Treatment with incomplete Freund's adjuvant and Listeria monocytogenes delays diabetes via an interleukin-17-secretion-independent pathway

Timbe (Acaciella angustissima) as an Alternative Source of Compounds with Biological Activity: Antidiabetic

Background/Objectives: Timbe (Acaciella angustissima) is a legume recognized for its environmental benefits, such as soil restoration, wildlife nutrition, and the presence of biologically active compounds. This study investigates the antioxidant, pharmacological, and antimicrobial properties of Timbe. Methods: The total phenolic content, flavonoids, and condensed tannins from Timbe flowers, seeds, and pods were quantified, and their antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH and ABTS assays. Enzymatic activities were assessed through α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and ACE-I inhibition, and antimicrobial properties were tested against various bacterial strains. Results: The pods and flowers exhibited higher antioxidant capacities compared to seeds, effectively neutralizing free radicals. Flavonoids and condensed tannins showed positive correlations with antioxidant activity and the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, suggesting the potential benefits of these metabolites in blood glucose control. Timbe also demonstrated ACE-I inhibition, particularly the flowers. Regarding antimicrobial activity, the pods displayed moderate inhibition against E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and S. aureus. Conclusions: The results indicate that different parts of Timbe (flowers, seeds, and pods) possess significant therapeutic potential for preventing and treating metabolic disorders and bacterial infections.

Dendritic cell line AP284 supports Th17 amplification

Dendritic cells (DC) have the unique ability to capture microorganisms and activate naive T lymphocytes. Obtaining DC derived from progenitors demands high cost and prolonged cultivation. Different immortalized DC has been isolated but most of them have immature phenotype and depending on growing factors or other stimuli to be used. In this study we characterized the cell line AP284 as a DC. AP284 cells express high levels of CD11b, MHC class II, 33D1 and CD209b. They also express high amounts of CD80 costimulatory molecule and different toll like receptors (TLR). After stimuli with TLR agonist they produce surprising amount of IL-12p40 related to IL-23 formation but not IL-12p70. They are also able to produce IL-6 and favor amplification of a Th17 but not Th1 profile. This DC line may be useful for a better understanding of factors and cellular interactions responsible for the induction of IL-12p40, IL-23 and Th17 generation.