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SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory distress syndrome coronavirus 2) is the causative agent for the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It raises serious biosecurity questions due to its high contagious potential, thereby triggering rapid and efficient responses by the scientific community to take necessary actions against viral infections. Cumulative scientific evidence suggests that natural products remain one of the main sources for pharmaceutical consumption. It is due to their wide chemical diversity that they are able to fight against almost all kinds of diseases and disorders in humans and other animals. Knowing the overall facts, this study was carried out to investigate the chemical interactions between the active constituents of a promising medicinal plant, Myracrodruon urundeuva, and some specific proteins of SARS-CoV-2. For this, we used molecular docking to predict the most appropriate orientation by binding a molecule (a ligand) to its receptor (a protein). The best results were evaluated by screening their pharmacokinetic properties using the online tool pkCSM. Findings suggest that among 44 chemical compounds of M. urundeuva, agathisflavone, which is abundantly present in its leaf, exhibited excellent molecular affinity (−9.3 to −9.7 kcal.mol−1) with three functional proteins, namely, Spike, MPro, and RBD of SARS-CoV-2. In conclusion, M. urundeuva might be a good source of antiviral agents. Further studies are required to elucidate the exact mechanism of action of the bioactive compounds of M. urundeuva acting against SARS-CoV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In dioecious, bee‐pollinated tree species, male and female flowers offer different resources. It is unclear how this unbalanced quantity and quality of floral resources affects flower visits and pollen transfer to female flowers. We asked, what characteristics of flowering and dynamics of resource production by trees favour flights of bees between male and female trees.We quantified the floral resources produced by individual flowers and entire trees of Myracrodruon urundeuva (Anacardiaceae), measured pollen flow to female flowers, fruit set of naturally pollinated flowers and determined the effective pollinators.Crown volume of male trees was four‐fold, flower number 15‐fold and nectar volume 60 times higher than in female trees. While ~70% of male flowers opened in the morning, ~70% of female flowers opened in the afternoon. Fruit set was 27%. Stingless bee species were the main pollinators, while honeybees were common only on male flowers.Strongly unbalanced production of floral resources, high potential lifespan of female flowers and anticipated opening of male flowers favour pollinator movement and pollen deposition on female flowers, albeit low (0.003% of pollen that reached stigmas), but sufficient to produce thousands of fruits per tree. Besides being an astonishing pollen and nectar source for numerous social bee species, only a few of them were effective pollinators. Our quantitative approach to floral resource production of each gender provides new insights, such as the proportion of resources allocated to each gender and the corresponding behaviour of flower visitors, for understanding the reproductive strategy of dioecious tropical mass‐flowering trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid tests that allow the assessment of physiological potential are essential parameters for quality seed and seedling production programs. The aim of this work was to establish parameters of a method for evaluating the vigor of seeds of native species through the analysis of ethanol production, measured with a modified alcohol meter. Six lots of Myracrodruon urundeuva were tested, and for each lot 1.0 g and 2.0 g of seeds were soaked for two, four, six, eight and 24 hours. Seven lots of Cenostigma pyramidale and five lots of Amburana cearensis were tested, where 20 seeds were soaked for two, four, six, eight and 24 h. The physiological quality of the seeds was also evaluated by germination and electrical conductivity tests. The use of 1.0 g of seeds soaked in 0.5 mL of water and evaluation of ethanol at six hours distinguished lots of M. urundeuva in terms of vigor. For C. pyramidale and A. cearensis, 20 seeds soaked in 1.0 mL of water and ethanol evaluation at six hours proved to be more efficient. The ethanol test proved to be fast and accurate, allowing differentiation of lots, as well as germination and electrical conductivity tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Myracrodruon urundeuva heartwood is resistant to termite and fungal attack. • Moringa oleifera seeds are susceptible to attack by termites and fungi. • Methanolic (ME) and saline (SE) extracts from M. urundeuva were prepared. • Moringa seeds were sprayed with ME and SE and infested by termites. • Perforations made by termites and seed vigor and sanity were evaluated. • SE promoted protection against termite attack. • The extracts did not improve seed sanity. Moringa oleifera seeds contain several biotechnologically-relevant molecules but are susceptible to termite attack. On the other hand, Myracrodruon urundeuva is strongly resistant to deterioration and it was previously reported the termiticidal activity of preparations from its heartwood against Nasutitermes corniger. This work evaluated whether methanolic (ME) and saline (SE) extracts from M. urundeuva heartwood would be able to protect M. oleifera seeds against N. corniger and improve seed sanity. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy analysis was used to identify the chemical profile of the extracts. Seeds were sprayed for 5 days with ME (S ME), SE (S SE), or positive control 1% (v/v) sodium hypochlorite (S SH) and then infested by workers and soldiers. Controls were also performed using seeds not treated with the extracts and infested (S T control) or not (S control). After death of all termites, the seeds were analyzed for vigor (by measurements of electric conductivity in the exudates) and sanity. The representative 1H NMR spectra showed phenolic compounds among the main components of the extracts. Mortality rate of workers and soldiers after 7 days was 100% in S ME , S SE , and S SH while it was 50% in S T control. Perforations made by termites were observed in seeds from S T control and S ME treatment but not in seeds treated with SE. Analysis of vigor revealed that seeds from control S T or those treated with ME or sodium hypochlorite were damaged by termites while SE promoted protection against N. corniger. Fusarium spp., Penicillium spp. and Trichoderma harziamum were identified in treatments and controls, revealing that the extracts did not improve seed sanity. In conclusion, SE from M. urundeuva heartwood conferred protection against N. corniger attack when sprayed on M. oleifera seeds and this effect can be related with lectin presence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytotherapy based on plant-derived compounds is an alternative medicinal strategy for the relief of symptoms and the curing of diseases. The leaves of Myracrodruon urundeuva a medicinal plant also known as "aroeira", has been used in traditional medicine as healing, antiulcer and anti-inflammatory to treat skeletal diseases in Brazil, but its role in bone cell toxicity, as well as in bone formation, remains to be established. We sought to determine the in vitro osteogenic effects of a hydroalcoholic M. urundeuva leaves extract in primary human osteoblasts. Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and matrix mineralization were evaluated by MTT assay, DCFH-DA probe, colorimetric-based enzymatic assay and Alizarin Red-staining, respectively. Besides, the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and progressive ankylosis protein homolog (ANKH) gene expression were determined by real-time RT-qPCR and MMP-2 activity by zymography. Exposure of osteoblasts to M. urundeuva extract significantly decreased viability and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, regardless of the extract concentration. The M. urundeuva extract at 10 μg/mL also downregulated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, while upregulating progressive ankylosis protein homolog (ANKH) gene expression. By contrast, the MMP-2 activity was unchanged. The M. urundeuva extract at 10 μg/mL also reduced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization. Overall, our findings suggest that the inhibition of osteogenic differentiation and matrix mineralization promoted by M. urundeuva may be due more to an increase in oxidative stress than to the modulation of MMP-2 and ANKH expression. Image 1 • Influence of osteogenic differentiation in primary human osteoblasts by Myracrodruon urundeuva extract is demonstrated. • High concentration of Myracrodruon urundeuva extract decreases cell viability, and MMP-2 expression while increases ROS and ANKH gene expression. • High concentration of Myracrodruon urundeuva extract reduces in vitro mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Technosols created to reclaim degraded soils is a promising solution that needs further research. The objectives of the study were: i) to create a Technosol with a very high capacity to immobilize copper from mining, ii) to assess the capacity of the Technosol to immobilize copper after planting two tropical native tree species, and iii) to analyse the capacity of the native trees for extracting copper from polluted soils. Myracrodruon urundeuva (aroeira) and Cedrela fissilis (pink cedar) were planted in pots with Technosol spiked with copper at concentrations of 125, 1525 and 3050 mg Cu kg−1. Height and stem diameter were measured over 90 days. Biomass and Cu concentration in leaves, stem and roots were determined. Copper was analysed in soils by sequential extraction, as well as in leached water. The Technosol showed a very high capacity to immobilize copper, since 60–80% of the added copper was strongly retained in the soil, mainly by bentonite and carbonates. The Technosol with trees showed the same capacity to immobilize copper as the control, since concentration in shoots was higher than 300 mg Cu kg−1 and concentration in roots was even higher. These results show that Technosol and both species are useful tools to immobilize copper in polluted soils. Further studies are necessary to determine the total capacity of these trees to immobilize and/or extract copper in the long term and under field conditions. Graphical abstract Image 1023690 Highlights • Bentonite in Technosols keeps high capacity to sorb Cu with compost. • Myracrodruon urundeuva and Cedrela fissilis have a high availability to accumulate Cu. • Technosol-trees system has a high potential to remediate Cu-polluted soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myracrodruon urundeuva ("aroeira") is a dioecious tree of the seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF) of Brazil and source of a unique unifloral honey. To discriminate this honey by its pollen spectra, we compared melissopalynological analysis of reference honey samples with those of other samples collected in the SDTF belt. Reference honeys had on average 99% of aroeira pollen, while the other honey samples averaged 84% of this pollen. We used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, applied here for the first time in honey analysis, for determining the cut-off value of at least 93% of Myracrodruon pollen in a sample for classifying unifloral aroeira honey. The over-representation of aroeira pollen in this honey reflects that honeybees visited ten times as many staminate flowers as pistillate flowers. We conclude that unifloral aroeira honey has uniform pollen spectra, as a byproduct of the preference of honeybees for staminate flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the influence of Azospirillum lipoferum on the growth of Myracroduon urundeuva (Anacardiaceae) plants under drought stress, by means of biometric, physical-chemical and biochemical parameters. The association of A. lipoferum with the roots of the plants provided increases of 30% root length, 50% root dry weight, 34% shoot dry weight and 10% soluble protein content. The inoculated plants still maintained 5% higher leaf water potential than those not inoculated and lower membrane damage. Furthermore, the inoculated plants shown less leaf fall and dark green leaves, confirmed by maintenance of the highest levels of chlorophyl a, b and total. On the other hand, superoxide dismutase activity was significantly lower in the inoculated plants, possibly due to the induction of a non-enzymatic protective feature. In this way, the inoculation of PGPR in M. urundeuva can be an alternative for the production of plants that are more tolerant to drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed exudates are plant-derived natural bioactive compounds consisting of a complex mixture of organic and inorganic molecules. Plant seed exudates have been poorly studied against parasite nematodes. This study was undertaken to identify proteins in the Myracrodruon urundeuva seed exudates and to assess the anthelmintic activity against Haemonchus contortus, an important parasite of small ruminants. M. urundeuva seed exudates (SEX) was obtained after immersion of seeds in sodium acetate buffer. SEX was fractionated with ammonium sulfate at 0–90% concentration to generate the ressuspended pellet (SEXF1) and the supernatant (SEXF2). SEX, SEXF1, and SEXF2 were exhaustively dialyzed against distilled water (cut-off: 12 kDa) and the protein contents determined. Mass spectrometry analyses of SEX, SEXF1, and SEXF2 were done to identify proteins and secondary metabolites. The seed exudates contained protease, protease inhibitor, peptidase, chitinase, and lipases as well as the low molecular weight secondary compounds ellagic acid and quercetin rhamnoside. SEX inhibited H. contortus larval development (LDA) (IC50 = 0.29 mg mL-1), but did not affect larval exsheathment (LEIA). On the other hand, although SEXF1 and SEXF2 inhibited H. contortus LEIA (IC50 = 1.04 and 0.93 mg mL-1, respectively), they showed even greater inhibition efficiency of H. contortus larval development (IC50 = 0.29 and 0.42 mg mL-1, respectively). To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to show the anthelmintic activity of plant exudates against a gastrointestinal nematode. Moreover, it suggests the potential of exuded proteins as candidates to negatively interfere with H. contortus life cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study evaluated the effect of the hydroalcoholic extracts of Myracrodruon urundeuva All. and Qualea grandiflora Mart. leaves (alone or combined) on the viability of Streptococcus mutans biofilm and on the prevention of enamel demineralization. Methods Strain of S. mutans (ATCC 21175) was reactivated in BHI broth. Minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, minimum inhibition biofilm concentration and minimum eradication biofilm concentration were determined in order to choose the concentrations to be tested under biofilm model. S. mutans biofilm (5 × 10 5 CFU/ml) was produced on bovine enamel, using McBain saliva under 0.2% sucrose exposure, for 3 days. The biofilm was daily treated with the extracts for 1 min. The biofilm viability was tested by fluorescence and the enamel demineralization was measured using TMR. Results Myracrodruon urundeuva All. (Isolated or combined) at the concentrationsc ≥0.625 mg/ml was able to reduce bacteria viability, while Qualea Grandflora Mart. alone had antimicrobial effect at 5 mg/ml only (p < 0.05). On the other hand, none of the extracts were able to reduce enamel demineralization. Conclusions The hydroalcoholic extracts of Myracrodruon urundeuva All. and Qualea grandiflora Mart. leaves (isolated or combined) have antimicrobial action; however, they do not prevent enamel caries under S. mutans biofilm model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoanalytical techniques have been applied in studies of herbal products. Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão (Anacardiaceae) is a native of Brazil with medicinal properties. This study aimed to characterize the dry extracts of M. urundeuva Allemão and to assess the compatibility of extracts with pharmaceutical excipients in physical mixtures using thermogravimetry (TG) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The TG curve of M. urundeuva dry extract (ES) showed the occurrence of four mass loss events. The most significant mass loss of extract was observed between 193.5 and 267.0 °C with a loss of 29.7%. The DTA curve showed the endothermic nature of this event with a peak at 235.8 °C (ΔH = 568.5 J g−1). This event is associated with the thermal decomposition of carbohydrates and other organic compounds present in the plant. The SEM image showed the particles of dry extract with spherical shapes, irregular sizes and rough surfaces. SEM analysis of physical mixtures showed that extract dry particles maintained their spherical morphology and appeared uniformly dispersed in the excipient particles. The TG and DTA curves showed no thermal incompatibility between the ES and the excipients lactose, cellulose and starch, but indicated a possible interaction with maltodextrin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This systematic review was carried out to identify which naturally-occurring agents and constituents isolated therefrom have effects in preventing bone loss in a ligature-induced periodontitis model. Materials and methods Eight databases were systematically searched for studies of experimental periodontitis. The data were extracted, analyzed, and the treatment outcomes were given scores based on the level of bone destruction as compared to their untreated induced-periodontitis control. Results 294 articles were found, of which 15 met the inclusion criteria. The selected studies tested a multi-herbal formulation; extracts (leaves, barks or fruit) of different plant species; and propolis. The most usual dosing protocol consisted of 3-times-a-day, 11-day treatment. The combined gel of Myracrodruon urundeuva (5%) and Lippia sidoides (0.5%) was the most active treatment, reducing 45–65% bone loss in the region of molars as compared to 73.4% of doxycycline (gold-standard). Ginkgo biloba extract (28–56 mg/kg) and propolis (100–200 mg/kg) prevented bone destruction by 50% and 40–44%, respectively. The other tested samples showed intermediate/weak activity in modulating bone resorption. Conclusions The gel of M. urundeuva and L. sidoides , and G. biloba and propolis extracts showed strong alveolar bone protective effectiveness in induced-periodontitis in rats. Further translational research should bridge the gap between the rat study outcomes and the clinical efficacy and long-term toxicity of these formulations in humans. The compilation of the vast literature database presented herein may drive further in vivo and clinical studies with the selected efficacious formulations to subsidize their pharmaceutical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myracrodruon urundeuva (Engl.) Fr. All., commonly known as “aroeira-do-sertão”, is a medicinal plant from Anacardiaceae family. In this study, the chemical composition of M. urundeuva essential oil (MuEO) was evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), as well as its anti- Leishmania potential, cytotoxicity, and macrophage activation capability as possible antiprotozoal mechanism of action were assessed. Fourteen compounds were identified, which constituted 94.87% of total oil composition. The most abundant components were monoterpenes (80.35%), with β-myrcene (42.46%), α-myrcene (37.23%), and caryophyllene (4.28%) as the major constituents. The MuEO inhibited the growth of promastigotes (IC 50 205 ± 13.4 μg mL −1 ), axenic amastigotes (IC 50 104.5 ± 11.82 μg mL −1 ) and decreased percentage of macrophage infection and number of amastigotes per macrophage (IC 50 of 44.5 ± 4.37 μg⋅mL −1 ), suggesting significant anti- Leishmania activity. The cytotoxicity of MuEO was assessed by MTT test in Balb/c murine macrophages and by human erythrocytes lysis assay and low cytotoxicity for these cells was observed. The CC 50 value against macrophages were 550 ± 29.21 μg mL −1 , while cytotoxicity for erythrocytes was around 20% at the highest concentration assessed, with HC 50 > 800 μg mL −1 . While MuEO-induced anti- Leishmania activity is not mediated by increases in both lysosomal activity and nitric oxide production in macrophages, the results suggest the antiamastigote activity is associated with an immunomodulatory activity of macrophages due to an increase of phagocytic capability induced by MuEO. Thus, MuEO presented significant activity against Leishmania amazonensis , probably modulating the activation of macrophages, with low cytotoxicity to murine macrophages and human erythrocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, dengue fever is considered the most important arbovirosis worldwide and its control is still based upon combating the vector Aedes aegypti . Besides monitoring of mosquito populations resistant to conventional insecticides, the search for new environmentally safe insecticides and conduction of molecular studies focusing on the elucidation of mode of action and possible resistance mechanisms are considered the key for a sustainable management of the mosquito vector. Thus, the present work aimed to assess changes in protein expression of 3rd-instar larvae of Ae. aegypti after exposure to the natural insecticide m -pentadecadienyl-phenol. Bidimensional electrophoresis followed by mass spectrometry resulted in identification of 12 proteins differentially expressed between control and treated groups. Larvae exposed to the toxic compound for 24 h showed elevated detoxification response (glutathione- S -transferase), increased levels of stress-related proteins (HSP70) as well as evidence of lysosome stabilization to enable survival. Furthermore, expression of proteins involved in protection of peritrophic membrane and metabolism of lipids indicated systemic effect of toxic effects in treated larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The combination of antibiotics with natural products has demonstrated promising synergistic effects in several therapeutic studies. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a combination of an ethanol extract of Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. All. (Anacardiaceae) (aroeira plant) and its essential oil with six antimicrobial drugs against multiresistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli from clinical isolates. Materials and methods: After identification of the chemical components by GC-MS, the antibacterial activity of the natural products and antibiotics was assessed by determining the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) using the microdilution method and concentrations ranging 8-512 μg/mL and 0.0012-2.5 mg/mL, respectively. Assays were performed to test for a possible synergistic action between the plant products and the antimicrobials, using the extract and the oil at a sub-inhibitory concentration (128 μg/mL) and antibiotic at concentrations varying between 8 and 512 μg/mL. Results: The GC-MS analysis identified the main compound as δ-carene (80.41%). The MIC of the natural products was >1024 μg/mL, except against S. aureus ATCC25923. Only the combinations of the natural products with gentamicin, amikacin and clindamycin were effective against S. aureus 358, enhancing the antibiotic activity by reducing the MIC. Conclusions: The extract from aroeira showed a higher antibacterial activity and the oil was more effective in potentiating the activity of conventional antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation and restoration projects involving abandoned cattle pastures pose several challenges. Restoration ecologists recognize that natural restoration is possible, but few species can successfully colonize degraded pastures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether land colonized by the tree Myracrodruon urundeuva increase the amount of habitat available for bird communities in Southeastern Brazil. We used fixed point counts within a 50m radius to compare the richness and composition of the bird community inhabiting naturally regenerated M. urundeuva with that an adjacent native forest remnant and a forest restored with planted Acacia spp. We recorded a total of 68 bird species. The M. urundeuva forest was able to provide valuable habitat for bird species, including more forest species, in comparison with the Acacia planting. These results indicate that M. urundeuva is a useful species for the ecological restoration of degraded pasture land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] AMF alter the production of biomolecules in M. urundeuva seedlings. [•] A. longula increased primary and secondary metabolites content in M. urundeuva. [•] The herbage of M. urundeuva seedlings inoculated with A. longula has better quality, and the mycorrhization is a sustainable alternative to cultivate this specie. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We investigated Zn tolerance and related tolerance mechanisms of Myracrodruon urundeuva by evaluating the growth (biomass production, pigment content, and photosynthetic activity) and antioxidant systems (redox potential and antioxidant enzyme activities) of seedlings exposed to increasing Zn doses. Plants were grown for 120 days in substrates with 0, 50, 80, 120 and 200 mg Zn kg−1 and demonstrated Zn-tolerance. Zn doses greater than 80 mg Zn kg−1 were phytotoxic but not lethal, and Zn toxicity under these conditions was imposed by oxidative stress caused by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation and related lipid peroxidation. Zn tolerance in M. urundeuva is linked to the activity of antioxidant systems in their leaves that are modulated by that metal: both superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were always higher in the presence of Zn; lower Zn doses stimulated ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities, but enzyme activity was inhibited at high doses; APX appeared to be the main peroxidase in H2O2 scavenging as stimulated guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) activity was not sufficient to avoid H2O2 accumulation at higher Zn doses; the modulation of APX and GR activities was linked to changes in the redox status of leaves. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aedes aegypti transmits the viruses that cause yellow and dengue fevers. Vector control is essential, since a vaccine for dengue has not as yet been made available. This work reports on the larvicidal activity of Myracrodruon urundeuva leaf lectin (MuLL) against A. aegypti fourth-stage larvae (L). Also, the resistance of MuLL to digestion by L gut proteases and the effects of MuLL on protease, trypsin-like and α-amylase activities from L gut were evaluated to determine if lectin remains active in A. aegypti gut and if insect enzyme activities can be modulated by MuLL. MuLL promoted mortality of L with LC of 0.202 mg/ml. Haemagglutinating activity of MuLL was detected even after incubation for 96 h with L gut preparation containing protease activity. MuLL affected the activity of gut enzymes, inhibiting protease and trypsin activities and stimulating α-amylase activity. The results suggest that MuLL may become a new biodegradable larvicidal agent for dengue control. Larvicidal activity of MuLL may be linked to its resistance to proteolysis by larval enzymes and interference in the activity of digestive larval enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to estimate parameters and genetic values in aroeira (Myracrodruon urundeuva) progenies for growth and survival traits. These estimates are intended to support the first genetic improvement program for the species in the Pantanal region of the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The adopted experimental design was the random blocks with 30 treatments (progenies), six replications (blocks) and six plants per plot distributed in single rows with 3 x 2m allotment. When the progenies were two years old, they were evaluated for height, diameter at base height, number of leaf shoots and survival. The progenies mean heritability showed moderate magnitudes, especially regarding height (0.19) and number of leaf shoots (0.30). The genetic values predicted with sexual and asexual propagation indicate higher possibilities of genetic gains using clone plantations. Even though most of the individuals from the present generation show superior performance than the former generation, genitors with potential above the others must be part of the seed orchard composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anthelmintic resistance has limited the control of gastrointestinal nematodes of small ruminants and thus has awakened interest in the study of tanniferous plants as a source of anthelmintics. These experiments were carried out to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of Myracrodruon urundeuva leaf extract (LE) and stem extract (SE) against Haemonchus contortus. An inhibitor of tannins, polyvinyl polypyrrolidone (PVPP), was used to verify if these metabolites are involved in the anthelmintic activity of the extracts. To evaluate the ovicidal effect, H. contortus eggs were incubated with the extracts (0.31 to 5 mg/mL) for 48 h. In the larval artificial exsheathment assay, third-stage larvae of this nematode were incubated with extracts (0.31 mg/mL) for 3 h and then were exposed to a sodium hypochlorite solution. The exsheathment process was evaluated for 60 min. The results were subjected to the Kruskal-Wallis test ( P < 0.05). The extracts showed dose-dependent ovicidal effects, although the LE was more effective, inhibiting egg hatching by 97.73% at 1.25 mg/mL, while the SE inhibited hatching by 83.56% at 5 mg/mL. Contact with the extracts blocked the larval exsheathment ( P < 0.05). The addition of PVPP confirmed the role of tannins, as there was a substantial reduction in egg hatching and larval exsheathment percentage. These results suggest that M. urundeuva can be used to control gastrointestinal nematodes of small ruminants and that the anthelmintic activity of this plant is probably related to tannins; however, in vivo studies should be conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The isolation of lectins from Myracrodruon urundeuva bark (MuBL) and heartwood (MuHL) as well as the termiticidal activity of MuHL against Nasutitermes corniger has already been described. This work reports on the purification of a leaf lectin (MuLL) and the characterization of MuBL, MuHL, and MuLL; also described are the resistance of hemagglutinating activity of the three lectins to trypsin activity from N. corniger gut and the termiticidal activity on N. corniger of MuBL (LC50 of 0.974 mg ml−1 on workers and 0.787 mg ml−1 on soldiers) and MuLL (LC50 of 0.374 mg ml−1 on workers and 0.432 mg ml−1 on soldiers). The antibacterial effect of MuBL, MuHL, and MuLL on bacteria from gut of N. corniger was also investigated and lectins showed similar bacteriostatic activity (MIC of 62.5 μg ml−1 for workers and 125 μg ml−1 for soldiers). MuBL and MuHL were more efficient bactericidal agents on bacteria in the workers’ gut (MBC of 125 μg ml−1) than MuLL (MBC of 250 μg ml−1) and similar bactericidal activity was detected on bacteria in the gut of soldiers (MBC of 250 μg ml−1). The termiticidal activity of M. urundeuva lectins can be explained by the chitin-binding property, resistance to termite digestive enzyme, and the antibacterial effect on symbiotic bacteria of N. corniger gut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to conductpre-clinical toxicology testing to investigate the toxicity of Lippia sidoides Cham.,Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. All., Stryphnodendron adstringens (Mart.) Coville and Caryocar brasiliense Camb., by determining the 50% (LDL50) lethal dose. In the investigation of the LD50, groups of Swiss mice of the same sex were used (n=150; 30 animals per plant and all inoculated intraperitoneally with serial dilutions of the aqueous fraction obtained from the leaves of plants. After inoculation, the animals were observed along a period of 14 days in order to observe the dead, sick and survivors rate. In mice inoculated intraperitoneally, the acute pre-clinical toxicology testing demonstrated toxicity equal to 0,31mg mL-1 LD50 mL-1 for all plants. The exception was for Stryphnodendron adstringens, which presented toxicity equal to a 0,25mg mL-1DL50 mL-1 and values expressed in terms of dilution. Research should be conducted to obtain data on toxicity of the plants in other ways to ensure the use in human and animal health. Therefore, the studied plants should be used with caution. They present a relatively mild toxic potential, but it may be harmful to users if they are not properly utilized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Myracrodruon urundeuva heartwood is resistant to biodeterioration and lectin purified from heartwood showed antifungal and termiticidal activities. This report deals with antioxidant, antifungal and termite repellent activities of secondary metabolites from M. urundeuva heartwood. Saline (SE, active hemagglutinin preparation) and methanolic (ME, without hemagglutinating activity) extracts contain phenolic compounds, gallic acid, flavonoids, luteolin, cinamic derivatives, proanthocyanidins, hydrolysable tannins, and leucoanthocyanidins. Both SE and ME showed antioxidant activity and were effective in Fusarium growth inhibition. SE was efficient against Fusarium decemcellulare, Fusarium moniliforme, Fusarium oxysporum, and Fusarium solani but it had little effect against Fusarium lateritium. ME practically had no effect on F. decemcellulare and was more active than SE against F. lateritium. SE induced mortality of Nasutitermes corniger (LC50 of 1.81mgml−1 for soldiers and 2.59mgml−1 for workers) and had no repellent activity. ME had no termiticidal activity but was a good repellent. The detected bioactivities point out the possibility of participation of secondary metabolites in the resistance of M. urundeuva heartwood to biodeterioration. Additionally, the results indicate the use of wood residues, as extracts, a source of natural bioactive agents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aedes aegypti transmits etiologic agents of yellow fever and dengue. Vaccine for dengue virus is not available and vector control is essential to minimize dengue incidence. This report deals with the larvicidal activity of lectins isolated from Myracrodruon urundeuva bark (MuBL) and heartwood (MuHL). The lectins were isolated by ammonium sulphate treatment of crude extracts followed by chromatography on chitin. MuBL and MuHL were evaluated by electrophoresis under native (PAGE) and denaturing conditions (SDS-PAGE). Carbohydrate specificity of lectins was evaluated by hemagglutinating activity (HA) inhibition assay using N-acetyl-d-glucosamine and by affinity chromatography on N-acetyl-d-glucosamine immobilized in agarose gel. Larvicidal activity against A. aegypti was investigated with the extracts, salt fractions and isolated lectins. MuBL and MuHL were characterized by PAGE as basic proteins of molecular masses of 14.0 and 14.4 kDa, respectively. The interaction of lectins with N-acetylglucosamine was detected by inhibition of HA by monosaccharide and lectin adsorptions on N-acetyl-d-glucosamine matrix. All M. urundeuva preparations promoted larvae mortality. LC16, LC50 and LC84 values of 0.077, 0.125, 0.173 for MuBL and 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05 mg/mL for MuHL were obtained. To our knowledge this is the first report of larvicidal activity of lectins against A. aegypti. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Termites are eusocial insects that can promote severe damage in wood. The presence of lectins, carbohydrate-binding proteins that have shown entomotoxic activity, was detected in the saline extract from Myracrodruon urundeuva, a termite-resistant heartwood. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of M. urundeuva heartwood lectin on termites of Nasutitermes corniger. The lectin isolated by affinity chromatography (chitin column) was submitted to trypsin treatment and analyzed for the presence of non-protein contaminants. Lectin''s effect on N. corniger was evaluated by termiticidal and repellence assays. Lectin activity was inhibited by N-acetylglucosamine monosaccharide and adsorbed on a chitin column. The lectin preparation obtained was free of secondary plant metabolites that can promote insect mortality. Contact with lectin in all concentrations induced mortality of termites. The values of LC50 were 0.248mgml−1 for workers and 0.199mgml−1 for soldiers, after 4 days. Repellence assay indicated that the lectin did not induce a rejection effect. The lectin remained active after incubation with bovine trypsin. This is the first report of lectin''s toxic effect on termites. The effect of M. urundeuva lectin on N. corniger survival points out the possibility of using this bioactive peptide to aid resistance of M. urundeuva heartwood to termites. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In Brazilian folk medicine, Lippia sidoides (Ls) and Myracrodruon urundeuva (Mu) have gained popularity and reputation as effective antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of topical herbal gel from Ls 0.5% (v/w) and Mu 5% (w/w) in experimental periodontal disease (EPD) in rats. Wistar rats were subjected to ligature placement around the second upper left molars. Animals were treated topically with Ls and/or Mu-based gel, immediately after EPD induction and three times/day for 11 days until the rats were sacrificed (11th day). Saline-based gel was utilized as control for all experiments and doxycycline based gel 10% (w/w) was utilized as reference substance. Animals were weighed daily. Alveolar bone loss was measured as the difference (in millimeters) between the cusp tip and the alveolar bone. The periodontum and the surrounding gingivae were examined at histopathology, as well as the neutrophil influx into the gingivae was assayed using myeloperoxidase activity and cytokine production mainly tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels by ELISA method. The local bacterial flora was assessed through culture of the gingival tissue in standard aerobic and anaerobic media. Alveolar bone loss was significantly inhibited by Ls and Mu combined treatment compared to the saline control group. Ls and Mu combined treatment reduced tissue lesion at histopathology, with partial preservation of the periodontum, coupled to decreased myeloperoxidase activity as well as significantly inhibited TNF-α and IL-1β production in gingival tissue compared to the saline control group. Ls and Mu combined treatment also prevented the growth of oral microorganisms and the weight loss. Ls and Mu combined based gel treatment preserved alveolar bone resorption and demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities in experimental periodontitis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the present work we studied the neuroprotective effect of a tannin-enriched fraction (TEF) on rat primary mesencephalic cells culture, before (preventive protocol) and after (curative protocol) exposure to the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6- OHDA). TEF was isolated from the stem bark of Myracrodruoun urundeuva, a Brazilian medicinal plant, largely used as a female genital tract antiinflammatory. The results showed that TEF (0.1 to 100 μg/ml) significantly reversed 6-OHDA-induced toxicity on neuronal cells as measured by the MTT assay, which expresses the degree of cell viability and integrity, in both protocols. Although the reversion was only partial, it was observed even at the lowest TEF concentration, and MTT absorbance returned to values close to those of controls. TEF was also very effective when added to cells culture before and after the neurotoxin, and reversed completely the 6-OHDA-induced lipid peroxidation, indicated by the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). However, TEF did not reverse the increase in nitrite concentration observed in the cell culture in the presence of 6-OHDA. The neuroprotective mechanism of TEF seems to be related with mitochondrial protection and antioxidani activity exhibited by tanning presented in the stem bark from Al. urundeuva. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

O armazenamento de sementes quando realizado sob condições adequadas pode minimizar a velocidade de deterioração, permitindo a conservação da viabilidade e do vigor das sementes por um período mais longo do que o obtido em condições naturais. Objetivou-se com este trabalho avaliar o comportamento fisiológico das sementes de aroeira-do-sertão (Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão) armazenadas em diferentes embalagens e ambientes. As coletas foram feitas de plantas matrizes em área do Campo Experimental da Caatinga da Embrapa Semiárido, Petrolina - PE, em seguida as sementes foram processadas e armazenadas no Laboratório de Análise de Sementes da Embrapa Semiárido - LASESA, Petrolina - PE, em duas embalagens (sacos de plástico e de papel) sob dois ambientes distintos: câmara fria sem desumidificador (10± 1 °C /70±7% UR), sala refrigerada por condicionador de ar (25±5 °C/66±1% UR), durante 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 e 24 meses. Antes e após os períodos de armazenamento as sementes foram avaliadas quanto à germinação (%) e teor de água. O delineamento utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, com uma testemunha absoluta (sem armazenamento) e um esquema fatorial 6x2 (tempo de armazenamento x ambiente), para cada embalagem em que as sementes foram acondicionadas. O teste de média foi o teste de Tukey a um nível de 5% de probabilidade. O teor de água (TA) inicial das sementes de M. urundeuva foi de 9,62%. Após o armazenamento em câmara fria houve aumento do TA. As sementes mantidas em sala refrigerada, apresentaram TA menor ou igual ao inicial. As porcentagens de germinação das sementes armazenadas mantiveram-se acima de 80% independente do período de armazenamento. Portanto, sementes de M. urundeuva podem ser armazenadas em ambiente de sala refrigerada ou câmara fria durante 2 anos sem prejuízo da qualidade fisiológica das sementes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]