Rosana S S Barreto - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Rosana S S Barreto

The FASEB Journal, 2014

ABSTRACT

The FASEB Journal, 2015

ABSTRACT

Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology, 2022

Cardiovascular diseases have high morbidity and mortality rates, and their treatment is not effec... more Cardiovascular diseases have high morbidity and mortality rates, and their treatment is not effective in reducing the damage caused by myocardial infarction (MI). This study aimed to investigate whether nerolidol (NRD), a sesquiterpene alcohol, could attenuate MI in an isoproterenol-treated rat model. MI was induced by the administration of two doses of isoproterenol (ISO, 100 mg/kg, i.p.) with an interval of 24 h between doses.The animals were divided into four groups: control (CTR) (vehicle - NaCl 0.9% + Tween 80 0.2%), MI (ISO + vehicle), MI + NRD (50 mg/kg) and MI + NRD (100 mg/kg). An electrocardiogram was performed, and contractile parameters, cardiac enzymes, infarction size, and antioxidant parameters in the heart were measured to evaluate the effects of NRD. The ISO group showed a significant rise in ST segment, QTc, and heart rate associated with a reduction in left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), + dP/dt, and -dP/dt. In addition, there were increases in levels of creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and thiobarbituric acid (TBARS); reductions in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities; and an increase in the infarction size. Interestingly, NRD significantly attenuated almost all the parameters of ISO-induced MI mentioned above. Our results suggest that nerolidol attenuates MI caused by ISO by a marked reduction in myocardial infarct size and suppression of oxidative stress. CK total, creatine kinase total; CK-MB, creatine kinase myocardial band; LDH, lactate dehydrogenase; SOD, superoxide dismutase; CAT, catalase. CTR (vehicle group), MI (100 mg/kg of isoproterenol), ISO + NRD 50 (50 mg/kg of nerolidol), and ISO + NRD 100 (100 mg/kg of nerolidol).

Hecogenin is a steroidal sapogenin largely drawn from the plants of the genus Agave, commonly kno... more Hecogenin is a steroidal sapogenin largely drawn from the plants of the genus Agave, commonly known as 'sisal', and is one of the important precursors used by the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of steroid hormones. Hecogenin acetate (HA) is a steroidal sapogenin-acetylated that produces antinociceptive activity. Thus, we evaluate the

The FASEB Journal, 2015

ABSTRACT

The FASEB Journal, 2015

Carvacrol, a phenolic monoterpene present in the oregano essential oil. The aim of this study was... more Carvacrol, a phenolic monoterpene present in the oregano essential oil. The aim of this study was to investigate the wound healing activity of carvacrol incorporated to chitosan bioactive films on ...

Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 2021

Obesity is a major public health problem, and there is increasing scientific interest in its mech... more Obesity is a major public health problem, and there is increasing scientific interest in its mechanisms, as well as a search for new compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can minimize the metabolic complications associated with its pathology. One potential source of these compounds is natural products; Among these, flavonoids are a promising group of natural substances. Flavonoids are active constituents with diverse biological activities and are widely found in plants kingdom. Numerous studies have shown that flavonoids can effectively inhibit obesity and related metabolic disorders. The review synthesizes recent evidence in respect of progress in the understanding of the anti-obesity effects of flavonoids. Such effects which occurs through the modulation of proteins, genes and transcriptional factors involved in decreasing lipogenesis, increasing lipolysis, expenditure energy, stimulating fatty acids B-oxidation, digestion and metabolism of carbohydrates...

The Journal of Public Space, 2020

This article illustrates the concept of "porch placemaking" emerging in various neighbo... more This article illustrates the concept of "porch placemaking" emerging in various neighborhoods in the world during the COVID-19 pandemic. While people face difficulty going to and staying in public spaces, they invent micro-intervention to socialize with others at their front porch, balcony, or window with a lighter, quicker, cheaper approach. These spaces are in-between spaces interfacing private and public realms. Porch placemaking can positively influence socially, culturally, and mentally in neighborhoods, but it seems conditioned to apply by physical, natural, and social settings. Porch placemaking is a quick and improvisational reaction to the pandemic. However, it could be an effective way to enhance a sense of neighborhood even after the pandemic. This article discusses ways to sustain and expand the practice.

Phytomedicine, 2021

BACKGROUND Flavonoids are a class of compounds with a wide variety of biological functions, being... more BACKGROUND Flavonoids are a class of compounds with a wide variety of biological functions, being an important source of new products with pharmaceutical potential, including treatment of skin wounds. PURPOSE This review aimed to summarize and evaluate the evidence in the literature in respect of the healing properties of flavonoids on skin wounds in animal models. STUDY DESIGN This is a systematic review following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. METHODS This was carried out through a specialized search of four databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase. The following keyword combinations were used: "flavonoidal" OR "flavonoid" OR "flavonoidic" OR "flavonoids" AND "wound healing" as well as MeSH terms, Emtree terms and free-text words. RESULTS Fifty-five (55) articles met the established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Flavonoids presented effects in respect of the inflammatory process, angiogenesis, re-epithelialization and oxidative stress. They were shown to be able to act on macrophages, fibroblasts and endothelial cells by mediating the release and expression of TGF-β1, VEGF, Ang, Tie, Smad 2 and 3, and IL-10. Moreover, they were able to reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines, NFκB, ROS and the M1 phenotype. Flavonoids acted by positively regulating MMPs 2, 8, 9 and 13, and the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt and NO pathways. CONCLUSION Flavonoids are useful tools in the development of therapies to treat skin lesions, and our review provides a scientific basis for future basic and translational research.

Cardiovascular diseases have a high morbidity and mortality rate and their treatment is not effec... more Cardiovascular diseases have a high morbidity and mortality rate and their treatment is not effective in reducing the damage caused by tissue reperfusion during an acute myocardial infarction (MI). This study aimed to investigate whether nerolidol (NRD), a sesquiterpene alcohol, would attenuate the MI in isoproterenol-treated rat model. MI was induced by the administration of two doses of ISO (100 mg/kg, i.p.) in an interval of 24 h. The animals were divided into 4 groups: control (CTR) (vehicle – saline NaCl 0.9% + TWEEN 80 0.2%), ISO (ISO + vehicle), ISO + NRD (NRD 50 or 100 mg/kg). Electrocardiogram, contractile parameters, cardiac enzymes, infarction size and antioxidant parameters in the heart were measured. ISO group showed a significant rise in ST-segment, QTc and heart rate associated to a reduction of left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), +dP/dt and –dP/dt. Increase in content of creatine kinase (CK), CK-MB, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), TBARS and infarction size as we...

Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências, 2020

This study evaluated whether resistance training (RT) could prevent glucocorticoid-induced vascul... more This study evaluated whether resistance training (RT) could prevent glucocorticoid-induced vascular changes. Wistar rats were divided into groups: control (CO), dexamethasone (DEX), and Dexamethasone+RT (DEX+RT). On the eighth week, dexamethasone was administered in the DEX and DEX+RT groups. Thereafter, the animals were sacrifi ced and blood samples were used to assess the lipid profi le, glucose and insulin. Vascular reactivity to insulin and phenylephrine (Phe) were evaluated. The DEX+RT group presented an improvement in the lipid profi le, fasting glucose, and insulin levels compared to the DEX group. In addition, vasodilation was reduced in the DEX group compared to the CO group, and was increased in the DEX+RT group. After inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, DEX group showed contraction, in which it was in the DEX + RT group. When nitric oxide synthase (NOS) participation was evaluated, the DEX group presented a contraction compared to the CO group, with no contractile effect in the DEX+RT group. Moreover, vasoconstriction caused by NOS inhibition was abolished by BQ123 (endothelin receptor antagonist). In respect Phe response, there was an increase in tension in the DEX group compared to the CO group, being reduced in the DEX+RT group. The results suggest that RT prevented damage to vascular reactivity.

PLOS ONE, 2020

Several pathological conditions predict the use of glucocorticoids for the management of the infl... more Several pathological conditions predict the use of glucocorticoids for the management of the inflammatory response; however, chronic or high dose glucocorticoid treatment is associated with hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance and can be considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, we investigated the mechanisms involved in the vascular responsiveness and inflammatory profile of mesenteric arteries of rats treated with high doses of glucocorticoids. Wistar rats were divided into a control (CO) group and a dexamethasone (DEX) group, that received dexamethasone for 7 days (2mg/kg/day, i.p.). Blood samples were used to assess the lipid profile and insulin tolerance. Vascular reactivity to Phenylephrine (Phe) and insulin, and O 2 •production were evaluated. The intracellular insulin signaling pathway PI3K/AKT/eNOS and MAPK/ET-1 were investigated. Regarding the vascular inflammatory profile, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and IL-18 were assessed. Dexamethasone-treated rats had decreased insulin tolerance test and endothelium-dependent vasodilation induced by insulin. eNOS inhibition caused vasoconstriction in the DEX group, which was abolished by the ET-A antagonist. Insulin-mediated relaxation in the DEX group was restored in the presence of the O 2 .scavenger TIRON. Nevertheless, in the DEX group there was an increase in Phe-induced vasoconstriction. In addition, the intracellular insulin signaling pathway PI3K/AKT/eNOS was impaired, decreasing NO bioavailability. Regarding superoxide anion generation, there was an increase in the DEX group, and all measured proinflammatory cytokines were also augmented in the DEX group. In addition, the DEX-group presented an increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and total cholesterol (TC) and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels. In summary, treatment with high doses of dexamethasone promoted changes in insulin-PLOS ONE

Life Sciences, 2019

Peripheral nerve injuries are common conditions that often lead to dysfunctions. Although much kn... more Peripheral nerve injuries are common conditions that often lead to dysfunctions. Although much knowledge exists on the several factors that mediate the complex biological process involved in peripheral nerve regeneration, there is a lack of effective treatments that ensure full functional recovery. Naringenin (NA) is the most abundant flavanone found in citrus fruits and it has promising neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study aimed to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration using an inclusion complex containing NA and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD), named NA/HPβCD. A mouse sciatic nerve crush model was used to evaluate the effects of NA/HPβCD on nerve regeneration. Sensory and motor parameters, hyperalgesic behavior and the sciatic functional index (SFI), respectively, improved with NA treatment. Western blot analysis revealed that the levels of p75NTR ICD and p75NTR full length as well phospho-JNK/total JNK ratios were preserved by NA treatment. In addition, NA treatment was able to decrease levels of caspase 3. The concentrations of TNF-α and IL-1β were decreased in the lumbar spine, on the other hand there was an increase in IL-10. NA/HPβCD presented a better overall morphological profile but it was not able to increase the number of myelinated fibers. Thus, NA was able to enhance nerve regeneration, and NA/HPβCD decreased effective drug doses while maintaining the effect of the pure drug, demonstrating the advantage of using the complex over the pure compound.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents, 2018

Terpenes are a class of secondary metabolites that can be found in a variety of animal and plants... more Terpenes are a class of secondary metabolites that can be found in a variety of animal and plants species. They are considered the most structurally diversified and abundant of all natural compounds. Several studies have shown the application of terpenes, such as carvacrol, linalool, and limonene in many pharmaceutical and medicinal fields, including cardiovascular disorders, the leading cause of death worldwide. Areas covered: In this review, the authors outlined patents from the last 10 years relating to the therapeutic application of terpenes for the treatment and/or prevention of cardiovascular diseases found in different databases, emphasizing the possibility of these compounds becoming new drugs that may help to decrease the burden of these disorders. Expert opinion: There has been a growing awareness over recent years of the therapeutic use of terpenes and their derivatives as new pharmaceutical products. Patents involving the use of terpenes have been especially important in the technological development of new strategies for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases by bringing new scientific knowledge into the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore, the development of biotechnologies using natural products should be encouraged in order to increase the variety of drugs available for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Neuroscience, Sep 30, 2017

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is one of the main symptoms found in Fibromyalgia with unclear etiol... more Chronic musculoskeletal pain is one of the main symptoms found in Fibromyalgia with unclear etiology and limited pharmacological treatment. The aim of this study was to complex LIM in β-cyclodextrin (LIM-βCD) and then evaluate its antihyperalgesic effect in an animal model of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy was used for the characterization of the inclusion complex. Male Swiss mice were used for experimental procedures where mechanical hyperalgesia, thermal hyperalgesia, muscular strength, Fos immunofluorescence was studied after induction of hyperalgesia. Mechanism of action was also investigated through tail flick test and capsaicin-induced nociception. Endothermic events and morphological changes showed that the slurry complex method was the best method for the complexation. After induction of hyperalgesia, the oral administration of LIM-βCD (50 mg/kg) significantly increased the paw withdrawal threshold compared to...

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents, 2017

Les thèses des sciences cognitives nous ont habitués à considérer les processus cognitifs comme m... more Les thèses des sciences cognitives nous ont habitués à considérer les processus cognitifs comme manipulant tantôt des symboles et des propositions logiques, tantôt des images et des métaphores. Dans ce dernier cas une certaine place a été accordée à l'expérience vécue du sujet et à sa corporéité. Si l'on peut concevoir, comme l'envisage ce dossier, une pensée iconique, c'est parce qu'elle est sous-tendue par une pensée incarnée, corporelle. C'est du moins ce que les lignes qui suivent tentent de montrer dans le cadre d'un dispositif particulier, celui des musées et des expositions de médiation de savoirs 2. La recherche en communication s'est abondamment intéressée à l'analyse des médias et des grands dispositifs d'expression comme le texte, l'image et leurs différentes combinaisons (fi lms, documentaires, journaux,...) mais fort peu d'attention a été accordée à la médiation corporelle. Il existe pourtant des dispositifs de communication qui accordent une place centrale au corps. Les musées, les centres d'interprétation, les expositions sont des lieux où les objets présentés ne sont accessibles qu'au travers d'une démarche de visite impliquant une 1 Professeur à l'Université catholique de Louvain, Groupe de Recherche en Médiation des Savoirs (GReMS). 2 Même si l'optique adoptée dans cet article pourrait leur être appliquée, nous laisserons de côté les musées d'art et de patrimoine qui soulèvent un autre type de questionnement.

Pharmaceutical Biology, 2016

Context: Chrysobalanus icaco L. (Chrysobalanaceae) has been used for the treatment of abdominal p... more Context: Chrysobalanus icaco L. (Chrysobalanaceae) has been used for the treatment of abdominal pain and cramps. Objective: Assess the chemical and pharmacological profile of the lyophilized aqueous extract from C. icaco leaves (AEC). Materials and methods: Chromatographic methods were used to assess compounds from AEC. Mice were treated with vehicle (control group) or AEC (100, 200 or 400 mg/kg, p.o.) (group with 7-8 mice) and the analgesic profile was assessed employing the acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin, hot plate tests and hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan (CG) or tumour necrosis factor-alpha. The animal motor performance was assessed using rota-rod and grip strength tests. Results: The chromatographic profile of AEC demonstrated the presence of terpenoid compounds. The acute pretreatment with AEC, at all doses, produced a significant (p < 0.01) inhibition of painful bahaviour (11.4 ± 3.6; 10.3 ± 2.8; 11.3 ± 2.2) when compared to the control group (24.7 ± 4.7) in acetic acid-induced writhing test. In the formalin test, AEC were effective in the second phase (p < 0.01) (57.2 ± 10.3; 56.3 ± 9.2; 54.7 ± 8.9) when compared to control group (121.9 ± 18.5). No response was observed in the hot plate test. The higher dose of AEC produced a significant (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05) inhibitory effect on the mechanical hyperalgesia test. AEC did not affect the motor performance of the mice. Discussion: The terpenoids from AEC are known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. So, these results corroborate the experiments using the AEC in inflammatory pain protocols. Conclusion: Our results suggest that AEC act against inflammatory pain.

Pediatric Dermatology, 2016

Background: The true pathogenic mechanism of vitiligo is still unknown. About half of the patient... more Background: The true pathogenic mechanism of vitiligo is still unknown. About half of the patients with this disease have onset before the age of 20 years, making it a serious dermatologic disorder in childhood. Objectives: The objective of this study was to review the literature in a systematic way and identify the main pharmacologic treatments and outcomes in children and adolescents with vitiligo. Methods: Four databases-the National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE-PubMed), Web of Science, Scopus, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences (LILACS)-were used for the search up to January 2015. All electronic search titles, selected abstracts and full-text articles were independently reviewed by a minimum of two reviewers. Results: There were 15 articles from 13 different countries: 3 were retrospective and 12 were prospective; the number of participants in the studies varied between 9 and 400, ages ranged from 0 to 18 years, and the duration of disease ranged from 1 to 17 years. The most commonly used drugs were tacrolimus alone (or combined with clobetasol), pimecrolimus, corticosteroids, and calcipotriol. Treatment duration ranged from 10 days to 6 months with a topical route of administration. Conclusions: The main outcome measurements were morphometric analysis performed using a computer program, hematologic or biochemical change, and photography (predominant). It is unclear which was the most effective treatment for vitiligo, however, it was found that these therapies are all promising in the treatment of the disease. With proper care, disease control and repigmentation, even if partial, can be achieved.

Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia, 2017

Orofacial pain is related to tissues of the head, face, neck and all the intraoral structures; it... more Orofacial pain is related to tissues of the head, face, neck and all the intraoral structures; it is rather debilitating to the patient and also difficult to treat. There are relatively few studies dedicated to the use of natural products to alleviate orofacial pain in preclinical experiment models (performed in experimental animals which provide support for clinical trials). Main objectives of the present systematic review summarize the studies on natural products assessed in animal models for orofacial pain seeking to give evidence to future development of new pharmaceutical products to manage the orofacial pain. Our review includes a thorough search of literature using the terms of orofacial pain, facial pain, medicinal plants and natural products. This search was performed using to retrieve English language articles in Medline-PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. A total of eighteen studies were included in our survey for the inclusion criteria. Firstly, this review identified 210 citations from electronic search, after removal of duplicates and screening for relevant titles and abstracts, a total of eighteen articles were selected to the inclusion criteria established. Our findings suggest that natural products can be a promising or a trump tool for the development of new drugs to treat orofacial pain conditions, but the researchers that deal with experimental preclinical trials of new drugs (including natural products or synthetic drugs) for orofacial pain conditions urgently need to show translational evidence (with clinical approach) of these compounds.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2016

Evidence for the involvement of TNF-α and IL-1β in the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory acti... more Evidence for the involvement of TNF-α and IL-1β in the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of Stachys lavandulifolia Vahl.

The FASEB Journal, 2014

ABSTRACT

The FASEB Journal, 2015

ABSTRACT

Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology, 2022

Cardiovascular diseases have high morbidity and mortality rates, and their treatment is not effec... more Cardiovascular diseases have high morbidity and mortality rates, and their treatment is not effective in reducing the damage caused by myocardial infarction (MI). This study aimed to investigate whether nerolidol (NRD), a sesquiterpene alcohol, could attenuate MI in an isoproterenol-treated rat model. MI was induced by the administration of two doses of isoproterenol (ISO, 100 mg/kg, i.p.) with an interval of 24 h between doses.The animals were divided into four groups: control (CTR) (vehicle - NaCl 0.9% + Tween 80 0.2%), MI (ISO + vehicle), MI + NRD (50 mg/kg) and MI + NRD (100 mg/kg). An electrocardiogram was performed, and contractile parameters, cardiac enzymes, infarction size, and antioxidant parameters in the heart were measured to evaluate the effects of NRD. The ISO group showed a significant rise in ST segment, QTc, and heart rate associated with a reduction in left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), + dP/dt, and -dP/dt. In addition, there were increases in levels of creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and thiobarbituric acid (TBARS); reductions in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities; and an increase in the infarction size. Interestingly, NRD significantly attenuated almost all the parameters of ISO-induced MI mentioned above. Our results suggest that nerolidol attenuates MI caused by ISO by a marked reduction in myocardial infarct size and suppression of oxidative stress. CK total, creatine kinase total; CK-MB, creatine kinase myocardial band; LDH, lactate dehydrogenase; SOD, superoxide dismutase; CAT, catalase. CTR (vehicle group), MI (100 mg/kg of isoproterenol), ISO + NRD 50 (50 mg/kg of nerolidol), and ISO + NRD 100 (100 mg/kg of nerolidol).

Hecogenin is a steroidal sapogenin largely drawn from the plants of the genus Agave, commonly kno... more Hecogenin is a steroidal sapogenin largely drawn from the plants of the genus Agave, commonly known as 'sisal', and is one of the important precursors used by the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of steroid hormones. Hecogenin acetate (HA) is a steroidal sapogenin-acetylated that produces antinociceptive activity. Thus, we evaluate the

The FASEB Journal, 2015

ABSTRACT

The FASEB Journal, 2015

Carvacrol, a phenolic monoterpene present in the oregano essential oil. The aim of this study was... more Carvacrol, a phenolic monoterpene present in the oregano essential oil. The aim of this study was to investigate the wound healing activity of carvacrol incorporated to chitosan bioactive films on ...

Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 2021

Obesity is a major public health problem, and there is increasing scientific interest in its mech... more Obesity is a major public health problem, and there is increasing scientific interest in its mechanisms, as well as a search for new compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can minimize the metabolic complications associated with its pathology. One potential source of these compounds is natural products; Among these, flavonoids are a promising group of natural substances. Flavonoids are active constituents with diverse biological activities and are widely found in plants kingdom. Numerous studies have shown that flavonoids can effectively inhibit obesity and related metabolic disorders. The review synthesizes recent evidence in respect of progress in the understanding of the anti-obesity effects of flavonoids. Such effects which occurs through the modulation of proteins, genes and transcriptional factors involved in decreasing lipogenesis, increasing lipolysis, expenditure energy, stimulating fatty acids B-oxidation, digestion and metabolism of carbohydrates...

The Journal of Public Space, 2020

This article illustrates the concept of "porch placemaking" emerging in various neighbo... more This article illustrates the concept of "porch placemaking" emerging in various neighborhoods in the world during the COVID-19 pandemic. While people face difficulty going to and staying in public spaces, they invent micro-intervention to socialize with others at their front porch, balcony, or window with a lighter, quicker, cheaper approach. These spaces are in-between spaces interfacing private and public realms. Porch placemaking can positively influence socially, culturally, and mentally in neighborhoods, but it seems conditioned to apply by physical, natural, and social settings. Porch placemaking is a quick and improvisational reaction to the pandemic. However, it could be an effective way to enhance a sense of neighborhood even after the pandemic. This article discusses ways to sustain and expand the practice.

Phytomedicine, 2021

BACKGROUND Flavonoids are a class of compounds with a wide variety of biological functions, being... more BACKGROUND Flavonoids are a class of compounds with a wide variety of biological functions, being an important source of new products with pharmaceutical potential, including treatment of skin wounds. PURPOSE This review aimed to summarize and evaluate the evidence in the literature in respect of the healing properties of flavonoids on skin wounds in animal models. STUDY DESIGN This is a systematic review following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. METHODS This was carried out through a specialized search of four databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase. The following keyword combinations were used: "flavonoidal" OR "flavonoid" OR "flavonoidic" OR "flavonoids" AND "wound healing" as well as MeSH terms, Emtree terms and free-text words. RESULTS Fifty-five (55) articles met the established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Flavonoids presented effects in respect of the inflammatory process, angiogenesis, re-epithelialization and oxidative stress. They were shown to be able to act on macrophages, fibroblasts and endothelial cells by mediating the release and expression of TGF-β1, VEGF, Ang, Tie, Smad 2 and 3, and IL-10. Moreover, they were able to reduce the release of inflammatory cytokines, NFκB, ROS and the M1 phenotype. Flavonoids acted by positively regulating MMPs 2, 8, 9 and 13, and the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt and NO pathways. CONCLUSION Flavonoids are useful tools in the development of therapies to treat skin lesions, and our review provides a scientific basis for future basic and translational research.

Cardiovascular diseases have a high morbidity and mortality rate and their treatment is not effec... more Cardiovascular diseases have a high morbidity and mortality rate and their treatment is not effective in reducing the damage caused by tissue reperfusion during an acute myocardial infarction (MI). This study aimed to investigate whether nerolidol (NRD), a sesquiterpene alcohol, would attenuate the MI in isoproterenol-treated rat model. MI was induced by the administration of two doses of ISO (100 mg/kg, i.p.) in an interval of 24 h. The animals were divided into 4 groups: control (CTR) (vehicle – saline NaCl 0.9% + TWEEN 80 0.2%), ISO (ISO + vehicle), ISO + NRD (NRD 50 or 100 mg/kg). Electrocardiogram, contractile parameters, cardiac enzymes, infarction size and antioxidant parameters in the heart were measured. ISO group showed a significant rise in ST-segment, QTc and heart rate associated to a reduction of left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), +dP/dt and –dP/dt. Increase in content of creatine kinase (CK), CK-MB, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), TBARS and infarction size as we...

Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências, 2020

This study evaluated whether resistance training (RT) could prevent glucocorticoid-induced vascul... more This study evaluated whether resistance training (RT) could prevent glucocorticoid-induced vascular changes. Wistar rats were divided into groups: control (CO), dexamethasone (DEX), and Dexamethasone+RT (DEX+RT). On the eighth week, dexamethasone was administered in the DEX and DEX+RT groups. Thereafter, the animals were sacrifi ced and blood samples were used to assess the lipid profi le, glucose and insulin. Vascular reactivity to insulin and phenylephrine (Phe) were evaluated. The DEX+RT group presented an improvement in the lipid profi le, fasting glucose, and insulin levels compared to the DEX group. In addition, vasodilation was reduced in the DEX group compared to the CO group, and was increased in the DEX+RT group. After inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, DEX group showed contraction, in which it was in the DEX + RT group. When nitric oxide synthase (NOS) participation was evaluated, the DEX group presented a contraction compared to the CO group, with no contractile effect in the DEX+RT group. Moreover, vasoconstriction caused by NOS inhibition was abolished by BQ123 (endothelin receptor antagonist). In respect Phe response, there was an increase in tension in the DEX group compared to the CO group, being reduced in the DEX+RT group. The results suggest that RT prevented damage to vascular reactivity.

PLOS ONE, 2020

Several pathological conditions predict the use of glucocorticoids for the management of the infl... more Several pathological conditions predict the use of glucocorticoids for the management of the inflammatory response; however, chronic or high dose glucocorticoid treatment is associated with hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance and can be considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, we investigated the mechanisms involved in the vascular responsiveness and inflammatory profile of mesenteric arteries of rats treated with high doses of glucocorticoids. Wistar rats were divided into a control (CO) group and a dexamethasone (DEX) group, that received dexamethasone for 7 days (2mg/kg/day, i.p.). Blood samples were used to assess the lipid profile and insulin tolerance. Vascular reactivity to Phenylephrine (Phe) and insulin, and O 2 •production were evaluated. The intracellular insulin signaling pathway PI3K/AKT/eNOS and MAPK/ET-1 were investigated. Regarding the vascular inflammatory profile, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and IL-18 were assessed. Dexamethasone-treated rats had decreased insulin tolerance test and endothelium-dependent vasodilation induced by insulin. eNOS inhibition caused vasoconstriction in the DEX group, which was abolished by the ET-A antagonist. Insulin-mediated relaxation in the DEX group was restored in the presence of the O 2 .scavenger TIRON. Nevertheless, in the DEX group there was an increase in Phe-induced vasoconstriction. In addition, the intracellular insulin signaling pathway PI3K/AKT/eNOS was impaired, decreasing NO bioavailability. Regarding superoxide anion generation, there was an increase in the DEX group, and all measured proinflammatory cytokines were also augmented in the DEX group. In addition, the DEX-group presented an increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and total cholesterol (TC) and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels. In summary, treatment with high doses of dexamethasone promoted changes in insulin-PLOS ONE

Life Sciences, 2019

Peripheral nerve injuries are common conditions that often lead to dysfunctions. Although much kn... more Peripheral nerve injuries are common conditions that often lead to dysfunctions. Although much knowledge exists on the several factors that mediate the complex biological process involved in peripheral nerve regeneration, there is a lack of effective treatments that ensure full functional recovery. Naringenin (NA) is the most abundant flavanone found in citrus fruits and it has promising neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study aimed to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration using an inclusion complex containing NA and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD), named NA/HPβCD. A mouse sciatic nerve crush model was used to evaluate the effects of NA/HPβCD on nerve regeneration. Sensory and motor parameters, hyperalgesic behavior and the sciatic functional index (SFI), respectively, improved with NA treatment. Western blot analysis revealed that the levels of p75NTR ICD and p75NTR full length as well phospho-JNK/total JNK ratios were preserved by NA treatment. In addition, NA treatment was able to decrease levels of caspase 3. The concentrations of TNF-α and IL-1β were decreased in the lumbar spine, on the other hand there was an increase in IL-10. NA/HPβCD presented a better overall morphological profile but it was not able to increase the number of myelinated fibers. Thus, NA was able to enhance nerve regeneration, and NA/HPβCD decreased effective drug doses while maintaining the effect of the pure drug, demonstrating the advantage of using the complex over the pure compound.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents, 2018

Terpenes are a class of secondary metabolites that can be found in a variety of animal and plants... more Terpenes are a class of secondary metabolites that can be found in a variety of animal and plants species. They are considered the most structurally diversified and abundant of all natural compounds. Several studies have shown the application of terpenes, such as carvacrol, linalool, and limonene in many pharmaceutical and medicinal fields, including cardiovascular disorders, the leading cause of death worldwide. Areas covered: In this review, the authors outlined patents from the last 10 years relating to the therapeutic application of terpenes for the treatment and/or prevention of cardiovascular diseases found in different databases, emphasizing the possibility of these compounds becoming new drugs that may help to decrease the burden of these disorders. Expert opinion: There has been a growing awareness over recent years of the therapeutic use of terpenes and their derivatives as new pharmaceutical products. Patents involving the use of terpenes have been especially important in the technological development of new strategies for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases by bringing new scientific knowledge into the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore, the development of biotechnologies using natural products should be encouraged in order to increase the variety of drugs available for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Neuroscience, Sep 30, 2017

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is one of the main symptoms found in Fibromyalgia with unclear etiol... more Chronic musculoskeletal pain is one of the main symptoms found in Fibromyalgia with unclear etiology and limited pharmacological treatment. The aim of this study was to complex LIM in β-cyclodextrin (LIM-βCD) and then evaluate its antihyperalgesic effect in an animal model of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy was used for the characterization of the inclusion complex. Male Swiss mice were used for experimental procedures where mechanical hyperalgesia, thermal hyperalgesia, muscular strength, Fos immunofluorescence was studied after induction of hyperalgesia. Mechanism of action was also investigated through tail flick test and capsaicin-induced nociception. Endothermic events and morphological changes showed that the slurry complex method was the best method for the complexation. After induction of hyperalgesia, the oral administration of LIM-βCD (50 mg/kg) significantly increased the paw withdrawal threshold compared to...

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents, 2017

Les thèses des sciences cognitives nous ont habitués à considérer les processus cognitifs comme m... more Les thèses des sciences cognitives nous ont habitués à considérer les processus cognitifs comme manipulant tantôt des symboles et des propositions logiques, tantôt des images et des métaphores. Dans ce dernier cas une certaine place a été accordée à l'expérience vécue du sujet et à sa corporéité. Si l'on peut concevoir, comme l'envisage ce dossier, une pensée iconique, c'est parce qu'elle est sous-tendue par une pensée incarnée, corporelle. C'est du moins ce que les lignes qui suivent tentent de montrer dans le cadre d'un dispositif particulier, celui des musées et des expositions de médiation de savoirs 2. La recherche en communication s'est abondamment intéressée à l'analyse des médias et des grands dispositifs d'expression comme le texte, l'image et leurs différentes combinaisons (fi lms, documentaires, journaux,...) mais fort peu d'attention a été accordée à la médiation corporelle. Il existe pourtant des dispositifs de communication qui accordent une place centrale au corps. Les musées, les centres d'interprétation, les expositions sont des lieux où les objets présentés ne sont accessibles qu'au travers d'une démarche de visite impliquant une 1 Professeur à l'Université catholique de Louvain, Groupe de Recherche en Médiation des Savoirs (GReMS). 2 Même si l'optique adoptée dans cet article pourrait leur être appliquée, nous laisserons de côté les musées d'art et de patrimoine qui soulèvent un autre type de questionnement.

Pharmaceutical Biology, 2016

Context: Chrysobalanus icaco L. (Chrysobalanaceae) has been used for the treatment of abdominal p... more Context: Chrysobalanus icaco L. (Chrysobalanaceae) has been used for the treatment of abdominal pain and cramps. Objective: Assess the chemical and pharmacological profile of the lyophilized aqueous extract from C. icaco leaves (AEC). Materials and methods: Chromatographic methods were used to assess compounds from AEC. Mice were treated with vehicle (control group) or AEC (100, 200 or 400 mg/kg, p.o.) (group with 7-8 mice) and the analgesic profile was assessed employing the acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin, hot plate tests and hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan (CG) or tumour necrosis factor-alpha. The animal motor performance was assessed using rota-rod and grip strength tests. Results: The chromatographic profile of AEC demonstrated the presence of terpenoid compounds. The acute pretreatment with AEC, at all doses, produced a significant (p < 0.01) inhibition of painful bahaviour (11.4 ± 3.6; 10.3 ± 2.8; 11.3 ± 2.2) when compared to the control group (24.7 ± 4.7) in acetic acid-induced writhing test. In the formalin test, AEC were effective in the second phase (p < 0.01) (57.2 ± 10.3; 56.3 ± 9.2; 54.7 ± 8.9) when compared to control group (121.9 ± 18.5). No response was observed in the hot plate test. The higher dose of AEC produced a significant (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05) inhibitory effect on the mechanical hyperalgesia test. AEC did not affect the motor performance of the mice. Discussion: The terpenoids from AEC are known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. So, these results corroborate the experiments using the AEC in inflammatory pain protocols. Conclusion: Our results suggest that AEC act against inflammatory pain.

Pediatric Dermatology, 2016

Background: The true pathogenic mechanism of vitiligo is still unknown. About half of the patient... more Background: The true pathogenic mechanism of vitiligo is still unknown. About half of the patients with this disease have onset before the age of 20 years, making it a serious dermatologic disorder in childhood. Objectives: The objective of this study was to review the literature in a systematic way and identify the main pharmacologic treatments and outcomes in children and adolescents with vitiligo. Methods: Four databases-the National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE-PubMed), Web of Science, Scopus, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences (LILACS)-were used for the search up to January 2015. All electronic search titles, selected abstracts and full-text articles were independently reviewed by a minimum of two reviewers. Results: There were 15 articles from 13 different countries: 3 were retrospective and 12 were prospective; the number of participants in the studies varied between 9 and 400, ages ranged from 0 to 18 years, and the duration of disease ranged from 1 to 17 years. The most commonly used drugs were tacrolimus alone (or combined with clobetasol), pimecrolimus, corticosteroids, and calcipotriol. Treatment duration ranged from 10 days to 6 months with a topical route of administration. Conclusions: The main outcome measurements were morphometric analysis performed using a computer program, hematologic or biochemical change, and photography (predominant). It is unclear which was the most effective treatment for vitiligo, however, it was found that these therapies are all promising in the treatment of the disease. With proper care, disease control and repigmentation, even if partial, can be achieved.

Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia, 2017

Orofacial pain is related to tissues of the head, face, neck and all the intraoral structures; it... more Orofacial pain is related to tissues of the head, face, neck and all the intraoral structures; it is rather debilitating to the patient and also difficult to treat. There are relatively few studies dedicated to the use of natural products to alleviate orofacial pain in preclinical experiment models (performed in experimental animals which provide support for clinical trials). Main objectives of the present systematic review summarize the studies on natural products assessed in animal models for orofacial pain seeking to give evidence to future development of new pharmaceutical products to manage the orofacial pain. Our review includes a thorough search of literature using the terms of orofacial pain, facial pain, medicinal plants and natural products. This search was performed using to retrieve English language articles in Medline-PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. A total of eighteen studies were included in our survey for the inclusion criteria. Firstly, this review identified 210 citations from electronic search, after removal of duplicates and screening for relevant titles and abstracts, a total of eighteen articles were selected to the inclusion criteria established. Our findings suggest that natural products can be a promising or a trump tool for the development of new drugs to treat orofacial pain conditions, but the researchers that deal with experimental preclinical trials of new drugs (including natural products or synthetic drugs) for orofacial pain conditions urgently need to show translational evidence (with clinical approach) of these compounds.

Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2016

Evidence for the involvement of TNF-α and IL-1β in the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory acti... more Evidence for the involvement of TNF-α and IL-1β in the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of Stachys lavandulifolia Vahl.