for the control animals (G1). The animals were divided into the following groups: G1 (control group without osteoporosis), G2 (control group with untreated osteoporosis), G3 (control group with osteoporosis treated with sodium alendronate 0.2 mg/kg) and G4 (group with osteoporosis treated with atorvastatin calcium 1.2 mg/kg). Serum alkaline phosphatase, bone alkaline phosphatase, and biometric and bone histomorphometric assessments were performed after 30 and 60 days of treatment onset. Results: In relation to the biometric and histomorphometric analyses, at 60 days of treatment, G4 presented bone density (Seedor index), bone trabecular density, and cortical thickness of 0.222 ± 0.004 g/cm, 59.167 ± 2.401%, and 387,501 ± 8573 µm, respectively, with a positive and statistically significant difference (p < 0.05), in relation to G2. At 30 and 60 days of treatment, G4 presented statistically significant serum levels of alkaline phosphatase alkaline phosphatase (p < 0.05) that were higher than all groups (7.451 ± 0.173 µg/L and 7.473 ± 0.529 µg/L, respectively). Conclusion: Treatment with atorvastatin calcium demonstrated the ability of this drug to increase osteoblastic activity and bone tissue repair activity, acting differently from alendronate sodium, which demonstrated predominantly antirebsorptive activity.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da atorvastatina cálcica no tratamento da osteoporose induzida com dexametasona. Métodos: A indução da osteoporose consistiu na administração de dexametasona na dose de 7,5 mg/kg de peso corporal, por via intramuscular, uma vez por semana durante quatro semanas, à exceção dos animais do grupo controle (G1). Os animais foram distribuídos nos seguintes grupos: G1 (grupo controle sem osteoporose), G2 (grupo controle com osteoporose sem tratamento), G3 (grupo controle com osteoporose tratado com alendronato de sódio 0,2 mg/kg) e G4 (grupo com osteoporose tratado com atorvastatina cálcica 1,2 mg/kg). Após 30 e 60 dias do início do tratamento dos animais, foram feitas as dosagens dos níveis séricos de fosfatase alcalina, fosfatase alcalina óssea, avaliação biométrica e histomorfométrica óssea. Resultados: Em relação às análises biométricas e histomorfométricas, aos 60 dias de tratamento o G4 apresentou densidade óssea (índice Seedor), densidade trabecular óssea e espessura da cortical de 0,222 ± 0,004 g/cm, 59,167 ± 2,401% e 387,501 ± 8,573 µm, respectivamente, com diferença positiva, estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05), em relação ao grupo G2. Aos 30 e 60 dias de tratamento, o G4 apresentou níveis séricos de fosfatase alcalina óssea estatisticamente significativos (p < 0,05) e superiores a todos os grupos (7,451 ± 0,173 µg/L e 7,473 ± 0,529 µg/L, respectivamente). Conclusão: O tratamento com atorvastatina cálcica demonstrou a capacidade desse fármaco de aumentar a atividade osteoblástica e a atividade reparadora tecidual óssea, atuar de forma diferente do alendronato de sódio, que demonstrou atividade preponderantemente antirreabsortiva.

Biometric, histomorphometric, and biochemical profile in atorvastatin calcium treatment of female rats with dexamethasone-induced osteoporosis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of atorvastatin calcium in the treatment of dexamethasone-induced osteoporosis. METHODS: Osteoporosis induction consisted of the administration of an intramuscular dose of 7.5 mg/kg of body weight of dexamethasone, once a week for four weeks, except for the control animals (G1). The animals were divided into the following groups: G1 (control group without osteoporosis), G2 (control group with untreated osteoporosis), G3 (control group with osteoporosis treated with sodium alendronate 0.2 mg/kg) and G4 (group with osteoporosis treated with atorvastatin calcium 1.2 mg/kg). Serum alkaline phosphatase, bone alkaline phosphatase, and biometric and bone histomorphometric assessments were performed after 30 and 60 days of treatment onset. RESULTS: In relation to the biometric and histomorphometric analyses, at 60 days of treatment, G4 presented bone density (Seedor index), bone trabecular density, and cortical thickness of 0.222 ± 0.004 g/cm, 59.167 ± 2.401%, and 387,501 ± 8573 µm, respectively, with a positive and statistically significant difference (p < 0.05), in relation to G2. At 30 and 60 days of treatment, G4 presented statistically significant serum levels of alkaline phosphatase alkaline phosphatase (p < 0.05) that were higher than all groups (7.451 ± 0.173 µg/L and 7.473 ± 0.529 µg/L, respectively). CONCLUSION: Treatment with atorvastatin calcium demonstrated the ability of this drug to increase osteoblastic activity and bone tissue repair activity, acting differently from alendronate sodium, which demonstrated predominantly antirebsorptive activity.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da atorvastatina cálcica no tratamento da osteoporose induzida com dexametasona. MÉTODOS: A indução da osteoporose consistiu na administração de dexametasona na dose de 7,5 mg/kg de peso corporal, por via intramuscular, uma vez por semana durante quatro semanas, à exceção dos animais do grupo controle (G1). Os animais foram distribuídos nos seguintes grupos: G1 (grupo controle sem osteoporose), G2 (grupo controle com osteoporose sem tratamento), G3 (grupo controle com osteoporose tratado com alendronato de sódio 0,2 mg/kg) e G4 (grupo com osteoporose tratado com atorvastatina cálcica 1,2 mg/kg). Após 30 e 60 dias do início do tratamento dos animais, foram feitas as dosagens dos níveis séricos de fosfatase alcalina, fosfatase alcalina óssea, avaliação biométrica e histomorfométrica óssea. RESULTADOS: Em relação às análises biométricas e histomorfométricas, aos 60 dias de tratamento o G4 apresentou densidade óssea (índice Seedor), densidade trabecular óssea e espessura da cortical de 0,222 ± 0,004 g/cm, 59,167 ± 2,401% e 387,501 ± 8,573 µm, respectivamente, com diferença positiva, estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05), em relação ao grupo G2. Aos 30 e 60 dias de tratamento, o G4 apresentou níveis séricos de fosfatase alcalina óssea estatisticamente significativos (p < 0,05) e superiores a todos os grupos (7,451 ± 0,173 µg/L e 7,473 ± 0,529 µg/L, respectivamente). CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento com atorvastatina cálcica demonstrou a capacidade desse fármaco de aumentar a atividade osteoblástica e a atividade reparadora tecidual óssea, atuar de forma diferente do alendronato de sódio, que demonstrou atividade preponderantemente antirreabsortiva.

Avaliação dos níveis séricos de glicose e insulina no uso de alendronato de sódio e atorvastatina cálcica na osteoporose induzida com dexametasona / Evaluation of serum levels of glucose and insulin in the use of sodium alendronate and atorvastatin calcium in dexamethasone-induced osteoporosis

Introdução: Além da indução da osteoporose, os glicocorticoides ocasionam aumento da resistência à insulina e gliconeogênese hepática, tendo como consequência a hiperglicemia. Objetivo: Avaliar comparativamente os efeitos do alendronato de sódio e da atorvastatina cálcica nos níveis séricos de glicose e insulina na osteoporose induzida com dexametasona. Métodos: A indução da osteoporose consistiu na administração de dexametasona na dose de 7,5 mg/kg de peso corporal, uma vez por semana durante 4 semanas, à exceção dos animais do grupo controle (G1). Os animais foram distribuídos nos seguintes grupos: G1 (grupo controle sem osteoporose), G2 (controle com osteoporose sem tratamento), G3 (com osteoporose tratado com alendronato de sódio 0,2 mg/kg) e G4 (com osteoporose tratado com atorvastatina cálcica 1,2 mg/kg). No período de 30 e 60 após o início do tratamento, foram coletadas amostras de sangue para as dosagens dos níveis séricos de glicose e insulina. Resultados: Os grupos G2 e G3, quando comparados com o grupo normal G1, apresentaram aumento da glicemia e insulinemia durante todo o período experimental. O grupo G4 apresentou, com 30 dias, aumento da glicemia e insulinemia e, com 60 dias, aumento da glicemia e queda da insulinemia. Conclusão: Os resultados demonstraram o quadro de hiperglicemia consequente do aumento da resistência à insulina, presentes na indução da osteoporose pela dexametasona. O alendronato de sódio não ocasionou nenhuma melhora da glicemia e insulinemia. A atorvastatina cálcica ocasionou agravamento da hiperglicemia e hiperinsulinemia, potencializando o quadro de resistência à insulina e levando a uma insuficiência relativa de insulina característica do diabetes mellitus tipo 2.

Introduction: In addition to the induction of osteoporosis, glucocorticoids cause increased insulin resistance and hepatic gluconeogenesis resulting in hyperglycemia. Objective: Evaluate the effects of sodium alendronate and atorvastatin calcium on serum glucose and insulin levels in osteoporosis induced by dexamethasone. Methods: The induction of osteoporosis consisted of the administration of dexamethasone at a dose of 7.5 mg / kg body weight, once a week for 4 weeks, except for the control animals (G1). The animals were divided into the following groups: G1 (control group without osteoporosis), G2 (control with untreated osteoporosis), G3 (with osteoporosis treated with sodium alendronate 0.2 mg / kg) and G4 (with osteoporosis treated with atorvastatin calcium 1,2 mg / kg). In the 30 and 60 period after the start of the treatment blood samples were collected for dosages of serum glucose and insulin levels. Results: The G2 and G3 groups, when compared with the normal group G1, presented increased glycemia and insulinemia throughout the experimental period. The G4 group presented a 30-day increase in glycemia and insulinemia and at 60 days increased glycemia and decreased insulinemia. Conclusion: The results demonstrated the hyperglycaemia associated with the increase in insulin resistance present in the induction of osteoporosis by dexamethasone. Sodium alendronate did not cause any improvement in glycemia and insulinemia. Atorvastatin calcium caused worsening of hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia enhancing insulin resistance, leading to a relative insufficiency of insulin characteristic of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Depletion of enteroendocrine and mucus-secreting cells is associated with colorectal carcinogenesis severity and impaired intestinal motility in rats.

This study investigated the relationship between enteroendocrine and mucus-secreting cells distribution, the severity of colonic mucosal injury and intestinal motility in experimental colorectal carcinogenesis. Using a standardized murine model of colorectal carcinogenesis, eight-weeks-old female Wistar rats weighting 147.30 ± 29.15g were randomized into two groups receiving a subcutaneous injection of 0.9% saline (control) or the chemical carcinogen 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) at 20 mg/kg per week during 10 weeks. Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) were more frequent in DMH group compared to control group (P < 0.001). The number of enteroendocrine and mucus-secreting cells, and intestinal motility was reduced in DMH animals (P < 0.05). The distribution of enteric neurons was similar in both groups. In DMH animals there was a direct correlation between colonic motility and distribution of enteroendocrine (R(2) = 0.68, P < 0.05) and mucus-secreting cells (R(2) = 0.77, P < 0.05). Inverse correlation between the number of ACF, mucus-secreting cells (R(2) = -0.57, P < 0.05), and enteroendocrine cells (R(2) = -0.74, P < 0.05) was also observed. There was inverse correlation between the severity of the mucosal lesion, the number of mucus-secreting cells (R(2) = -0.83, P < 0.05) and enteroendocrine cells (R(2) = -0.96, P < 0.05). There was a direct correlation between nucleolar organizer regions (AgNOR) and ACF number (R(2) = 0.62; P < 0.01). Inverse correlation was also found between AgNOR, the number of mucus-secreting cells (R(2) = -0.76; P < 0.001), and enteroendocrine cells (R(2) = -0.86; P < 0.001). Taken together, the results indicated that colonic malignant transformation is related to depletion of mucus-secreting and enteroendocrine cells, which was a useful indicator of the evolutionary status of intestinal neoplasm, partially explaining the intestinal motility disorders in the early stages of colorectal carcinogenesis.

Yacon-Based Product in the Modulation of Intestinal Constipation.

This study aimed to assess the effects of a yacon-based product (YBP) on constipation in adults, including the elderly. Forty-eight individuals were recruited and divided into equal intervention groups named the test and control groups. The YBP (test) and the control (maltodextrin) were dissolved in commercial orange juice. The volunteers for the YBP/test group consumed, on a daily basis, orange juice containing 10 g fructooligosaccharide (FOS)/inulin per day. The control group consumed, on a daily basis, orange juice containing 25 g of maltodextrin. The study had a span of 30 days. We evaluated the participants' frequency of evacuation, consistency of the feces, constipation score, abdominal symptoms (flatulence, pain, and abdominal strain), and effects upon the microbiota, pH, lactate, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) of the feces. The study showed an increased number of evacuations after the consumption of the YBP as well as an improvement in the consistency of the feces and a reduction in the constipation score. After 30 days of intervention, the group that consumed the YBP showed higher counts of Bifidobacterium, lower Clostridium and enterobacteria counts, and lower fecal pH. In relation to SCFAs, no significant change was found after the intervention. However, the lactate concentration was higher in the test group when compared to the post-treatment control group. The YBP was effective in improving constipation symptoms; not only was its functional characteristic in reducing constipation symptoms evident but it also demonstrated usefulness as a potential therapy.

Pharmacological activity of the hydroalcoholic extract from Hovenia dulcis thunberg fruit and the flavonoid dihydromyricetin during hypercholesterolemia induced in rats

Cerebrovascular accidents and coronary artery disease are the leading causes of cardiovascular mortalities in Brazil and high levels of LDL cholesterol are one of the main risk factors. In this context, several plant extracts and natural substances have shown promise as cholesterol-lowering. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of the hydroalcoholic extract of the fruit of H. dulcis and of dihydromyricetin in cholesterol reduction in hypercholesterolemic rats. Forty-two Wistar male rats were distributed into seven groups of six animals that received diets supplemented with 1% cholesterol and 0.3% cholic acid, with the exception of the control group, which received conventional diets. Animals were treated with oral suspensions containing: atorvastatin 1.0 mg/kg; H. dulcis extract at 50.0 and 100.0 mg/kg and dihydromyricetin at 25.0 and 50.0 mg/kg vehicle (control group). The following biochemical markers were evaluated; total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides, AST, ALT, and alkaline phosphatase. The hypercholesterolemic diet was effective in inducing hypercholesterolemia, increasing total cholesterol by 112.7% relative to the control group. The treatments with two doses of the extract proved to be promising hypocholesterolemic agents, as they were able to substantially reduce total cholesterol and LDL-C, without significantly altering triglycerides, hepatic transaminases, and alkaline phosphatase, thereby encouraging the studies with the plant H. dulcis. The groups treated with the flavonoid dihydromyricetin, although they showed a significant reduction in total cholesterol and LDL-C, and found increases in triglycerides and hepatic transaminases, which is unwanted in the context of hypercholesterolaemia.

No Brasil, o acidente vascular cerebral e a doença arterial coronariana constituem as principais causas de mortalidade cardiovascular, sendo os altos níveis de colesterol LDL um dos principais fatores de risco. Nesse contexto, diversos extratos vegetais e substâncias naturais isoladas têm se mostrado promissoras como hipocolesterolemiantes. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o potencial do extrato hidroalcoólico dos frutos de Hovenia dulcis e do flavonóide diidromiricetina na redução do colesterol em ratos hipercolesterolêmicos. Quarenta e dois ratos Wistar machos, foram distribuídos em 7 grupos de 6 animais, que receberam dieta suplementada com 1% de colesterol e 0,3% de ácido cólico, à exceção do grupo controle, que recebeu ração convencional. Posteriormente, os animais foram tratados com suspensões orais contendo: atorvastatina 1,0 mg/kg; extrato de H. dulcis de 50,0 e 100,0 mg/kg; diidromiricetina de 25,0 e 50,0 mg/kg e veículo (grupo controle). Avaliaram-se os parâmetros bioquímicos: colesterol total, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglicérides, AST, ALT e fosfatase alcalina. A dieta hipercolesterolêmica foi efetiva na indução da hipercolesterolemia, aumentando o colesterol total em 112,7% em relação ao controle. Os tratamentos com as duas doses do extrato mostraram-se promissores como agentes hipocolesterolemiantes, já que foram capazes de reduzir substancialmente o colesterol total e LDL-C, sem alterar significativamente triglicérides, as transaminases hepáticas e a fosfatase alcalina, incentivando, assim, a continuidade de estudos com a planta H. dulcis. Já os grupos tratados com o flavonóide diidromiricetina, apesar de apresentarem redução significativa do colesterol total e de LDL-C, apresentaram elevações nos triglicérides e nos parâmetros hepáticos, resultado indesejável no âmbito das hipercolesterolemias.

Yacon flour and Bifidobacterium longum modulate bone health in rats.

Yacon flour has been considered a food with prebiotic potential because of the high levels of fructooligosaccharides, which allows for its use in formulating synbiotic foods. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of yacon flour and probiotic (Bifidobacterium longum) on the modulation of variables related to bone health. Thirty-two Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: control, yacon flour, diet+B. longum, and yacon flour+B. longum. After euthanasia, the bones were removed for analysis of biomechanical properties (thickness, length, and strength of fracture) and mineral content (Ca, Mg, and P); the cecum was removed for analysis of the microbiota and short-chain fatty acids. Tibia Ca, P, and Mg content was significantly (P<.05) higher in groups fed diet+B. longum, yacon flour+B. longum than in the control group. An increase in fracture strength was observed in the yacon flour (8.1%), diet+B. longum (8.6%), and yacon flour+B. longum (14.6%) in comparison to the control group. Total anaerobe and weight of the cecum were higher (P<.05) in rats consuming the yacon flour diet compared with the other groups. Cecal concentration of propionate was higher in all experimental groups compared with the control (P<.05). Yacon flour in combination with B. longum helped increase the concentration of minerals in bones, an important factor in the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis.

Efeitos da suplementação com creatina e cafeína sobre a força de fratura óssea em ratos submetidos a exercício de saltos verticais / Effects of creatine and caffeine supplementation on the bone breaking force in rats subjected to vertical jumping exercise

Este estudo investigou se a suplementação com creatina e cafeína, isoladamente ou combinadas, interfere na força de fratura óssea em ratos jovens exercitados. Os ratos foram divididos aleatoriamente em oito grupos: sedentários placebo, exercitado placebo, sedentário creatina, exercitado creatina, sedentário cafeína, exercitado cafeína, sedentário creatina + cafeína e treinado creatina + cafeína. Os grupos suplementados receberam creatina (carga: 0,430g/kg de peso corporal, por sete dias; e manutenção: 0,143g/kg, por 35 dias), cafeína (10mg/100g de peso corporal, por 35 dias) ou creatina+cafeína. Os grupos exercitados executaram saltos verticais na água (4x10 saltos com 1 minuto de intervalo entre séries, 5 dias/sem) por seis semanas. A ingestão de cafeína reduziu a espessura, o peso e a força de fratura do fêmur dos ratos, independentemente do exercício. A cafeína e a creatina+cafeína aumentaram a excreção urinária de cálcio. O exercício de saltos elevou a força de fratura, independentemente da suplementação, mas não alterou o peso e as dimensões do fêmur dos animais.

This study investigated whether supplementation with high doses of creatine and caffeine, alone or in combination, affects the bone breaking force of exercised rats. Rats were randomly divided into 8 groups: Sedentary or Exercised (placebo, creatine, caffeine or creatine plus caffeine). The supplemented groups received creatine (load: 0.430 g/kg body weight, for 7 days; and maintenance: 0.143 g/kg for 35 days), caffeine (10 mg/100g body weight, for 35 days) or creatine plus caffeine. The exercised groups underwent a vertical jump training in water (4 sets of 10 jumps interspersed with 1 min resting intervals, 5 days/wk), for 6 weeks. Caffeine ingestion reduced the femur´s width, weight and breaking force, independently of exercise. Caffeine and creatine plus caffeine increased the urinary calcium excretion. Jumping exercise increased the bone breaking force independently of supplementation; nevertheless it did not change the weight and dimensions of the femur of the animals.

Hidratação enteral em bovinos: avaliação de soluções eletrolíticas isotônicas administradas por sonda nasogástrica em fluxo contínuo / Enteral fluid therapy in cattle: evaluation of isotonic electrolyte solutions administered via nasogastric tube on continuous flow

Foram avaliados os efeitos de soluções eletrolíticas isotônicas administradas via sonda nasogástrica de pequeno calibre e fluxo contínuo sobre o hematócrito, proteína total, albumina, sódio, potássio, cloreto, magnésio total, uréia, creatinina, glicose e lactato de bovinos desidratados experimentalmente. Seis bovinos adultos, mestiços, dois machos e quatro fêmeas foram avaliados. A hidratação enteral foi administrada na dose de 15mL kg-1 h-1 durante 12 horas. Os animais foram separados em dois tratamentos num delineamento experimental crossover e submetidos a cada um dos seguintes tratamentos: SEGlic: NaCl 4g, KCl 1g, NaHCO3 4g, dextrose 5g em 1.000mL de água; SEProp: NaCl 8g, KCl 0,5g, CaCl2 0,5g, propilenoglicol 15mL em 1.000mL de água. Após a administração das soluções eletrolíticas, ocorreu expansão da volemia, em ambos os tratamentos, ocasionando diminuição do hematócrito e proteína total. A SEGli ocasionou o aparecimento de hipernatremia e aumento do lactato plasmático. Por sua vez, a SEProp aumentou a taxa de glicose plasmática, enquanto os demais parâmetros avaliados permaneceram na faixa de referência.

This study evaluated the effects of isotonic electrolyte solutions administered via small-bore nasogastric intubation on a continuous flow rate on the hematocrit, total protein, albumin, sodium, potassium, chloride, total magnesium, urea, creatinine, glucose and lactate in cattle experimentally dehydrated. Six crossbred adult cattle, two males and four females were used for the study. Enteral fluid therapy was performed by using 15mL kg-1 h-1 for 12 hours. The animals were divided in two treatments in a "crossover" experimental design and subjected to the following treatments: SEGlic: 4g NaCl, 1g KCl, 4g NaHCO3, 5g dextrose in 1.000mL of water; SEProp: 8g NaCl, 0.5g KCl, 0.5g CaCl2, 15mL propylene glycol in 1.000mL of water. Both treatments demonstrated expansion of blood volume, reduction of hematocrit and total protein. In the SEGlic treatment, hypernatremia and increase of lactate were observed. On the other hand, the SEProp treatment caused an increase in the level of plasma glucose, while the other parameters remained within the reference values.

Avaliação do potencial interceptivo da ipriflavona em ratas wist / Evaluation of the potential of interceptive ipriflavone in wistar rats

A ipriflavona possui efeito inibitório sobre o citocromo p450 e sobre a proliferação do DNA, interferindo na síntese de hormônios estereoidianos, e consequente interferência no transporte e desenvolvimento pré-implantacional e na implantação do blastocisto. Consumidos em altas doses pode acarretar abortamentos e malformações. Para verificar a embriotoxicidade da ipriflavona durante as fases de transporte tubário e implantação do blastocisto de ratas, ratas Wistar prenhes foram tratadas duas vezes ao dia com 1mL de suspensão aquosa de ipriflavona, nas doses de 0 (C), 300 (T1), 1500 (T2) e 3000 (T3) mg/kg/dose, durante os oito primeiros dias de prenhez com eutanásia no 14o dia. Indícios de toxicidade foram avaliados por análises hematimétricas, bioquímicas e comportamentais. Foram contados fetos vivos, mortos e reabsorvidos (inicial e tardiamente). Os animais não apresentaram sinais clínicos de toxicidade. Índice de implantação e perdas pré-embrionária sofreram interferência do uso da ipriflavona. Dados apontam para um efeito estrogênico da ipriflavona, observados na interferência da implantação do blastocisto de ratas Wistar.

Ipriflavone has inhibitory effect on the cytochrome p450 and the proliferation of DNA, interfering with hormone synthesis estereoidianos, and consequent interference with the transport and preimplantation development and implantation of the blastocyst. Consumed in high doses can cause miscarriages and malformations. To verify the embryotoxicity of ipriflavone during the phases of tubal transport and implantation of the blastocyst in rats, Wistar rats were treated twice daily with 1 mL of aqueous suspension of ipriflavone at doses of 0 (C), 300 (T1), 1500 (T2) and 3000 (T3) mg / kg / dose during the first eight days of pregnancy with euthanasia on day 14. Signs of toxicity were characterized by hematological, biochemical and behavioral. Live fetuses were counted, dead and resorbed (early and late). The animals showed no clinical signs of toxicity. Index pre-implantation embryo and losses suffered interference from the use of ipriflavone. Data point to an estrogenic effect of ipriflavone, due to interference in blastocyst implantation in Wistar rats.

Atividade antifúngica das folhas de Cissus verticillata (L.) Nicolson & C. E. Jarvis subsp. verticillata frente a Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis e Candida tropicalis / Antifungal activity of the leaves of Cissus verticillata (L.) Nicolson & C. E. Jarvis subsp. verticillata against Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis and Candida tropicalis

A espécie vegetal Cissus verticillata (L.) Nicolson & C. E. Jarvis subsp. verticillata é conhecida como "Insulina vegetal" eutilizada na medicina popular no tratamento da diabetes mellitus. O paciente diabético tem maior risco de infecções urinárias e Candida spp. é o principal gênero envolvido. Avaliou-se a atividade antifúngica do extrato hidroalcoólico e de suas frações frente aCandida albicans ATCC 18804, Candida krusei ATCC 6258, Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019 e Candida tropicalis ATCC 750. Os resultados obtidos indicaram que folhas de C. verticillata verticillata têm potencial antifúngico promissor nas frações diclorometano e clorofórmio, com concentração inibitória mínima de 125 μg/mL em C. krusei e em C. tropicalis respectivamente. São necessários novos testes com constituintes químicos isolados dessas frações, buscando atividade superior na inibição do crescimento de Candida spp.

The specie Cissus verticillata (L.) Nicolson & C. E. Jarvis subsp. verticillata is known as "Vegetable insulin" and is used in popular medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The diabetic patient has a greater risk of urinary infections, and Candida spp. is the main gender involved. Was evaluated, the antifungal activity of the hydroalcoholic extract and its fractions against Candida albicans ATCC 18804, Candida krusei ATCC 6258, Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019 and Candida tropicalis ATCC 750. The results indicated that leaves of C. verticillata verticillata has promising potential antifungal in fractions diclormetano andchloroform, with minimum inhibitory concentration of 125 μg/mL in C. krusei and C. tropicalis respectively. We need new tests with chemical constituents of these fractions isolated, seeking higher activity in inhibiting the growth of Candida spp.

Radiographic evidence of mandibular osteoporosis improvement in Wistar rats treated with Ginkgo biloba.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the effects of the extract of Ginkgo biloba (EGb) on the rat mandibular glucocorticoid-induced-osteoporosis. METHOD: 36 female rats were divided into six groups (n=6): control, osteoporosis, positive control and EGb1 (14 mg/kg/day), EGb2 (28 mg/kg/day), and EGb3 (56 mg/kg/day) treatment. Treatments were conducted for 30 days after osteoporosis induction. The animals were euthanized and their left mandibles were removed and radiographed to evaluate the cortical and the periodontal bone support. The control group was compared with the osteoporosis group (Student's t-test). The other groups were analyzed by ANOVA test followed by Tukey post-hoc test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in periodontal bone support in the osteoporosis group. The positive control group showed a significant increase in the mesial periodontal bone support, as well as the EGb group treated with 28 and 56 mg/Kg, which showed a significant increase in the mesial and distal periodontal bone support. The mandibular cortical was not affected by osteoporosis; however, the group treated with EGb using 56 mg/Kg showed a significant increase in the thickness of the mandibular cortical. CONCLUSIONS: The EGb recovered the periodontal bone support and increased the mandibular cortical thickness. The EGb may be effective in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Efeito de flavonóides e de corantes do urucum sobre a hiperlipidemia induzida em coelhos / Flavonoids and natural urucum dyes on induced hyperlipidemic rabbits

Induziu-se hipercolesterolemia em coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia e comparam-se os efeitos hipolipidêmicos, por via oral, dos flavonóides baicaleína, morina, naringenina, naringina, quercetina, rutina, crisina, luteolina e apigenina, os corantes naturais extraidos do urucum norbixina e bixina e o medicamento comercial hipolipidêmico colestiramina. Todos os flavonóides estudados e o corante bixina foram significativamente mais hipocolesterolêmicos que o medicamento colestiramina, sendo que as melhores reduções foram observadas com naringenina (54,04%), naringina (49,26%), quercetina (49,78%), rutina (48,89%), crisina (55,56%), luteolina (52,58%) e apigenina (49,88%). As substâncias que mais aumentaram o HDL foram os flavonóides baicaleína (122,21%), apigenina (281,63%), morina (10,79%) e luteolina (21,14%) e o medicamento colestiramina (37,26%). A maior parte dos falvonóides estudados reduziu mais o tricilglicerol do que o medicamento colestiramina, sendo a baicaleína (-56,91% do que o controle sadio) e a rutina os mais eficientes. Verificou-se também in vitro, que a bixina, norbixina, apigenina e luteolina aumentaram a atividade da lipase. Tais resultados indicam que os compostos estudados poderiam ser utilizados como medicamento se devidamente testados no homem. Os cortes histológicos do arco aórtico e da artéria aorta não mostraram diferenças entre os grupos tratados e os controles, enquanto que algumas diferenças histológicas foram observadas nos hepatócitos dos grupos tratados em relação aos coelhos hiperlipidêmicos.

Influência de tinturas de fruto cereja e verde de café no tratamento do Diabetes / Influences of teinturerie of fruits cherry and green the coffee trait the Diabetes

O consumo de café tem sido associado a menor risco de diabetes. Entretanto, os compostos específicos e os mecanismos responsáveis por este efeito ainda não estão claros. Realizou-se um experimento para avaliar o efeito das tinturas de casca de cereja, fruto verde e fruto cereja da planta café (Coffea arabica L.) da variedade Catuai Vermelho em ratos com Diabetes induzido por aloxano. Após 30 dias de tratamento, foram coletados amostras de sangue dos animais para dosagens séricas de glicose, colesterol e triglicerídeos. As tinturas de casca cereja (1,0 mL), fruto verde (0,5 mL e 2,0 mL) e fruto cereja (1,0 mL e 2,0 mL) promoveram aumento significativo nos níveis de colesterol quando comparado ao grupo doente não tratado. Com relação aos níveis de glicose e triglicérideos, observou-se que todas as tinturas reduziram significativamente os valores séricos destes parâmetros. As percentagens de redução das concentrações de glicose e triglicérides variaram entre -28% a -49% e -27% a -47%, respectivamente. A diminuição dos níveis de glicose e triglicerídeos se sobrepõe ao aumento observado do colesterol, indicando que estas tinturas podem ser promissoras como adjuvantes no tratamento da diabetes.

Investigation of liver tissue and biochemical parameters of adult wistar rats treated with Arctium lappa L

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of Arctium lappa L. (burdock) on the liver of adult male Wistar rats as measured by light microscopy and biochemical parameters. The rats received the extract in water bottles at doses of 10 or 20 g/L daily for 40 days. There were no significant changes in the plasma levels of albumin, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), total protein, total cholesterol, urea, uric acid, triacylglycerol, calcium, phosphorus, chlorine and direct bilirubin. The morphological analysis did not reveal histopathological alterations in liver tissue. Both biochemical and morphological data did not indicate A. lappa toxicity.

A bardana (Arctium lappa L) é uma planta trazida do Japão e aclimatada no Brasil, e é extensamente utilizada na medicina popular em todo mundo. Este estudo foi realizado para avaliar os possíveis efeitos da A. lappa no fígado e nos parâmetros bioquímicos plasmáticos em ratos Wistar adultos. Estes receberam a infusão de bardana nas doses de 10 ou 20 g de folhas secas /L de água, por 40 dias. Não houve alteração significativa nos níveis plasmáticos de albumina, aspartato transaminase (AST), alanina transaminase (ALT), gamma glutamil transferase (GGT), proteínas totais, colesterol total, uréia, ácido úrico, triglicérides, cálcio, fósforo, bilirrubina direta e cloro. A análise morfológica não revelou alterações histopatológicas no fígado. Os dados bioquímicos e morfológicos não indicaram a toxicidade da bardana.

Liver morphology and morphometry and plasma biochemical parameters of Wistar rats that received leaf infusion of Rudgea viburnoides Benth. (Rubiaceae)

Rudgea viburnoides leaves are widely used in popular Brazilian medicine as a diuretic, antirheumatic, hypotensive and blood depurative tea. The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of this infusion on the liver and on the plasma biochemical parameters of Wistar rats. Two groups received the R. viburnoides leaf infusion at a daily dose of 10 or 20g dry-leaves/L water, during 40 days. The histopathological analysis did not show degenerated areas or infiltration of leucocytes. Hepatic morphometry showed accumulation of fat in the hepatocytes of the treated groups. There was no significant change in the plasma levels of urea, creatinin, uric acid, direct bilirubin, cholesterol, total proteins, albumin, gamma glutamyl tranferase (gamma-GT), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), chlorine, phosphate and calcium. A significant reduction in the plasma levels of triacylglycerol (TAG) occurred in the group that received the higher dose.

As folhas de Rudgea viburnoides Benth. são utilizadas na medicina popular como diuréticas, hipotensoras, anti-reumáticas, depurativas do sangue e em regimes de emagrecimento. O presente estudo foi delineado para avaliar o efeito da infusão das folhas de R. viburnoides nos parâmetros bioquímicos plasmáticos e na morfologia e morfometria hepática de ratos Wistar adultos. Dois grupos receberam a infusão das folhas, diariamente, nas dosagens de 10 e 20 g de folhas secas/L de água, durante 40 dias. O grupo controle recebeu a mesma quantidade de água. As análises histopatológicas não mostraram áreas degeneradas e infiltrados inflamatórios. A morfometria hepática mostrou acúmulo significativo de gordura nos hepatócitos dos animais tratados, principalmente no grupo que recebeu a maior dose da infusão (8,75 por cento de gotículas lipídicas), comparado com 0,25 por cento delas encontradas nos animais controles. Não foram observadas alterações nos níveis plasmáticos de uréia, creatinina, ácido úrico, bilirrubina direta, colesterol, proteínas totais, albumina, gama-glutamil transferase (GGT), alanina transaminase (ALT), aspartato transaminase (AST), cloro, fósforo e cálcio. Foi observada redução significativa de 20,6 por cento nos níveis plasmáticos de triacilglicerol no grupo que recebeu a infusão mais concentrada, comparada aos animais controle.

Flavonóides e seu potencial terapêutico: [revisão] / Flavonoids and potential therapeutic: [review]

Entre os fitoterápicos atualmente estudados, os flavonóides têm merecido destaque em virtude de sua ampla gama de ações terapêuticas já demonstradas tanto experimentalmente quanto em humanos. Seu uso para tratamento de sintomas da menopausa tem levado ao consumo indiscriminado, por mulheres nessa faixa de idade e, além disso foram demonstrados efeitos antimicrobiano, antiviral, antiulcerogênico, antineoplásico, antioxidante, antihepatotóxico, antihipertensivo, hipolipidêmico, antiinflamatório, antiplaquetário. Dessa forma, pareceu im-portante apresentar informações sobre os flavonóides, abordando sua ocorrência na natureza, estrutura química, atividade biológica e mecanismo de ação.

Políticas de saúde e alegações de propriedades funcionais e de saúde para alimentos no Brasil / Health policies and functional property and health claims for food in Brazil

O trabalho estabelece a relação entre as diretrizes das políticas públicas de saúde brasileiras e os critérios adotados pela Anvisa para aprovação das alegações de propriedades funcionais e, ou, de saúde para alimentos e para substâncias bioativas e probióticos isolados. Comenta a legislação brasileira sobre alimentos com alegações de propriedades funcionais e, ou, de saúde, novos alimentos e substâncias bioativas e probióticos isolados, evidenciando a obrigatoriedade de registro destes produtos junto aos órgãos competentes. Apresenta as diretrizes da Política Nacional de Alimentação e Nutrição, Política Nacional de Promoção da Saúde, Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira e Estratégia Global sobre Dieta, Atividade Física e Saúde da Organização Mundial de Saúde. Ressalta a convergência das diretrizes destas políticas que objetivam a redução das doenças crônicas não-transmissíveis na população através da promoção da alimentação saudável e da atividade física. Destaca as orientações direcionadas aos governos e à indústria para a implementação dessas medidas. Apresenta critérios de avaliação da base científica das alegações propostos por órgãos internacionais. Objetiva oferecer subsídios para o entendimento da influência da tecnologia de alimentos sobre a saúde pública e para o entendimento dos critérios adotados pela Anvisa, na avaliação das alegações de propriedades funcionais e de saúde.

This article establishes the relationship between public health policies in Brazil and the criteria adopted by Anvisa for the approval of functional property claims and, or, of health for food and for bioactive substances and isolated products. It also comments on Brazilian Legislation about functional property claimed food and, or, on healthy claimed food, new foods, bioactive substances and isolated probiotics, emphasizing the obligation to registering such products before the competent agencies. It presents the National Feeding and Nutrition Policies directives, National Policy for Health Promotion, Feeding Guide for the Brazilian Population and Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health under the scope of World Health Organization. It enhances the convergence of directives of these policies that focus on the reduction of non-transmissible chronic diseases in the public by means of healthy feeding and physical activity. It highlights the orientations directed to governments and to the industry so as to implement these procedures. Through the presentation of evaluation criteria for the scientific basis of the claims, proposed by international agencies, it aims at offering subsidies for the understanding of the food technology over public health, and for the understanding of the criteria adopted by Anvisa for the evaluation of functional property claims and health.