Evaluation of the acute toxicity, antitumor and acute inflammation inhibitory effects of Drimys brasiliensis (winteraceae)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21527/2176-7114.2024.48.14659Keywords:
Phytotherapy, Toxicity, Antineoplastic, Anti-inflammatory AgentsAbstract
The genus Drimys, belonging to the Winteraceae botanical family, is widely recognized and valued. Its species have been used in folk medicine to treat various health problems, such as gastric pain, toothache and anemia. In certain localities, the dried leaves and berries of the fruit are used as condiments due to their spicy flavor. This study aims to evaluate the phytochemical profile, acute toxicity, anti-inflammatory and antitumor activities of the ethanolic leaf extract of Drimys brasiliensis. In this study, we conducted an analysis of the phytochemical profile and quantification of phenolic and flavonoids compounds. We evaluated the acute toxicity administering a dose of 2000 mg.kg-1 in mice. Futhermore, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity using experimental models of paw edema, peritonitis and air pouch, and carried out an antitumor test using the 180-sarcoma model. Chromatographic analysis revealed the presence of anthocyanidins, phenolic compounds, coumarins, anthracene derivatives, terpenes, naphthoquinones, saponins and triterpenes. The extract showed a large amount of phenolic and flavonoids compounds. We also observed low toxicity in rodents, with an LD50 greater than 2000 mg.kg-1. Additionally, we verified that the extract showed inhibition of leukocytes and neutrophils at the tested doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg.kg-1. In the paw edema model, the concentrations of 100 and 200 mg.kg-1 were statistically different (p<0.05). In the 180-sarcoma model, the dose of 300 mg.kg-1 resulted in tumor inhibition of 64.33%. In view of these promising results, further studies are needed to better understand the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of the plant extract.
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