Ascitic and solid Ehrlich tumor inhibition by Chenopodium ambrosioides L. treatment

Potential anti-liver cancer targets and mechanisms of kaempferitrin based on network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental verification

AIM

Kaempferitrin is an active component in Chenopodium ambrosioides, showing medicinal functions against liver cancer. This study aimed to identify the potential targets and pathways of kaempferitrin against liver cancer using network pharmacology and molecular docking, and verify the essential hub targets and pathway in mice model of SMMC-7721 cells xenografted tumors and SMMC-7721 cells.

METHODS

Kaempferitrin therapeutical targets were obtained by searching SwissTargetPrediction, PharmMapper, STITCH, DrugBank, and TTD databases. Liver cancer specific genes were obtained by searching GeneCards, DrugBank, TTD, OMIM, and DisGeNET databases. PPI network of "kaempferitrin-targets-liver cancer" was constructed to screen the hub targets. GO, KEGG pathway and MCODE clustering analyses were performed to identify possible enrichment of genes with specific biological subjects. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were employed to determine the docking pose, potential and stability of kaempferitrin with hub targets. The potential anti-liver cancer mechanisms of kaempferitrin, as predicted by network pharmacology analyses, were verified by in vitro and in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

228 kaempferitrin targets and 2186 liver cancer specific targets were identified, of which 50 targets were overlapped. 8 hub targets were identified through network topology analysis, and only SIRT1 and TP53 had a potent binding activity with kaempferitrin as indicated by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. MCODE clustering analysis revealed the most significant functional module of PPI network including SIRT1 and TP53 was mainly related to cell apoptosis. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses suggested that kaempferitrin exerted therapeutic effects on liver cancer possibly by promoting apoptosis via p21/Bcl-2/Caspase 3 signaling pathway, which were confirmed by in vivo and in vitro experiments, such as HE staining of tumor tissues, CCK-8, qRT-PCR and Western blot.

CONCLUSION

This study provided not only insight into how kaempferitrin could act against liver cancer by identifying hub targets and their associated signaling pathways, but also experimental evidence for the clinical use of kaempferitrin in liver cancer treatment.

Evaluation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer activities and molecular docking of Moringa oleifera seed oil extract against experimental model of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in Swiss female albino mice

The current research intended to evaluate the antitumor properties of Moringa oleifera oil extract (MOE). Fifty-six female Swiss albino mice were employed in this study. Animals were assigned into four groups: control (C) group, moringa oil extract (MOE) group administered (500 mg/kg b. wt) MOE daily via gavage, Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) group and EAC group administered daily with (500 mg/kg b.wt) MOE for two weeks (EAC/MOE). The results showed that MOE significantly ameliorated the EAC increase in body weight and reduced the EAC cell viability. In addition, they upgraded the levels of hepatic and renal functions, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers and EAC-induced hepatic and renal histopathological changes. Treatment of EAC with MOE induced antitumor, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and normalized most of the tested parameters besides the histopathological alterations in both renal and hepatic tissues. HPLC for the MOE identified Cinnamic acid, Ellagic acid, Quercetin, Gallic acid, Vanillin and Hesperidin as major compounds. The molecular docking study highlighted the virtual binding of the identified compounds inside the GSH and SOD proteins, especially for Quercetin which exhibited promising binding affinity with good interactive binding mode with the key amino acids. These results demonstrate that the antitumor constituents of MOE against EAC induced oxidative stress and inflammation by preventing oxidative damage and controlling EAC increase.

Antitumor Effect of Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Seed Extract in LNCaP Cells and in the Solid Ehrlich Carcinoma Model

Euterpe oleracea (açaí) fruit has approximately 15% pulp, which is partly edible and commercialized, and 85% seeds. Although açaí seeds are rich in catechins-polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects-almost 935,000 tons/year of seeds are discarded as industrial waste. This work evaluated the antitumor properties of E. oleracea in vitro and in vivo in a solid Ehrlich tumor in mice. The seed extract presented 86.26 ± 0.189 mg of catechin/g of extract. The palm and pulp extracts did not exhibit in vitro antitumor activity, while the fruit and seed extracts showed cytotoxic effects on the LNCaP prostate cancer cell line, inducing mitochondrial and nuclear alterations. Oral treatments were performed daily at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of E. oleracea seed extract. The tumor development and histology were evaluated, along with immunological and toxicological parameters. Treatment at 400 mg/kg reduced the tumor size, nuclear pleomorphism, and mitosis figures, increasing tumor necrosis. Treated groups showed cellularity of lymphoid organs comparable to the untreated group, suggesting less infiltration in the lymph node and spleen and preservation of the bone marrow. The highest doses reduced IL-6 and induced IFN-γ, suggesting antitumor and immunomodulatory effects. Thus, açaí seeds can be an important source of compounds with antitumor and immunoprotective properties.

Possible Mechanism of Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants Seed Extract Suppresses the Migration and Invasion of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells SMMC-7721

Mexican tea (Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants) is rich in phenolic acids and flavonoids and could be a potential medicinal herb that can be used for prevention of human hepatocellular carcinoma. The objective of this study was to elaborate the possible mechanism for the prevention or treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma using Mexican tea, and to provide new avenues for the utilization of the invasive plant. In this study, the D. ambrosioides seed extracts (CSE) were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the effects of CSE on proliferation, migration, invasion, and gene expression of SMMC-7721 cells were investigated. Eight compounds were identified in CSE, and the compound with the highest content was ascaridole (25.82 %). The proliferation was significantly inhibited by CSE (p<0.05), and IC50 values were 0.587 g/L, 0.360 g/L, and 0.361 g/L at 24 h, 36 h, and 48 h, respectively. Migration and invasion were significantly inhibited (p<0.05). The network pharmacology and transcriptome analysis indicated that 2-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptan-3-one, cis-11-eicosenoic acid and 2-ethylcyclohexanone might be the active compounds. Transcriptome analysis indicated that the Wnt signaling pathway, which is related to migration and invasion, was significantly altered; this was verified by western blot assay. The expression of wnt11, lef1 and mmp7 genes in SMMC-7721 cells was significantly down-regulated (p<0.05), while gsk-3β was significantly up-regulated (p<0.05). These results indicate that CSE inhibits the invasion and migration of SMMC-7721 cells in hepatocellular carcinoma through the Wnt signaling pathway.

Fortified anti-proliferative activity of niclosamide for breast cancer treatment: In-vitro and in-vivo assessment

Breast cancer represents one of the top lethal cancer types among the females worldwide. Several factors manipulate the clinical outcome of the treatment as the stage of the cancer upon detection, genetic and hormonal factors, drug resistance and metastasis. Accordingly, drug's repositioning, enhancing the bioavailability and encapsulation into nanoparticles (NPs) are among the predilected pathways for enhanced therapeutic outcome. Niclosamide (NIC) is an anthelmintic drug and has been repositioned as anticancer agent after revealing its anti-neoplastic activity. Piperine (PIP) was used as food spice until its anticancer activity was discovered. However, their hydrophobicity constrains their therapeutic efficiency. The cytotoxicity of both drugs in the free form was tested on MCF-7 cells, and the results indicated a NIC cytotoxicity enhancement by PIP. Then, NIC and PIP were encapsulated successfully into F127-NPs with entrapment efficiency of 97 % and 82 %, respectively. Particle size, zeta potential, TEM and FTIR confirmed the micellization process and drug encapsulation. The developed NIC-NPs and PIP-NPs exerted potent anticancer effect as compared to the free forms. Accordingly, the mixture; NIC-NPs/PIP-NPs was tested and its cytotoxicity exceeded the individually encapsulated drugs. Flowcytometry assessment was performed and demonstrated an induced cell death through the apoptotic stage. Additionally, in-vivo therapeutic efficiency of NIC-NPs/PIP-NPs was assessed through Ehrlich ascites tumor and the nanocombination therapy exerted superior additive anticancer effect when compared to NIC-NPs which is attributed to the PIP-NPs induced bioavailability. The study can be considered the first one investigating the PIP role in bioenhancing the anti-proliferative activity of NIC to combat breast cancer.

Switching indication of PEGylated lipid nanocapsules-loaded with rolapitant and deferasirox against breast cancer: Enhanced in-vitro and in-vivo cytotoxicity

Breast cancer (BC) is considered the leading cause of mortality and morbidity among adult women worldwide, and it is associated with many genetic or hormonal factors. Despite the advanced therapeutic and theranostic strategies for BC treatment, cancer metastasis and relapse are often observed among patients which lead to therapeutic failure. Accordingly, among the repositioned medication against BC proliferation is neurokinin receptor antagonists and iron chelating agents especially rolapitant HCl (RP) and deferasirox (DFO), respectively. However, RP and DFO are classified as class II with low aqueous solubility. Both drugs were nanoformulated into PEGylated lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) for enhancing their aqueous solubility and augmenting their efficacy. RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and their combinations were evaluated according to particle size (PS), zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI) and surface morphology. Importantly, the antitumor effect of these novel molecules and their nanoforms was evaluated against the suppression of Ehrlich Ascites tumor model using female mice. Results revealed that RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and RP/DFO-LNCs exerted PS from 45.23 ± 3.54 to 60.1 ± 3.32 nm with PDI around 0.20 which indicates homogenous particles distribution. Also, RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and RP/DFO-LNCs displayed surface charges of +16.6 ± 6.9, -13.3 ± 5.82 and - 20.2 ± 5.40 mV, respectively. The obtained LNCs conferred a high potent cytotoxic effect against MCF7 cancer cells as compared to parent drugs, with IC50 of 10.86 ± 0.89, 3.34 ± 0.99 and 2.24 ± 0.97 μg/mL for RP-LNCs, DFO-LNCs and RP/DFO-LNCs, respectively. The in-vivo pharmacodynamics effect of the developed nano-formulations showed superior antitumor effect for the individual drugs rather than their combinations as compared to the control group. The current study confirmed the potential of RP and DFO nanoforms as promising therapeutic agents for BC treatment.

Medicinal Plants from Brazilian Cerrado Biome: Potential sources of new anti-inflammatory compounds and antitumor agents on Ehrlich carcinoma

This work describes a pharmacological screening of Brazilian medicinal plants through their anti-inflammatory and cytotoxicity activities. Cytotoxicity activity of Mouriri elliptica and Alchornea glandulosa as well as the drugs celecoxib and doxorubicin were evaluated in cultures of peritoneal macrophages. The immune system influence of these samples was analyzed by determining production/inhibition of NO, production of tumor necrosis factor-α and production of interleukin-10. Regarding the production/inhibition of NO, there was NO production by M. elliptica and NO inhibition when the cells were exposed to A. glandulosa; Macrophages generally produce more NO, plus TNF-α and less IL-10, when associated to the tumor phenomenon, characterizing the inflammation involved in cancer. A. glandulosa showed anti-inflammatory effect, inhibited NO production and it was associated with low TNF-α production, although not as low as the macrophages associated with celecoxib and doxorubicin. These cytokines were not different in animals with tumor. Celecoxib confirms its anti-inflammatory action by markedly inhibiting NO and TNF-α, but also inhibiting IL-10 which is an anti-inflammatory cytokine. Doxorubicin inhibited NO in a higher percentage in the group of animals with tumor, although the literature reports that this drug stimulates the production of NO and this collaborates with its cytotoxic effect.

Ethnomedical uses, chemical constituents, and evidence-based pharmacological properties of Chenopodium ambrosioides L.: extensive overview

Background

The Chenopodium genus is a plant family widely spread worldwide that includes various plant species reputed to possess several medicinal virtues in folk medicines. Chenopodium ambrosioides L. is among the most used plants in traditional medicines worldwide. This review aimed to highlight ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical status, and pharmacological properties of C. ambrosioides L.

Main body of the abstract

The analysis of relevant data highlights various ethnomedicinal uses against human and veterinary diseases in forty countries. Most indications consisted of gastrointestinal tract dysfunctioning troubles and worms parasitemia. Around 330 chemical compounds have been identified in different plant parts, especially in its essential oil fractions (59.84%). However, only a few compounds—mainly monoterpenes and glycosides—have been isolated and characterized. Experimental pharmacological studies validated a large scale of significant health benefits. It appeared that many monoterpenes are antioxidant, insecticidal, trypanocidal, analgesic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, acaricidal, amoebicidal, anthelmintic, anticancer, antibacterial, antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, antifertility, antifungal, anti-leishmanial, antimalarial, antipyretic, antisickling, antischistosomal, antiulcer, anxiolytic, immunomodulatory, molluscicidal, and vasorelaxant agents.

Short conclusion

Thus, the Chenopodium ambrosioides species necessitates further chemical studies to isolate and characterize new bioactive secondary metabolites and pharmacological investigations to precise the mechanisms of action before clinical trials.

Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis Induced by Chenopodium ambrosioides L. Essential Oil in Human Normal Liver Cell Line L02 via the Endogenous Mitochondrial Pathway Rather Than the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (C. ambrosioides) has been used as dietary condiments and as traditional medicine in South America. The oil of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (C. ambrosioides) can be used as a natural antioxidant in food processing. It also has analgesic, sedating, and deworming effects, and can be used along with the whole plant for its medical effects: decongestion, as an insecticide, and to offer menstruation pain relief. This study was conducted to investigate the cytotoxicity and apoptosis effects of an essential oil from C. ambrosioides in vitro. The cytotoxicity evaluation of the essential oil from C. ambrosioides on human normal liver cell line L02 was assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. AO/EB dual fluorescent staining assay and Annexin V-FITC were used for apoptosis analysis. The changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were analyzed with 5,5,6,6′-tetrachloro-1,1,3,3,-tetraethyl-imidacarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) dye under a fluorescence microscope. The level of apoptosis related protein expression was quantified by Western blot. The L02 cells were treated with the essential oil from C. ambrosioides at 24, 48, and 72 h, and the IC₅₀ values were 65.45, 58.03, and 35.47 μg/mL, respectively. The AO/EB staining showed that viable apoptotic cells, non-viable apoptotic cells, and non-viable non-apoptotic cells appeared among the L02 cells under the fluorescence microscope. Cell cycle arrest at the S phase and cell apoptosis increased through flow cytometry in the L02 cells treated with the essential oil. MMP decreased in a concentration-dependent manner, as seen through JC-1 staining under the fluorescence microscope. In the L02 cells as shown by Western blot and qPCR, the amount of the apoptosis-related proteins and the mRNA expression levels of cytochrome C, Bax, Caspase-9, and Caspase-3 increased, Bcl-2 decreased, and Caspase-12, which is expressed in the endoplasmic reticulum, showed no obvious changes in protein amount or mRNA expression level. The essential oil form C. ambrosioides had a cytotoxic effect on L02 cells. It could inhibit L02 cell proliferation, arrest the cell cycle at the S phase, and induce L02 cell apoptosis through the endogenous mitochondrial pathway.

The immunomodulatory activity of Chenopodium ambrosioides reduces the parasite burden and hepatic granulomatous inflammation in Schistosoma mansoni-infection

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Folk medicine reports have described the use of Chenopodium ambrosioides as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anthelmintic herb. These effects, including its activity against intestinal worms, are already scientifically observed. However, the immunological mechanisms of this species in the treatment of Schistosoma mansoni infection are unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the immunological and anti-Schistosoma mansoni effects of a crude Chenopodium ambrosioides hydro-alcoholic extract (HCE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the in vitro analysis, cercariae and adult worms were exposed to different concentrations (0 to 10,000 μg/mL) of the HCE. For the in vivo evaluation, Swiss mice were infected with 50 cercariae of S. mansoni and separated into groups according to treatment as follows: a negative control (without treatment), a positive control (treated with Praziquantel®), HCE1 Group (treated with HCE during the cutaneous phase), HCE2 Group (treated with HCE during the lung phase), HCE3 Group (treated with HCE during the young worm phase), and HCE4 Group (treated with HCE during the adult worm phase). The animals treated with HCE received daily doses of 50 mg/kg, by gavage, for seven days, corresponding to the different developmental stages of S. mansoni. For comparison, a clean control group (uninfected and untreated) was also included. All animals were euthanized 60 days post-infection to allow the following assessments to be performed: a complete blood cells count, counts of eggs in the feces and liver, the quantification of cytokines and IgE levels, histopathological evaluations of the livers, and the analysis of inflammatory mediators.

RESULTS

HCE treatment increased the mortality of cercariae and adult worms in vitro. The HCE treatment in vivo reduced the eggs in feces and liver. The number and area of liver granulomas, independent of the phase of treatment, were also reduced. The treatment with HCE reduced the percentage of circulating eosinophils, IgE, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-4. In contrast, the treatment with the HCE, dependent on the phase, increased IL-10 levels and the number of peritoneal and bone marrow cells, mainly of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and macrophages. This effect could be due to secondary compounds presents in this extract, such as kaempferol, quercetin and derivatives.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that Chenopodium ambrosioides has antiparasitic and immunomodulatory activity against the different phases of schistosomiasis, reducing the granulomatous inflammatory profile caused by the infection and, consequently, improving the disease prognosis.

Marine-Derived Penicillium purpurogenum Reduces Tumor Size and Ameliorates Inflammation in an Erlich Mice Model

Background: This study addresses the antitumoral properties of Penicillium purpurogenum isolated from a polluted lagoon in Northeastern Brazil. Methods: Ethyl Acetate Extracellular Extract (EAE) was used. The metabolites were studied using direct infusion mass spectrometry. The solid Ehrlich tumor model was used for antitumor activity. Female Swiss mice were divided into groups (n = 10/group) as follows: The negative control (CTL−), treated with a phosphate buffered solution; the positive control (CTL+), treated with cyclophosphamide (25 mg/kg); extract treatments at doses of 4, 20, and 100 mg/kg; animals without tumors or treatments (Sham); and animals without tumors treated with an intermediate dose (EAE20). All treatments were performed intraperitoneally, daily, for 15 days. Subsequently, the animals were euthanized, and the tumor, lymphoid organs, and serum were used for immunological, histological, and biochemical parameter evaluations. Results: The extract was rich in meroterpenoids. All doses significantly reduced tumor size, and the 20 and 100 mg/kg doses reduced tumor-associated inflammation and tumor necrosis. The extract also reduced the cellular infiltration of lymphoid organs and circulating TNF-α levels. The extract did not induce weight loss or renal and hepatic toxic changes. Conclusions: These results indicate that P. purpurogenum exhibits immunomodulatory and antitumor properties in vivo. Thus, fungal fermentation is a valid biotechnological approach to the production of antitumor agents.

Antioxidant, intestinal immune status and anti-inflammatory potential of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. in fish: In vitro and in vivo studies

Chenopodium ambrosioides L. has been used for centuries as traditional medicine in many clinical situations. The objectives of this study were first to assess the nutraceutical potential of C. ambrosioides L. extract through analyses of its chemical composition and antioxidant properties, followed by assessing toxicity and antioxidative activities on fish splenocytes. The second one was to perform an in vivo study using dietary C. ambrosioides L. extract (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0%; w/w) for 15 and 30 days (2-week and 4-week treatments) to assess associated-intestine health status by short-chain fatty production, antioxidant enzyme activities and anti-inflammatory effects on Pacific red snapper (Lutjanus peru). Non-polar and polar fractions were detected by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in C. ambrosioides, of which the most abundant compounds were carvacrol, phytol, squalene, vitamin E and sucrose. The extract of C. ambrosioides L. enhanced a considerable antiradical and reducing power; fish splenocytes responded positively with higher (88%) cell viability than control. The production of nitric oxide and superoxide anion, as well as superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, were also enhanced in splenocytes treated with C. ambrosioides L. The in vivo study results showed that acetate was the major short-chain fatty acid found in fish receiving C. ambrosioides L. after week four. Pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in intestine was modulated in fish fed with C. ambrosioides L. at any time of the experimental trial. In addition, the histological findings suggested that its extract did not cause inflammatory damage in intestine. Overall, the results suggest that C. ambrosioides L. is safe for immune cells and promoting intestinal health status of fish through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making it an interesting additive in functional diets.

Chenopodium ambrosioides induces an endothelium-dependent relaxation of rat isolated aorta

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the vasodilatory effect of Chenopodium ambrosioides on the isolated rat aorta, and to explore its mechanism of action.

METHODS

The vasorelaxant effect and the mode of action of various extracts from the leaves of C. ambrosioides were evaluated on thoracic aortic rings isolated from Wistar rats. In addition, ethyl acetate and methanol fractions were analyzed, using thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography techniques, for their polyphenolic content.

RESULTS

The various active extracts of C. ambrosioides at four concentrations (10^-3, 10^-2, 10^-1 and 1 mg/mL) relaxed the contraction elicited by phenylephrine, in a concentration-dependent manner. This effect seems to be endothelium-dependent, since the vasodilatory effect was entirely absent in denuded aortic rings. The vasorelaxant effect of the methanol fraction (MF) of C. ambrosioides at 1 mg/mL was also inhibited by atropine and tetraethylammonium. This effect remained unchanged by Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride and glibenclamide. The preliminary phytochemical analysis showed that the leaves of C. ambrosioides are rich in phenolic and flavonoid derivatives.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the MF of C. ambrosioides produces an endothelium-dependent relaxation of the isolated rat aorta, which is thought to be mediated mainly through stimulation of the muscarinic receptors, and probably involving the opening of Ca²⁺-activated potassium channels.

High dose gabapentin does not alter tumor growth in mice but reduces arginase activity and increases superoxide dismutase, IL-6 and MCP-1 levels in Ehrlich ascites

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of gabapentin on Ehrlich tumor growth in Swiss mice, a highly aggressive and inflammatory tumor model. Mice were grouped into sets of 5 animals and treated from days 2 to 8 with gabapentin 30 mg/kg body weight (G30) or 100 mg/kg body weight (G100), or normal sterile saline (control).

Results

The mice were euthanized on day 10. Tumor growth, tumoricidal agents and inflammatory cytokines levels were assessed. At day 10, G30 and G100 mice gained weight, but there were no differences in tumor cell count or in ascites volume. In G100, there was a reduction in arginase and an increase in SOD activities. There was an increase in IL-6 and MCP-1 levels, especially in G100, but no alterations in TNF-α. There was no direct evidence of tumor induction by gabapentin. However, the findings suggest that its use modulates immune response to a more effector and less deleterious profile, with increase in activity of anti-oxidant enzymes and in cytokines that favor activation of macrophages, which could improve the general status of the tumor host.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-019-4103-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Anti-arthritic properties of crude extract from Chenopodium ambrosioides L. leaves

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic crude extract (HCE) from Chenopodium ambrosioides leaves on the development of type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and on pro-inflammatory cytokine balance.

Methods

Collagen-induced arthritis was induced in DBA1/J mice. On the 21st day, the mice were treated orally with HCE or methotrexate, daily. Six weeks after beginning the treatment, the following measures were determined: lymphoid organs cell numbers, percentage of blood cells, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-17 serum concentrations, activity of hepatic and kidney glutathione S-transferase, hepatic 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity, bone density and histopathology.

Key findings

Treatment of CIA mice with HCE 5 mg/kg (HCE5) reduced the percentage of neutrophils and macrophages and the number of bone marrow cells and increased the lymphocyte numbers and the inguinal lymph node cellularity. This treatment inhibited the serum concentration of IL-6 and TNF-α, which may be related to the preservation of bone density and to the slight thickening of periarticular tissues, with minimal fibrosis and fibroblast proliferation in the joints. The CIA group presented advanced articular erosion and synovial hyperplasia. Phytochemical analysis showed mainly flavonols.

Conclusions

HCE5 presented anti-arthritic potential and reduced IL-6 and TNF-α, which participate directly in the development and maintenance of the inflammatory process in rheumatoid arthritis.

Interaction of ascaridole, carvacrol, and caryophyllene oxide from essential oil of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. with mitochondria in Leishmania and other eukaryotes

The antileishmanial activity of the essential oil (EO) from Chenopodium ambrosioides L. has been demonstrated in vitro and in animal models, attributed to the major components of the EO. This study focused on the effects of the three major EO compounds carvacrol, caryophyllene oxide (Caryo), and the antileishmanial endoperoxide ascaridole (Asc) on mitochondrial functions in Leishmania tarentolae promastigotes (LtP). EO and Caryo were able to partially inhibit the leishmanial electron transport chain, whereas other components failed to demonstrate a direct immediate effect. Caryo demonstrated inhibition of complex III activity in LtP and in isolated complex III from other species. The formation of superoxide radicals was studied in Leishmania by electron spin resonance spectroscopy in the presence of iron chelators wherein selected compounds failed to trigger a significant immediate additional superoxide production in LtP. However, upon prolonged incubation of Leishmania with Asc and especially in the absence of iron chelators (allowing the activation of Asc), an increased superoxide radical production and significant impairment of mitochondrial coupling in Leishmania was observed. Prolonged incubation with all EO components resulted in thiol depletion. Taken together, the major components of EO mediate their leishmanicidal activity via different mitochondrial targets and time profiles. Further studies are required to elucidate possible synergistic effects of carvacrol and Asc and the influence of minor compounds.

An ethnopharmacological survey of medicinal plants traditionally used for cancer treatment in the Ashanti region, Ghana

AIMS

Cancer represents a major health burden and drain on healthcare resources in the world. The majority of the people of Africa still patronize traditional medicine for their health needs, including various forms of cancer. The aim of the following study is the identification of medicinal plants used for cancer treatment by the traditional healers in the Ashanti area of Ghana and to cross-reference the identified plant species with published scientific literature.

METHODOLOGY

Validated questionnaires were administered to 85 traditional healers in 10 communities within Ashanti region. For cross-validation, also 7 healers located outside Ashanti region were investigated to evaluate regional differences. Interviews and structured conversations were used to administer the questionnaires. Selected herbal material dominantly used by the healers was collected and identified.

RESULTS

The ethnopharmacological survey revealed 151 plant species used for cancer treatment. Identified species were classified into different groups according to their frequency of use, resulting in the "top-22" plants. Interestingly group I (very frequent use) contained 5 plant species (Khaya senegalensis, Triplochiton scleroxylon, Azadirachta indica, Entandrophragma angolense, Terminalia superba), three of which belong to the plant family Meliaceae, phytochemically mainly characterized by the presence of limonoids. Cross-referencing of all plants identified by current scientific literature revealed species which have not been documented for cancer therapy until now. Special interest was laid on use of plants for cancer treatment of children.

CONCLUSION

A variety of traditionally used anti-cancer plants from Ghana have been identified and the widespread use within ethnotraditional medicine is obvious. Further in vitro and clinical studies will be performed in the near future to rationalize the phytochemical and functional scientific background of the respective extracts for cancer treatment.

Use of raw Euphorbia tirucalli extract for inhibition of ascitic Ehrlich tumor

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the effect of the Euphorbia tirucalli hydroalcoholic extract (ETHE) on the development of Ehrlich Tumor, in its ascitic form.

METHODS

we intraperitoneally inoculated 15 Swiss mice with 10.44 x 107 cells of Ehrlich Tumor and divided them in two groups one day after: ETHE Group (eight mice), treated with a dosage of 125 mg/kg/day of EHTE for five days; and Control Group (seven mice), treated only with 0.9% isotonic saline solution over the same period. The treatment was done by gavage. Ten days after inoculation, four mice from each group were sacrificed for quantification of tumor cell number, ascitic fluid volume and bone marrow cell number. The remaining animals were maintained to evaluate survival.

RESULTS

The ascitic fluid volume and the tumor cell number were decreased in the ETHE group when compared with the control group, but with no statistical significance. On the other hand, survival was higher in the ETHE group, as well as the number of bone marrow cells.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with ETHE after inoculation of Ehrlich Tumor decreases its development and increases survival and the bone marrow cellularity, thus reducing the myelosuppression present in the Ehrlich Tumor bearing mice.

Chenopodium ambrosioides associated with whole body vibration exercises alters the feed intake in Wistar rats

The consequences of treatment involving the use of a natural product and whole body vibration (WBV) exercise have been investigated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of the joint treatment with an aqueous extract of Chenopodium ambrosioides and WBV on physiological parameters in rats. Wistar rats (n=20) were divided equally into four groups: control group (CG), treated with C. ambrosioides (CHE) group, exposed to 50 Hz of mechanial vibration (VBR), and treated with C. ambrosioides and exposed to 50 Hz of mechanical vibration (VBR + CHE) daily for 6 weeks. The body mass of the animals was determined weekly, the feed intake and the stool consistency were measured daily. One day after the 6 weeks of treatment, samples of blood were collected and used for biochemical analysis. Along 6 weeks, there was an increase (P<0.001) in the feed intake in VBR group and a decrease in the CHE group in comparison with other groups. The levels of the enzyme aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in VBR + CHE group decreased (P<0.05) in comparison with other groups. No differences were found in body mass and stool consistency. WBV altered the feed intake without directly affecting the body mass. Moreover, WBV in association with C. ambrosioides caused alteration in the enzymatic activity of AST.

A new acridine derivative induces cell cycle arrest and antiangiogenic effect on Ehrlich ascites carcinoma model

BACKGROUND

Acridine derivatives, including amsacrine, have antitumor activity. However, side effects, development of resistance and their low bioavailability, have limited their use. Herein, we described the synthesis, and evaluated the toxicity and antitumor activity of a new amsacrine analogous, the N'-(2-chloro-6-methoxy-acridin-9-yl)-2-cyano-3-(4-dimethylaminophenyl)-acrilohidrazida (ACS-AZ10).

METHODS

The compound was obtained in a linear pathway where the ASC-Az intermediate was obtained by coupling of 6,9-dichloro-3-methoxy-acridine and 2-ciany-acethohidrazide followed by condensation with the corresponding aldehyde. The toxicity of ACS-AZ10 was evaluated in mice using acute toxicity and micronucleus assays. Ehrlich ascites carcinoma model was used to investigate the antitumor activity and toxicity of ACS-AZ10 (7.5, 15 or 30mg/kg, i.p.), after nine days of treatment. Cell cycle and angiogenesis were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The ASC-AZ10 was obtained with satisfactory yields and its structure was confirmed by spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques. On acute toxicity study, ACS-AZ10 (2000mg/kg, i.p.) induced transient depressant effects on central nervous system. The LD₅₀ was approximately 2500mg/kg. ACS-AZ10 (15 or 30mg/kg) displayed significant antitumor activity considering the tumor weight and volume, cell viability, and total Ehrlich cell count. ACS-AZ10 (7.5mg/kg) induced an increase in sub-G1 peak, suggesting apoptosis. At 15mg/kg ACS-AZ10 induced cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase and a reduction in the percentage of cells in G0/G1 and S phases, suggesting a pre-mitotic blockade. ACS-AZ10 reduced the microvessel density, indicating an antiangiogenic effect. Weak hematological, biochemical and histopathological toxicity were observed. The compound doesn't show genotoxicity in micronucleus assay.

CONCLUSIONS

ACS-AZ10 has potent antitumor activity in vivo along with low toxicity.

Chenopodium ambrosioides L. Reduces Synovial Inflammation and Pain in Experimental Osteoarthritis

The chronicity of osteoarthritis (OA), characterized by pain and inflammation in the joints, is linked to a glutamate receptor, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA). The use of plant species such as Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (Amaranthaceae) as NMDA antagonists offers a promising perspective. This work aims to analyze the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory responses of the crude hydroalcoholic extract (HCE) of C. ambrosioides leaves in an experimental OA model. Wistar rats were separated into six groups (n = 24): clean (C), negative control (CTL-), positive control (CTL+), HCE0.5, HCE5 and HCE50. The first group received no intervention. The other groups received an intra-articular injection of sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA) (8 mg/kg) on day 0. After six hours, they were orally treated with saline, Maxicam plus (meloxicam + chondroitin sulfate) and HCE at doses of 0.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, respectively. After three, seven and ten days, clinical evaluations were performed (knee diameter, mechanical allodynia, mechanical hyperalgesia and motor activity). On the tenth day, after euthanasia, synovial fluid and draining lymph node were collected for cellular quantification, and cartilage was collected for histopathological analysis. Finally, molecular docking was performed to evaluate the compatibility of ascaridole, a monoterpene found in HCE, with the NMDA receptor. After the third day, HCE reduced knee edema. HCE5 showed less cellular infiltrate in the cartilage and synovium and lower intensities of allodynia from the third day and of hyperalgesia from the seventh day up to the last treatment day. The HCE5 and HCE50 groups improved in forced walking. In relation to molecular docking, ascaridole showed NMDA receptor binding affinity. C. ambrosioides HCE was effective in the treatment of OA because it reduced synovial inflammation and behavioral changes due to pain. This effect may be related to the antagonistic effect of ascaridole on the NMDA receptor.

Simultaneous determination of ascaridole, p-cymene and α-terpinene in rat plasma after oral administration of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. by GC-MS

A sensitive and reliable GC-MS method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of ascaridole, p-cymene and α-terpinene in rat plasma using naphthalene as internal standard. The plasma samples were extracted with ethyl acetate. Chromatographic separation was carried out on a HP-5MS capillary analytical column (30 m × 0.25 mm, 0.25 µm) and detection was performed on a quadrupole mass spectrometer detector operated under selected ion monitoring mode. The method showed excellent linearity over the investigated concentration range (r > 0.99) with the limit of quantitation down to 50, 10 and 5 ng/mL for ascaridole, p-cymene and α-terpinene, respectively. The intra-day and inter-day precisions (RSD) were <11.3%, and the accuracy was between 90.7 and 113.8%. The method was successfully applied to investigate the pharmacokinetics of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. following oral administration to rats.

Colchicine derivatives with potent anticancer activity and reduced P-glycoprotein induction liability

Colchicine (1), a nature-derived microtubule polymerization inhibitor, develops multi-drug resistance in tumor cells due to its P-gp substrate and induction activity, which in turn leads to its rapid efflux from tumor cells. This auto-induction of the efflux of colchicine remains a major challenge to medicinal chemists. Based on structure-based molecular modeling, a series of new colchicine derivatives were designed and synthesized with a potential for reduced P-gp induction liability. Screening of the prepared derivatives for P-gp induction activity revealed that a number of derivatives possess remarkably lower P-gp-induction activity (>90% intracellular accumulation of rhodamine 123 in LS-180 cells) compared to the parent natural product colchicine (62% Rh123 accumulation in LS-180 cells). The reduced P-gp-induction activity of new derivatives may be due to their reduced ability to interact and change the conformation of P-gp. The synthesized derivatives were then screened for antiproliferative activity against two colon cancer cell lines including HCT-116 and Colo-205. The derivative 4o showed potent cytotoxicity in HCT-116 cells with IC50 of 0.04 μM with significantly reduced P-gp induction liability. Compound 4o also inhibited microtubule assembly and induced expression of pro-apoptotic protein p21. In an Ehrlich solid tumor mice model, compound 4o showed 38% TGI with no mortality at 2 mg kg(-1) dose (oral). Compound 4o, with potent in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity, significantly reduced P-gp induction activity and its excellent physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties open up new opportunities for the colchicine scaffold.

In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Activity of Root Extracts of Sansevieria liberica Gerome and Labroy (Agavaceae)

Introduction. Sansevieria liberica Gerome and Labroy (Agavaceae) is a perennial plant widely distributed in tropical Africa. Preparations of the plant are commonly used across Nigeria for the treatment of inflammatory conditions. Based on the fact that herbal medicine is a strong component of integrative medicine, this study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer activity of root extracts of Sansevieria liberica. Methods. Sulforhodamine B (SRB) in vitro cytotoxicity assay, Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites and solid tumor, and L1210 lymphoid leukemia in vivo models were used in this study. Results. SL-A002 (IC50 23 µg/mL with HeLa), SL-A003 (IC50 22 µg/mL with HCT-116), and SL-A004 (IC50 23 and 18 µg/mL with A549 and THP-1, resp.) demonstrated significant activity in the SRB cytotoxicity assay. Potency was highest with the following pairs of extract : cancer cell line: SL-A002 : HeLa (IC50 23 µg/mL), SL-A003 : HCT-116 (IC50 22 µg/mL), and SL-A004 : THP-1 (IC50 18 µg/mL). SL-A002 demonstrated significant dose-dependent antitumor activity in the Sarcoma-180 (S-180) ascites model with peak effect produced at the dose of 120 mg/kg (i.p.) with inhibition of 89.36% compared to 97.96% for 5-FU (20 mg/kg i.p.). The inhibition of tumor growth by SL-A002 in the S-180 solid tumor model was 47.40% compared to a value of 50.18% for 5-FU. SL-A002 was also significantly active in the L1210 lymphoid leukemia model with 158.33% increase in mean survival time, the same value for 5-FU. Conclusions. The hydroethanolic extract of Sansevieria liberica, SL-A002, possesses significant anticancer activity to warrant further extensive study to identify, isolate, and characterize the specific bioactive molecules responsible for the observed antitumor activity and the precise mechanism(s) of action.

Antioxidative and cytotoxic potential of some Chenopodium L. species growing in Poland

The cytotoxic and antioxidant properties of lipophilic compounds extracted from different parts of four Chenopodium L. (Chenopodium album, Chenopodium hybridum, Chenopodium rubrum and Chenopodium urbicum) species were evaluated. The highest phenolic content was found in herb and seeds of all examined plants. Large amounts of free polyphenols were observed in herb extracts of C. album (3.36 mg/g DW), seeds of C. urbicum (3.87 mg/g DW) and roots of C. urbicum (1.52 mg/g DW). The cytotoxic activities of the extracts were assessed against human lung carcinoma A-549 and ovarian carcinoma TOV-112D and normal human fibroblast cell lines. Our study demonstrated that the extracts from the herb of C. rubrum and C. urbicum had the best antioxidant effect of all the extracts analyzed. Most of the extracts tested exhibited low cytotoxicity. However, the extracts from herb and seeds of C. album and C. hybridum showed the significant antiproliferative effect on the TOV-112 cell line.

It can be concluded that antioxidant activity and phenolic composition differ mainly between plant parts and are quite similar between the plants, when the same plant part is analyzed. Thus, the Chenopodium extracts could be used as a readily accessible source of natural antioxidants, and may be used in the pharmaceutical industry and for food supplements production.

Design and synthesis of N-acylated aza-goniothalamin derivatives and evaluation of their in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity

Herein we describe the synthesis of a focused library of compounds based on the structure of goniothalamin (1) and the evaluation of the potential antitumor activity of the compounds. N-Acylation of aza-goniothalamin (2) restored the in vitro antiproliferative activity of this family of compounds. 1-(E)-But-2-enoyl-6-styryl-5,6-dihydropyridin-2(1H)-one (18) displayed enhanced antiproliferative activity. Both goniothalamin (1) and derivative 18 led to reactive oxygen species generation in PC-3 cells, which was probably a signal for caspase-dependent apoptosis. Treatment with derivative 18 promoted Annexin V/7-aminoactinomycin D double staining, which indicated apoptosis, and also led to G2 /M cell-cycle arrest. In vivo studies in Ehrlich ascitic and solid tumor models confirmed the antitumor activity of goniothalamin (1), without signs of toxicity. However, derivative 18 exhibited an unexpectedly lower in vivo antitumor activity, despite the treatments being administered at the same site of inoculation. Contrary to its in vitro profile, aza-goniothalamin (2) inhibited Ehrlich tumor growth, both on the ascitic and solid forms. Our findings highlight the importance of in vivo studies in the search for new candidates for cancer treatment.

Acute and sub-chronic toxicity of aqueous extracts of Chenopodium ambrosioides leaves in rats

The present study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of aqueous extract of Chenopodium ambrosioides leaves. To measure acute toxicity, rats were administered 0, 0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 g/kg of aqueous extract from C. ambrosioides leaves by gavage. To analyze sub-chronic toxicity, rats were treated by oral gavage for 15 consecutive days with 0, 0.3, or 1.0 g/kg of extract of C. ambrosioides leaves. No animals from either trial exhibited any signs of toxicity. In the acute study, the highest dose of the extract led to an increase in the serum activities of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) and a decrease in the serum levels of urea. In the sub-chronic test, rats treated with 1.0 g/kg for 15 days exhibited increased serum ALT activity and creatinine levels and mild cytoplasmic vacuolation of hepatocytes. The results indicate that aqueous extract from C. ambrosioides leaves produce slight hepatotoxic lesions in rats.

Hypotensive property of Chenopodium ambrosioides in anesthetized normotensive rats

BACKGROUND

The leaves of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (Chenopodiaceae) are widely used in Moroccan traditional medicine to treat diabetes and hypertension. The goal of the present work is to investigate the hypotensive properties of different extract and fractions of the plant in anesthetized normotensive rats and to elucidate the mechanism underlying this effect.

METHODS

The hypotensive effect of aqueous extract (AqE) of the leaves of C. ambrosioides L., methanolic (MF), ethyl acetate (AcF), and aqueous (AqF) Soxhlet fractions, administrated intravenously, was evaluated in anesthetized rats. The recorded signals of blood pressure and heart rate were visualized and analyzed by using an acquisition card "National Instrument" and software Labview 6.1.

RESULTS

Intravenous administration of AqE of the leaves of C. ambrosioides L. induces a dose-dependent hypotension. A similar effect was obtained with MF, AcF, and AqF. Atropine (1 mg/kg), used to block cholinergic system, significantly reduced the hypotensive response to MF and AcF suggesting the presence of the cholinomimetic-muscarinic components in these fractions. However, the blood pressure lowering effect of MF and AcF in rats pretreated with L-NAME 20 mg/kg was unchanged showing that the release of NO is not implicated in the hypotensive action of this plant.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that extracts from leaves of C. ambrosioides induce hypotensive effect that may be partially associated with its cardiac effects. These results may partly explain the traditional use of leaves of C. ambrosioides L. for the treatment of disorders such as hypertension.

Effect of atorvastatin and methotrexate on solid Ehrlich tumor

Hydroxymethyl glutaryl CoA reductase is the key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. A relationship was found between cholesterol and the development of many types of cancer. Atorvastatin is a hypolipidemic drug that may have a role in treatment of cancer. Moreover, atorvastatin was reported to decrease the resistance of cancer cells to many chemotherapeutic agents. The aim of this work was to study the effect of each of methotrexate (MTX) and atorvastatin alone and in combination on solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC) in mice. Fifty BALB/c mice were divided into five equal groups: control untreated group, SEC, SEC+MTX, SEC+atorvastatin, SEC+MTX+atorvastatin. Tumor volume, tissue glutathione reductase (GR), catalase, malondialdehyde (MDA), cholesterol and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were determined. A part of the tumor was examined for histopathological and immunohistochemical study. MTX or atorvastatin alone or in combination induced significant increase in tissue catalase and GR with significant decrease in tumor volume, tissue MDA, cholesterol and TNF-α and alleviated the histopathological changes with significant increase in p53 expression and apoptotic index compared to SEC group. In conclusion, the combination of MTX and atorvastatin had a better effect than each of MTX or atorvastatin alone against solid Ehrlich tumor in mice.

The anticancer activity of dichloromethane crude extract obtained from Calea pinnatifida

The genus Calea is reported for many biological activities such as antiinflammatory, antiplasmodial, antifungal, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities. Most of the pharmacological activities are credited to germacranolides, a sesquiterpene lactone common to this genus. Dried aerial parts of Calea pinnatifida Banks were extracted with dichloromethane, which generated the dichloromethane crude extract (DCE). The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the anticancer activity of DCE performed in sulforhodamine B cytotoxicity in vitro assay against human cancer cell lines and in vivo Ehrlich models. The DCE showed a high potency and selectivity for the melanoma and kidney cell line. Two in vivo assays were also conducted in the Ehrlich ascites tumor and Ehrlich solid tumor. In the Ehrlich ascites tumor assay, the treatment with DCE increased survival rates at the highest dose (200 mg/kg). Interestingly, in the Ehrlich solid tumor, by increasing the number of treatments from one to three times a week, the tumor growth was inhibited by a lower dose (100 mg/kg). These results encouraged follow-up studies with C. pinnatifida in order to identify the active principles and to determine the anticancer mechanism of action.

Bioactivity Evaluation of Plant Extracts Used in Indigenous Medicine against the Snail, Biomphalaria glabrata, and the Larvae of Aedes aegypti

This investigation examined the molluscicidal and larvicidal activity of eight plants that are used in the traditional medicine of the Pankararé indigenous people in the Raso da Catarina region, Bahia state, Brazil. The tested plants were chosen based on the results of previous studies. Only those plants that were used either as insect repellents or to treat intestinal parasitic infections were included in the study. Crude extracts (CEs) of these plants were tested for their larvicidal activity (against Aedes aegypti larvae in the fourth instar) and molluscicidal activity (against the snail Biomphalaria glabrata). The plant species Scoparia dulcis and Helicteres velutina exhibited the best larvicidal activities (LC₅₀ 83.426 mg/L and LC₅₀ 138.896 mg/L, resp.), and Poincianella pyramidalis, Chenopodium ambrosoides, and Mimosa tenuiflora presented the best molluscicidal activities (LC₅₀ 0.94 mg/L, LC₅₀ 13.51 mg/L, and LC₅₀ 20.22 mg/L, resp.). As we used crude extracts as the tested materials, further study is warranted to isolate and purify the most active compounds.

Radiation-induced cell cycle arrests in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells in vivo

Radiation-induced progression delay in G(1)/S, S and G(2)/M phases of p53 wild-type Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells growing in vivo was investigated by DNA flow cytometry. Different behavior patterns of EAC cells at the time after irradiation with low (2, 4, 6, 8 Gy) and high (10, 15, 20 Gy) doses were evaluated. While EAC cells showed a small progression delay in S phase and a dose-dependent block in G(2)/M phase after the irradiation with low doses, a clear additional block in G(1)/S phase was observed after irradiation with high doses. An assessment of the damage response and repair networks at the time after irradiation might have important implication for the development of cancer management and treatment.

Medicinal plants used as antitumor agents in Brazil: an ethnobotanical approach

WE DESCRIBE THE MEDICINAL PLANTS THAT HAVE BEEN REPORTED TO BE ANTITUMOR AGENTS AND THAT HAVE BEEN USED IN ETHNOBOTANIC RESEARCH IN BRAZIL TO ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: what is the abundance of plants reported to be antitumor in Brazil? Have the plant species used for tumor treatment in traditional Brazilian medicine been sufficiently examined scientifically? Our analysis included papers published between 1980 and 2008. A total of 84 medicinal plant species were reported to be used for cancer and tumor prevention or treatment; 69.05% of these were cited as being used for the treatment of tumors and cancer in general and 30.95% for specific tumors or cancers. The plants that were cited at a higher frequency were Aloe vera, Euphorbia tirucalli, and Tabebuia impetiginosa. At least, one pharmacological study was found for 35.71% of the species. Majority of the studies selected were conducted in rural communities and urban areas and in areas with traditional healers in Brazil. We found the following molecules to be the most studied in vitro and in vivo: silibinin, β-lapachone, plumbagin and capsaicin. The species addressed here constitute interesting objects for future studies to various professionals in the field of natural products.

Effect of goniothalamin on the development of Ehrlich solid tumor in mice

In this work the antiproliferative activity of goniothalamin (1), both in racemic and in its enantiomeric pure forms, in a solid tumor experimental model using laboratory animals is described. The antiedematogenic activity displayed by racemic 1 in the carrageenan edema model in mice together with the reduction of Ehrlich solid tumor model suggest a relationship between anticancer and antiinflammatory activities with the antiinflammatory activity favoring the antiproliferative activity itself.