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Dans la recherche de nouveaux traitements thérapeutiques contre les maladies endémiques et récurrentes ; et dans le but de rassurer la population sur l’utilisation des médicaments à base de plantes, une étude toxicologique de deux adventices médicinales ivoiriennes : Ageratum conyzoides et Acanthospermum hispidum, a été faite. Cette étude consistait à la mise en évidence de la toxicité cellulaire sur les cellules humaines HFF et la toxicité aiguë sur des souris, des extraits éthanoliques 70 % de ces deux plantes. L’extrait éthanolique 70 % de A. hispidum n’est pas toxique, ni pour les cellules humaines aux concentrations de 125 à 1000 μg/mL, ni pour les souris aux doses de 0-45 000 mg/kg/Vo. Aucun signe de changement de comportement n’a été observé à ces mêmes doses. Par contre, l’extrait éthanolique 70 % de A. conyzoides est légèrement toxique sur les cellules HFF en prolifération à 1000 μg/mL (taux de viabilité de 40 %). Cet extrait ne présente pas de toxicité sur les souris à des doses inférieures à 15 000 mg/kg/Vo. Cependant aux doses supérieures à 15 000 mg/kg/Vo bien qu’aucune mortalité de souris n’a été observée, des troubles symptomatiques, des difficultés motrices, une dyspnée et une somnolence chez les souris traitées ont été constatés. Ainsi, ces deux adventices ne présentent pas de toxicité avérée, ce qui justifie leur utilisation dans la médecine traditionnelle.

Plants are good source of antimicrobial agents and may be used for alternative drug formation in future. In the present study, comparative antimicrobial analysis of four species of family Asteraceae in southern Rajasthan has been investigated. Acanthospermum hispidum, Pentanema indicum, Sphaeranthus indicus, and Tridax procumbens of family Asteraceae were collected from southern Rajasthan. Antimicrobial activity was carried out of dried leaves extract in methanol and ethyl acetate against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptomyces griseus bacteria and Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Fusarium oxysporium and Trichoderma reesei fungi. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of all four species were measured in the form of zone of inhibition.The highest zone of inhibi-tion was observed on E. coli in S. indicus i.e. 26.00±0.59 mm in ethyl acetate extract and lowest zone of inhibition was observed on B. subtilis in T. pro-cumbens i.e. 5.00±0.21 mm in methanol extract. While the highest zone of inhibition was observed on S. griseus in A. hispidium i.e. 30.00±0.50 mm in ethyl acetate extract and lowest zone of inhibition was observed on C. albicans in A. hispidum i.e. 10.00±0.49 mm in methanol extract. The results of the present study suggest the use of natural antimicrobial agent against studied microorganism.

Acanthospermum hispidum DC. is a South American weed with high invasive potential that infects more than 25 major crops. As a result of the research, the phytosanitary status of the species as absent in the territory of the Russian Federation was clarified. The types of regulated products were analyzed and possible ways of A. hispidum penetration into Russia were shown in article.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance. Development of resistance to antimalarial drugs by Plasmodium falciparum is still rampant, and there is an urgent need for novel drugs to either standalone or to partner artemisinin for treatment of malaria. Traditionally, plants have, over the years, been a good source of antimalarial drugs. Efficacy and safety of such plants need to be scientifically authenticated. Aims, Materials, and Method. This study investigated the in vitro antiplasmodial activity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity of aqueous extracts of Acanthospermum hispidum DC, Alstonia boone (De Wild), Cocos nucifera L, Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf, Morinda lucida Benth, Psidium guajava, Phyllanthus niruri L, and Senna siamea Lam. Results. Five out of the eight plants, A. boonei stem bark, S; siamea Lam root, M. lucida Benth leaves, P. niruri, and A. hispidum DC whole plants, showed varying degrees of antiplasmodial activity against the asexual stage of the parasite. The most active extract against chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (Dd2) P. falciparum strains is the A. hispidum extract which yielded a mean inhibitory concentration at 50% (IC50) of 3.66 µg/ml and 3.71 µg/ml for 3D7 and Dd2, respectively. This was followed by S. siamea Lam with 3.95 µg/ml for 3D7 and 4.47 µg/ml for Dd2. The IC50 values of the A. boonei extract against 3D7 and Dd2 P. falciparum parasites were 5.13 µg/ml and 3.62 µg/ml, respectively. For the M. lucida Benth extract, the least IC50 value was 6.46 µg/ml. All five extracts exhibited dose-dependent antiplasmodial activity. Assessment of the genotoxic effects the A. hispidum extract by the comet assay revealed substantial damage to P. falciparum DNA. Conclusion. This study demonstrates that the crude extract of A. hispidum DC, one of the plants used traditionally to treat malaria, inhibits the growth of P. falciparum in vitro and could be a potential source of antimalarial drug. The report has highlighted genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the selected plant extracts on human leukocytes as well.

Background The present work assesses the concentration of some heavy metal, plant species composition, and microbial diversity of spent crude oil-polluted soil from electric generator plant house, auto mechanic workshop, bakery, and auto spare part shops in four local governments areas (Egor, Ikpoba-Okha, Oredo, and Ovia North) in Edo State, Southern Nigeria. Results Hazard quotient (HQ) of heavy metals varied in all the spent crude oil-polluted soil evaluated in the study. The HQ of heavy metals from auto mechanic workshop had the highest values for Cr (2.19), Mn (0.0965), Zn (4.1108), Fe (9.32015), and Cd (0.0155). The most frequent bacterial and fungal species found in all 16 sites were Bacillus subtilis (93.75%) and Aspergillus niger (100.0%) respectively. Auto spare part shops in Oredo had a bacterial count of 1.0 × 105 CFU/g while the bacteria count around power generator plants in Egor had a bacteria count of 1.71 × 105 CFU/g. Some of the plant species identified around all the sites include Acanthospermum hispidum, Alternanthera repens, Axonopus compressus, Cyperus esculentus, Eleusine indica, Paspalum scrobiculatum, and Tridax procumbens. Conclusion Spent crude oil pollution of the soil led to high amounts of heavy metal in the soil. However, the presence of higher plants and variable diversity and richness of microorganisms found in the soil are likely contributing to the remediation of the polluted soil.

Spongospora subterranea f. sp. subterranea (Sss) is an obligate parasite that can only multiply within the living tissues of a host plant. Greenhouse experiments were carried out to determine the host status of Sss in some crops and weeds commonly found in southern African fields. These experiments used both qPCR and light microscope examination to study the development of Sss in the roots of weeds and crops grown in inoculated Merz solution. Zoosporangia and sporosori were observed microscopically in weed species Acanthospermum hispidum, Ageratum conyzoides, Bidens pilosa, Cleome monophylla, Datura stramonium, Euphorbia heterophylla, Oxalis latifolia, Physalis angulata, Setaria pumila and Tagetes minuta, whilst Ipomea plebia, Setaria verticillata and Galinsoga parviflora were non-hosts of Sss. Root galls were only observed on D. stramonium roots. The crops Allium cepa, Solanum lycopersicum, Zea mays, Avena sativa and Triticum aestivum were both zoosporangial and sporosorial hosts, whilst Phaseolus vulgaris and Brassica juncea were sporosorial hosts only. This study has added three new families to the hosts of Sss, namely Oxalidaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Cappardaceae. Two zoosporangial hosts were identified, namely Avena strigosa and Glycine max. These crops would be ideal to be included as trap crops in rotations with potatoes. The highest quantity of Sss DNA in weed species was recorded in the roots of P. angulata, N. physalodes and A. conyzoides, whilst in cultivated crops the highest quantity of Sss DNA was recorded in Brassica juncea followed by Avena strigosa. The study has shown the importance of weeds and some crops used in rotation with potatoes as alternative hosts of Sss and their potential to increase Sss inoculum level in the soil.

Acanthospermum hispidum is a widely plant used in African traditional medicine. This study aims to assess cardiotoxicity and sub-chronic (28-days) oral toxicity of hydroalcohol leaf extract of A. hispidum. The sub-chronic toxicity was evaluated after administering daily oral doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg body wt., for 28 days to the rats, biochemical and haematological assessments as well as body and relative organ weights of the rats were carried out. The results of the study have shown that blood sodium was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in the group treated with 500 and 1000 mg/kg of A. hispidum extract and the blood platelet was significantly high. The weekly body and organ weight of the rats showed no significant differences between the control and the rats treated with the extract except for the testis where there was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in rats that received 1000 mg/kg, i.e., 1.16±0.2 g against 0.78±0.22 g for the control. A discreet seminiferous tubular atrophy and fibrosis of the tube wall were observed at this dose. The hydroalcoholic extract of A. hispidum at 0.1; 1; 10 and 100 mg/ml on toad heart and isolated atria of guinea pigs have caused a significant increase in cardiac amplitude (positive inotropic) and a significant decrease (p < 0.0001) in frequency (negative chronotropism). Our results suggest that the hydroalcohol extract of A. hispidum is relatively toxic to the testis and caution must be taken at high doses especially for the heart.

Aims: Liver fibrosis is a chronic disease of the liver. This disease is a stage of passage to liver cancer. The objective of this work was to evaluate the ability of the ethanolic extract of Acanthospermum hispidum to block the progression of hepatic fibrosis induced in rats using diethylenitrosamine (DEN). Study Design: Study of the antifibrotic potential of extracts of Acanthospermum hispidum. Place and Duration of Study: In vivo tests were performed from September 2018 to January 2019. The animal model tests were carried out in the pet shop of the Institute for Health Sciences Research (IRSS) of Burkina Faso and in the Cytogenetics Laboratory (FSS/ISBA) of the Republic of Benin. Methodology: The evaluation of the antifibrotic activity consisted in treating in wistar rats a liver fibrosis induced with the DEN which is a chemical agent whose effect on the liver has already been confirmed. As a result of the treatment, all animals were removed from the liver and blood. The livers were used for macroscopic and microscopic observations. Blood has been used for the evaluation of biochemical parameters in relation to fibrosis. Results: The analysis of the results of the biochemical parameters in relation to the fibrosis showed that the ethanolic extract of Acanthospermum hispidum at the dose of 250 mg / kg made it possible to obtain an improvement of these parameters compared to the other batches of animals. These results have been confirmed by those of the anatomo-pathological studies. Conclusion: The results of biochemical and histological analyzes revealed a capacity of Acanthospermum hispidum extracts to block the evolution of hepatic fibrosis in the rat. These results confirm the hepatoprotective potential of this medicinal plant used in traditional medicine in Burkina Faso.

Acanthospermum hispidum Dc. et Ximenia americana L. sont largement utilisees en Afrique subsaharienne pour le traitement traditionnel de plusieurs pathologies, dont l’hypertension arterielle. L'objectif du present travail est de determiner l’activite antioxydante des extraits bruts de ces plantes, ainsi que les molecules qui leurs conferent ces proprietes. A cet effet, les parties aeriennes d’A. hispidum recoltees a Niamey et l’ecorce de tronc de X. americana recoltee a Gaya ont ete extraites avec des solvants de polarite croissante, respectivement l’hexane, l’acetate d’ethyle, l’ethanol et le methanol. Il s’en est suivi le screening phytochimique, le dosage des polyphenols, des flavonoides et la determination des activites antioxydantes. Il est ressorti des resultats du screening phytochimique par des reactions en tubes, la presence des coumarines, des tanins, des flavonoides, des sterols et triterpenes, des saponosides, des oses et holosides dans les deux plantes. Le dosage des polyphenols totaux par la methode du Folin- Ciocalteu a montre que les teneurs en polyphenols totaux varient de 0,627 a 1,583 mg d’equivalent acide gallique (EqAG) pour A. hispidum et de 0,036 a 1,645 mg d’EqAG pour X. americana. Le dosage des flavonoides avec AlCl3 a montre que tous les extraits contiennent des flavonoides mais que c’est particulierement les extraits AcOEt d’ A. hispidum et EtOH de X. americana quisont les plus riches avec des taux respectifs de 0,089 mg et 0,069 mg EqQ. L’extrait EtOH de l’ecorce de tronc de X. americana a montre la plus grande capacite antiradicalaire (129,56%). Cette activite elevee pourrait etre due aux teneurs elevees en flavonoides et en polyphenols totaux. L’effet de ces molecules sur les radicaux libres semblerait etre a l’origine de l’activite antihypertentive des plantes etudiees. Acanthospermum hispidum Dc. and Ximenia americana L. are widely used in sub-Saharan Africa in the traditional treatment of several pathologies, including hypertension. The main objective of this work is to determine the antioxidant activity of the crude extracts of these plants, as well as the molecules that confer these properties. For this purpose, the aerial parts of A. hispidum from Niamey and the stem bark of X. americana from Gaya were extracted with solvents of increasing polarity, respectively hexane, ethyl acetate, ethanol and methanol. Phytochemical screening, dosage of polyphenols and flavonoids, and the determination of the antioxidant activities of these extracts followed. The results of the preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of coumarins, tannins, flavonoids, sterols and triterpens, saponosides, oses and holosides in both plants. The Folin ciocalteu method showed that the total polyphenol contents of these same extracts ranged from 0.627 to 1.583 mg of gallic acid equivalent (AG/Eq) for A. hispidum and from 0.036 to 1.645 AG/Eq for X. americana. Total flavonoid assay with AlCl3 showed that all extracts contain flavonoids but that it is particularly the extracts ethyl acetate (AcOEt) of A. hispidum and ethanol (EtOH) extract of X. americana that are the richest with respective levels of 0.089 mg and 0.069 mg EqQ. The EtOH extract of the trunk bark of X. americana showed the greatest antiradical capacity (129.56%). This high activity could be due to the high content of flavanoids and total polyphenols. The effect of these molecules on free radicals seems to be at the origin of the antihypertensive activity of the plants studied.

Although Acanthospermum hispidum has long been considered as a competitive invasive weed of agricultural plantations, it has recently become a sought after raw material to manufacture syrups in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis and fever. In the present study, the bioactive components of Acanthospermum hispidium entire plant have been accessed via GC-MS analysis. Six compounds from the hexane extract of the whole plant were identified. The most prevalent are glycerine (100.00%), 1-benzoypiperidine (40.26%) and erythritol (15.79%). Phytochemical screening investigation carried out using standard procedures showed the presence of Alkaloids, Steriods, Saponnins, Tannin, Flavonoids, Phenol, Terpenoids.

Background: Acanthospermum hispidum DC is a medicinal plant present in America, Africa, Australia, India, Hawaii, and Brazil. In Brazil, the species is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal, respiratory disorders and has expectorant action. In the literature, there are studies on the chemical composition of the species, with reports of the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, hydrolyzable tannins, terpenes, and steroids. In addition, several studies have reported in vitro and in vivo studies that prove the biological properties of extracts and compounds isolated from different organs of the A. hispidum plant, including hepatoprotectors, antioxidants, antimicrobials and antiparasitic. Objective: The objective of this review is to update the knowledge about the phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicity aspects of A. hispidum, and to contribute to the recognition of the species and direct new studies. Methods: An extensive bibliographic search was conducted in different scientific databases. Results: The presence of different chemical constituents in A. hispidum has been identified, among these constituents are flavonoids, tannins, terpenes, and steroids. Additionally, antimicrobial and antiparasitic activities were mainly attributed to the species, and other activities not previously described were presented, such as anticholinesterase, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and hypoglycemic, all based on results of in vitro and in vivo studies. Finally, no reports of toxic effects were found in the in vitro and in vivo tests. After analyzing the articles, it was evidenced that other experiments with different models using animals are essential to evaluate the possible mechanisms of action of the extracts and compounds isolated of A. hispidum. Conclusion: Therefore, this review may contribute to the recognition of the importance of A. hispidum and its potential as a medicinal plant and may also guide the conduct of future research regarding the constituents, biological activities, and toxicity of the species.

In order to understand the action mechanism of fluazifop-P-butyl (FB) in bristly starbur (Acanthospermum hispidum D.C.), a susceptible plant, the role of active oxygen species (ROS) in herbicide-induced cell death in shoots was investigated. FB-induced phytotoxicity was not reduced by the antioxidants, 1,4-diazabicyclooctane (dabaco), sodium azide, l -tryptophan, d -tryptophan, hydroquinone and dimethyl pyridine N-oxide (DMPO). The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), in bristly starbur seedlings were significantly increased by FB at 12 HAT and 24 HAT, while ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities increased only at 12 HAT. The contents of H2O2 in FB-treated bristly starbur seedlings were significantly higher to that of control between 8 and 24 HAT. According to the analysis of potassium iodide – starch or 3,3-diaminobenzidine, the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide was observed in the apical growing point, stem, petiole and veins of FB-treated bristly starbur seedlings at 24 HAT. The cell viability of bristly starbur seedlings treated by 10 μM FB decreased at 18 HAT. These results suggested that FB-induced cell death in bristly starbur shoots may be caused by ROS (O2– and H2O2) generation and lipid peroxidation.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized by an implicitly environmentally gracious route using Acanthospermum hispidum aqueous leaves extract at room temperature reported. This approach is facile, swift, cost-effective and stable for a long time, reproducible at room temperature and in an eco-friendly manner to obtain a self-assembly of AgNPs. These fabricated AgNPs were investigated by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope with selected area electron diffraction, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy, particle size, zeta potential, photoluminescence with fluorescence life-time spectroscopy and surface area with porosity studies of synthesized nanoparticles were analyzed by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller and Barrett–Joyner–Halenda curve. Besides, these AgNPs displayed antibacterial, antifungal antimycobacterial and antimalarial activity against some bacterial pathogens. From the outcomes obtained it is suggested that AgNPs could be used effectively in future nanobiotechnology and medical concerns.

Although Acanthospermum hispidum is used in Brazilian folk medicine as an antihypertensive, no study evaluated its effects on a renovascular hypertension and ovariectomy model. So, this study investigated the mechanisms involved in the antihypertensive effects of an ethanol-soluble fraction obtained from A. hispidum (ESAH) using two-kidney-one-clip hypertension in ovariectomized rats (2K1C plus OVT). ESAH was orally administered at doses of 30, 100, and 300 mg/kg, daily, for 28 days, after 5 weeks of surgery. Enalapril (15 mg/kg) and hydrochlorothiazide (25 mg/kg) were used as standard drugs. Diuretic activity was evaluated on days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28. Systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure and heart rate were recorded. Serum creatinine, urea, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, nitrosamine, nitrite, aldosterone, vasopressin levels, and ACE activity were measured. The vascular reactivity and the role of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins (PG) in the vasodilator response of ESAH on the mesenteric vascular bed (MVB) were also investigated. ESAH treatment induced an important saluretic and antihypertensive response, therefore recovering vascular reactivity in 2K1C plus OVT-rats. This effect was associated with a reduction of oxidative and nitrosative stress with a possible increase in the NO bioavailability. Additionally, a NO and PG-dependent vasodilator effect was observed on the MEV.

Toxicities of leaf powders and extracts of Acanthus montanus, Acanthospermum hispidum, Alchornea laxiflora and Argyreia nervosa against maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais) were evaluated. Powders were tested at dose 3.0g/20g while extracts were tested at concentration 3%/20g of maize grains. Mortality, oviposition, and adult emergence rates as well as weight loss, seeds damage and weevil perforation index (WPI) were evaluated. Phytochemical constituents of the experimental plants were also carried out. The results showed that Acanthus montanus powder was the most potent with 65% adult mortality after 24 h of treatment. This is followed by Argyreia nervosa powder that evoked 52.5% weevil mortality. The least toxic to S. zeamais was Acanthospermum hispidum powder with 32.5% adult mortality. Extracts were more toxic than the powders of the tested plants. Acanthus montanus extract was the most toxic since it promoted 80% adult mortality after 24 h of treatment. Acanthus montanus, Alchornea laxiflora and Argyreia nervosa leaf powders and extracts completely prevented oviposition by adult insect, adult emergence, weight loss and seeds damaged. The phytochemicals present in Acanthus montanus were alkaloids (3.67 mg/g), saponin (3.33 mg/g), tannin (3.00 mg/g) and flavonoid (2.67 mg/g) contents. Acanthospermum hispidum had the least alkaloid (2.67 mg/g), saponin (1.67 mg/g), tannin (1.33 mg/g) and flavonoid (1.00 mg/g) contents. Acanthus montanus, Argyreia nervosa, Alchornea laxiflora and Acanthospermum hispidum were efficacious against S. zeamais instead of synthetic chemical insecticides that have environmental health hazards and they can be used in integrated pest management by farmers and foods merchants.

Submitted by Alison Souza (alisonsouza@ufgd.edu.br) on 2019-03-28T21:43:40Z No. of bitstreams: 1 CleideAdrianeSignorTirloni.pdf: 6603867 bytes, checksum: 633df5bb39c9e666378db07f5f0c79b7 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2019-03-28T21:43:40Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 CleideAdrianeSignorTirloni.pdf: 6603867 bytes, checksum: 633df5bb39c9e666378db07f5f0c79b7 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2018-05-11 As doenças cardiovasculares estão entre as principais causas de mortes no mundo e as plantas medicinais podem ser alternativas viáveis para o desenvolvimento de novos medicamentos para o controle destas doenças. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar as espécies medicinais Acanthospermum hispidum, Luehea divaricata e Talisia esculenta, utilizadas popularmente na região do Pantanal sul-mato-grossense, para o tratamento de doenças que afetam o sistema cardiovascular e renal. Primeiramente realizamos uma avaliação morfológica e histoquímica para identificar adequadamente as três espécies em estudo. Após devidamente identificadas, foram coletadas as partes aéreas da A. hispidum e as folhas da L. divaricata e T. esculenta. Infusões (100 g/1000 mL água filtrada) foram preparadas com as três espécies, os infusos foram filtrados e tratados com etanol, o sobrenadante etanólico (ES) foi utilizado. Os extratos purificados da A. hispidum (ESAH), L. divaricata (ESLD) e T. esculenta (ESTE) foram analisados fitoquímicamente. Todos os extratos apresentaram compostos fenólicos. Estudos de toxicidade foram conduzidos com ratos da linhagem Wistar (machos e fêmeas). Diferentes grupos de animais receberam 5, 50, 300 e 2000 mg/kg (dose única, v.o.) dos extratos ou água filtrada (5 mL/100g). No 15° dia o experimento foi encerrado e amostras de sangue e tecidos foram obtidas para análises bioquímicas e histológicas. Nenhum extrato promoveu sinais de toxicidade, então estudos farmacológicos foram conduzidos. Primeiramente verificamos os possíveis efeitos diuréticos em diferentes grupos de ratos após tratamento com diferentes doses dos três extratos (30, 100 e 300 mg/kg, v.o.). Após 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 e 24 horas (tratamento agudo) ou diariamente por sete dias (tratamento prolongado) o volume urinário foi determinado. Adicionalmente, nas amostras de urina resultante, o sódio, o potássio, o cloreto, o pH e a densidade foram mensurados. Baseado nos resultados da diurese aguda, somente o ESLD foi avaliado por sete dias. Em um segundo momento, analisamos os efeitos dos três extratos sobre a pressão arterial siastólica (PAS), pressão arterial diastólica (PAD), pressão arterial média (PAM) e taxa cardíaca (batimentos por minuto- BPM) em ratos normotensos. Para isto, os animais foram anestesiados com cetamina/xilasina (100/20 mg/kg, i.m.) e um cateter de polietileno foi introduzido na artéria carotídea direita. Em seguida, realizamos a medida da pressão arterial (PA). Os extratos, nas mesmas doses da diurese, foram administrados diretamente no duodeno dos animais. Hidroclorotiazida (HCTZ 25 mg/kg) e água filtrada (5 mL/kg) foram utilizados como controle. O ESAH não apresentou atividade diurética, entretanto apresentou atividade hipotensora (reduziu a PAS e a PAM na dose de 30 mg/kg). A partir destes dados, investigamos o papel do óxido nítrico (ON), das prostaciclinas (PGI2) e o envolvimento dos canais de potássio (K + ) nesta atividade. Diferentes grupos de ratos foram infundidos continuamente pela veia femoral com L-NAME (7 mg/kg/min., inibidor não seletivo da óxido nítrico sintase), indometacina (3 mg/kg/min., inibidor não seletivo das cicloxigenases), azul de metileno (150 nmol/kg/min., inibidor da glanilato ciclase) ou TEA (400 µmol/kg/min., inibidor não seletivo dos canais de K + sensíveis ao Ca + ). Em seguida, administrou-se o ESAH (30 mg/kg, i.d.). Constatamos que a via do ON estava envolvida na atividade hipotensora do ESAH, como também os canais de K + sensíveis ao Ca + . O ESLD apresentou atividade diurética, salurética e hipotensora nos tratamentos agudos e as duas primeiras atividades se mantiveram por sete dias. A partir destes resultados realizamos o fracionamento deste extrato com solventes de diferentes polaridades. O ESLD (15 g.) foi solubilizado em água (500 mL) e fracionado sequencialmente com clorofórmio, butanol e acetato de etila gerando as frações ChloroFr, ButFr e AceFr, respectivamente. O resíduo aquoso gerou a fração aquosa (AqueFr). Estas frações foram avaliadas quanto aos efeitos diuréticos e hipotensores agudos. As frações AceFr (6 mg/kg), AqueFr (128 mg/kg) e ButFr (65 mg/kg) apresentaram atividade diurética após 24 horas, as duas últimas frações foram também hipotensoras, sendo que a ButFr apresentou também atividade salurética. Então, investigamos o envolvimento do ON e das PGI2 na atividade diurética da ButFr. Diferentes grupos de animais receberam, uma hora antes, L-NAME (60 mg/kg, v.o.) e indometacina (5 mg/kg, v.o). Em seguida, foram tratados com ButFr (65 mg/kg, v.o.). O volume urinário foi mensurado após 8 e 24 horas. As duas vias estavam envolvidas com a atividade diurética desta fração. Avaliamos também se o efeito diurético, salurético e hipotensor da ButFr (65 mg/kg, v.o) se manteriam após tratamento prolongado (diariamente por sete dias), o que também se confirmou. Apoiados nestes dados, analisamos esta fração em órgãos isolados. Para isto, ratos foram anestesiados e seus leitos mesentéricos e seus rins foram retirados e perfundidos com solução adequada, em seguida a PA destes órgãos foi analisada. Após a estabilização da PA, os órgãos receberam diferentes concentrações da ButFr. As concentrações mais efetivas da ButFr (0,01; 0,03 e 0,1 mg) foram analisadas quanto ao envolvimento do ON e das PGI2 nas atividades diuréticas e hipotensoras apresentadas. Retiramos novos órgãos e perfundimos com os inibidores L-NAME (100 µmol) e indometacina (1 µmol), em seguida administramos as diferentes concentrações da ButFr. Observamos que as duas vias estavam envolvidas. E por fim, como a AqueFr (128 mg/kg) apresentou uma atividade hipotensora nos estudos anteriores, traçamos um perfil fitoquímico da mesma e identificamos a isovitexina como seu principal metabólito. Analisamos o efeito da AqueFr e a isovitexina em leitos mesentéricos isolados de ratos e os mecanismos envolvidos na hipotensão. Pesquisamos o envolvimento do ON, PGI2 e dos canais de K + (sensíveis ao Ca + , à voltagem e ao ATP). Leitos mesentéricos foram isolados, perfundidos com os inibidores L-NAME (100 µmol), indometacina (1 µmol), KCl (40 mM), TEA (1 mM), 4-aminopiridina (10 µmol- inibidor dos canais de K + sensíveis à voltagem) e glibenclamida (10 µmol- inibidor seletivo dos canais de K + sensíveis ao ATP- Kir6.1) e administramos diferentes concentrações da AqueFr (0,01- 0,1 mg) e da isovitexina (100- 1000 nmol). Ambos os tratamentos apresentaram atividade hipotensora pela via do ON e por estimular os canais de K + sensíveis ao Ca + e ao ATP. E finalmente, o ESTE não apresentou atividade diurética significativa e nem atividade hipotensora. Avaliamos se ESTE apresentava atividade antioxidante in vitro através de sua capacidade de eliminar os radicais livres DPPH e de impedir a hemólise oxidativa ocasionada em eritrócitos humanos pelo 2,2-Azobis (2-amidinopropano) dihydrochloride (AAPH). Apesar de o ESTE não apresentar atividade diurética e hipotensora, demonstrou ter uma interessante atividade antioxidante. Desta forma, concluímos que a A. hispidum não foi diurética, porém apresentou atividade hipotensora, a L. divaricata apresentou atividade diurética, salurética e hipotensora e a T. esculenta não foi diurética nem hipotensora, entretanto apresentou atividade antioxidante. Os efeitos diuréticos e saluréticos da L. divaricata se mantiveram por sete dias. Suas frações AqueFr e ButFr também apresentaram atividade diurética e hipotensora, seus mecanismos de ação foram elucidados em órgãos isolados sendo que atuam pela via do ON e das PGI2, agindo em diferentes canais de K + . A L. divaricata apresentou melhores efeitos farmacológicos do que as outras duas espécies. Seus efeitos diuréticos e hipotensores corroboram o uso popular no Pantanal sul-mato-grossense podendo ser uma espécie potencial para o desenvolvimento de novos fármacos. Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Medicinal plants can be viable alternatives to the development of new drugs to control these diseases. The aim of this work was to investigate Acanthospermum hispidum, Luehea divaricata and Talisia esculenta, which are medicinal plants popularly used for the treatment of diseases affecting the cardiovascular and renal systems in the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. First, we performed a morphological and histochemical evaluation to adequately identify the three species under study. After being properly identified, the aerial parts of A. hispidum and leaves of L. divaricata and T. esculenta were collected. By the infusion method (100 g/1000 mL filtered water) we prepared the crude extract with the aerial parts of A. hispidum and with the leaves of the L. divaricata e T. esculenta. Ethanol (PA) was used to purify the extract and the ethanolic supernatant (ES) was used for the tests. The phytochemical profile of the ESAH, ESLD e ESTE was revealed and all extracts presented phenolic compounds. Male and female Wistar rats were used for the pharmacological and acute toxicity studies. By the acute toxicity test, different groups of male and female rats received 5, 50, 300 e 2000 mg/kg (single dose, v.o.) of the three extracts or filtered water (5 mL/100g). On the 15 th day, blood and tissue samples were obtained for biochemical and histological analyzes. Extracts promoted no signs of toxicity and, therefore, pharmacological studies were conducted. First, we analyzed the diuretic effects in different groups of rats (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg, v.o.). After 4-24 hours (acute treatment) or daily for seven days (prolonged treatment) the urinary volume was determined. Furthermore, sodium, potassium, chloride, pH and density were measured in urine samples. In a second moment, we analyzed the effects of the three extracts on systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) in normotensive rats. For this, animals were anesthetized with ketamine/xilasin (100/20 mg/kg, i.m.). A polyethylene catheter was introduced into the right carotid artery, and blood pressure (BP) was then measured. The extracts, at the same doses of diuresis, were administered directly into the duodenum of animals. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ 25 mg/kg) and filtered water (5 mL/kg) were used as controls. ESAH did not induce diuresis, however, it presented hypotensive effect (reduced SBP and MAP at the dose of 30 mg/kg). Based on these results, we analyzed the role of nitric oxide (NO), prostacyclin (PGI2) and K-channel involvement in this activity. Different groups of rats were continuously infused through the femoral vein with L-NAME (7 mg/kg/min, NO synthase inhibitor), indomethacin (3 mg/kg/min., a non-selective cyclooxygenase inhibitor), methylene blue (150 nmol/kg/min, glanilate cyclase inhibitor) or TEA (400 μmol/kg/min., a non-selective calcium-sensitive K + channel bloker (KCa)). ESAH (30 mg/kg, i.d.) was then administered. We observed that the ON pathway was involved in the ESAH hypotensive activity, as well as the Ca + sensitive K + channels. ESTE showed no significant diuretic or hypotensive activity. We then evaluated if ESTE presented in vitro antioxidant activity through its ability to eliminate free radical DPPH and to prevent oxidative hemolysis caused in human erythrocytes by AAPH. Although ESTE presented no diuretic and hypotensive activity, it has been shown to have an interesting antioxidant activity. Finally, based on the initial results where ESLD presented diuretic, saluretic and hypotensive effects, and the first two activities were maintained for seven days, we performed the fractionation of this extract with solvents with different polarities. The ESLD (15 g.) was solubilized in water (500 mL) and sequentially fractionated with chloroform, butanol and ethyl acetate resulting in fractions ChloroFr, ButFr and AceFr, respectively. The aqueous residue generated the aqueous fraction (AqueFr). These fractions were evaluated for diuretic and acute hypotensive effects. The fractions Acefr (6 mg/kg), AqueFr (128 mg/kg) and ButFr (65 mg/kg) presented diuretic activity after 24 hours. The last two fractions were also hypotensive, besides the saluretic activity presented by ButFr. From this result, we investigated the involvement of ON and PGI2 in the diuretic activity of ButFr. Different groups of animals received, one hour earlier, L-NAME (60 mg/kg, v.o.) and indomethacin (5 mg/kg, v.o). They were then treated with ButFr (65 mg/kg, v.o.). Urinary volume was measured after 8 and 24 hours. The two pathways were involved with the diuretic activity of this fraction. We also investigated whether the diuretic, saluric and hypotensive effect (ButFr (65 mg/kg)) would be maintained after prolonged treatment (daily for seven days), which was also confirmed. Based on these data, we decided to analyze this fraction in isolated organs. For this, rats were anesthetized and their mesenteric beds and kidneys were removed and perfused with adequate solution and arterial pressure was measure. After stabilization of the arterial pressure, the organs received different concentrations of ButFr. The most effective concentrations of ButFr (0.01-0.1 mg) were analyzed for ON and PGI2 involvement in the diuretic and hypotensive activities presented. We perfused new beds and kidneys with the inhibitors L-NAME (100 μmol) and indomethacin (1 μmol) and then administered different concentrations of ButFr. Two paths were involved. Finally, since AqueFr (128 mg/kg) presented a hypotensive activity in previous studies, we elucidated its phytochemical profile and identified isovitexin as its main metabolite. We investigated AqueFr and isovitexin in mesenteric beds isolated from rats and the mechanisms involved in hypotension. We verified the involvement of ON, PGI2 and K + channels (sensitive to Ca + , voltage and ATP). We isolated the beds, perfused with the inhibitors L-NAME (100 μmol), indomethacin (1 μmol), KCl (40 mM, K + ), TEA (1 mM), 4-aminopyridine (10 μmol- a voltage-dependent (KV) K + channels bloker) and glibenclamide (10 μmol- a seletive Kir6.1 ATP-sensive K + channels bloker) and administered different concentrations of AqueFr (0.01-0.1 mg) and isovitexin (100-1000 nmol). Both treatments presented hypotensive activity via NO and stimulated K + channels sensitive to Ca + and ATP. Thus, we conclude that although A. hispidum was not diuretic, it had hypotensive activity, T. esculenta was neither diuretic nor hypotensive but presented antioxidant activity and L. divaricata presented diuretic, salinetic and hypotensive activity. The diuretic and saluretic effects of L. divaricata were maintained for seven days. Its fractions (AqueFr and ButFr) presented diuretic and hypotensive activity and the mechanisms of action were elucidated in isolated organs, acting through the ON and PGI2 pathways acting on different K + -channels. L. divaricata presented better pharmacological effects than the other two species and its diuretic and hypotensive effects corroborate the popular use in Pantanal. Therefore, it can be considered a potential species for the development of new drugs.

Background: Burkina Faso is classified among the countries with a high prevalence (˃12%) of hepatitis. Hepatic diseases, such as cirrhosis—related to alcoholism—and hepatitis B and C, are the cause of the increase in cases of liver cancer. They promote the development of cancer by decreasing the natural cell death, causing problems with DNA repair, or by increasing the production of free radical toxins to the cell. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were nearly 639,000 deaths from liver cancer worldwide in 2014, hence the need to search for natural hepatoprotective molecules. Objective: To evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of Acanthospermum hispidum extracts on rats and the antioxidant capacity of extracts in vitro and in vivo, and to perform phytochemistry. Methods: The ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the whole Acanthospermum hispidum plant were used to evaluate hepatoprotection. The hepatotoxin used in our case was diethylenitrosamine. The animals were divided into groups of six. The sera of the treated animals were used for the determination of transaminases, and the liver homogenates were used for the determination of antioxidant. The total phenol and flavonoid contents, and the antioxidant properties of the extracts, were evaluated in vitro. Results: The results of the in vitro antioxidant tests showed good antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract, using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) test (0.08 ± 0.0018 μg/mL) and 2,2′-azinobis (3-ethylbenzolin-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) (246.05 ± 1.55 mmol TE/g). The in vivo tests showed, through the evaluation of the antioxidant in vivo and the biochemical parameters, that the ethanolic extract with the highest phenolic content had a good hepatoprotective capacity. Conclusions: The antioxidant activity of Acanthopermum hispidum extracts would justify the observed hepatoprotective activity. These results confirmed that the plant is used in the treatment of liver diseases in traditional medicine in Burkina Faso.

The present research was undertaken to explor the possibility of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) association with Asteraceae plants in the arid lands of Saudi Arabia (Al-Ghat, Buraydah, Thumamah and Huraymila). AM fungal colonization in the roots, spore numbers in the rhizosphere soil, fungal species diversity and correlation between AM properties and soil properties were determined. The highest colonization was in Conyza bonariensis (65%) from Al-Ghat, Anthemis cotula (52%) from Buraydah and C. bonariensis (53%) from Thumamah. The lowest was in Vernonia schimperi (41%) from Al-Ghat, Pulicaria undulata (25%) from Buraydah, Acanthospermum hispidum (34%) from Thumamah, Asteriscus graveolens (22%) and V. schimperi (22%) from Huraymila. Vesicular and arbuscular colonization were also presented in all plant species examined. The number of spores were 112–207 in Al-Ghat, 113–133 in Buraydah, 87–148 in Thumamah and 107–158 in Huraymila. Funneliformis mosseae, Glomus etunicatum, G. fasciculatum and G. aggregatum were identified. Relative frequency of AM fungal species varied widely and was irrespective of location and plant species. Diversity index varied with the rhizosphere soils of different plant species at various locations. Soil properties varied with locations and no distinct correlations were observed among the soil properties, root colonization and the number of spores. The results of the present study specified the association of AM fungi in different plants of Asteraceae and its significance in the ecological functioning of annual plants in the punitive environments of the rangelands in Saudi Arabia.

The present study was conducted to identify the alternate hosts of new leaf curl virus disease of sunflower. In the present study several crops and weed hosts were cross inoculated with leaf curl virus of sunflower under laboratory through insect vector whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), further all inoculated samples were retested (3-4 weeks after inoculation) by molecular based Polymerse chain reaction diagnosis for the presence of virus. The results revealed that the causal virus of the disease was successfully transmitted from sunflower to sunflower (Helianthus annuus), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L) and weed hosts such as Acanthospermum hispidum, Amaranthus viridis and Parthenium hysterophorus in a short incubation period (2-3 weeks after inoculation), while on other hosts Chilli (Capsicum annuum L) and Datura stramonium, infection occurs in delayed incubation period. Further molecular analysis thorough polymerase chain reaction (PCR) diagnostic technique using virus specific primers also confirmed the presence of coat protein (CP) of leaf curl begomovirus invirus inoculated hosts viz., chilli, sunflower, tomato, and tobacco and weed hosts such as Acanthospermum hispidum, Amaranthus viridis, Datura stramonium and Parthenium hysterophorus. Thus, findings substantiate that the above hosts are major sources of the virus inoculum and served as potential alternate hosts of the disease during the off season.

Article history: In this study, we have tested alcoholic extracts (60%) from four Beninese plants: Ocimum gratissimum L., Acanthospermum hispidum DC, Caesalpinia bonduc (L) Roxb and Calotropis procera W. T. Aiton. They are used by the healers to prevent opportunistic diseases associated to HIV"AIDS; on six strains such as: Escherichia coli O 157H7, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 which resist to methicillin (MRSA), Salmonella typhi , Klebsiella pneumonia , Candida albicans ATCC 10231, and Mycobacterium bovis BCG 040812 which cause microbial infections associated with HIV" AIDS. The results show that all the extracts are bacteriostatic and fungistatic but only the hydro"ethanolic extracts o f Acanthospermum hispidum (HE 2) and of Caesalpinia bonduc (HE 3) presented antibiotic power (respectively ap = 2 and ap = 4) on Candida albicans ATCC 10231. The Mycobacterium bovis BCG shown resistance to tested extracts (CMI > 250 µg/mL). The two fungicidal extracts HE 2 and HE 3 did not show harmful effects on the cells WI-38 with an IC 50 > 100 µg/mL for HE 2 and IC 50 = 50 µg/mL for HE 3. The successive bio"guided purifications of extrac ts HE 2 and HE 3 permitted isolation of three antibacterial compounds: Flavanone (M 1); stigmasterol (M 2); and quercetin (M 3). The three i solated compounds possess antibiotic power (ap 3 ±1) on tested strains and are not toxic on shrimp larvae (LC 50 : 0.30 ± 0.17 mg/mL).

Laboratory and greenhouse studies were conducted to determine the absorption, translocation, dose response, efficacy, and effects on biomass of the herbicide diclosulam on bristly starbur (Acanthospermum hispidum DC.) In laboratory experiments, 14C-diclosulam absorption and translocation was evaluated in bristly starbur. Greenhouse studies determined bristly starbur growth response to postemergence applied diclosulam at 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, 3.3, and 6.5 g ai/ha. Bristly starbur seed were collected from two Georgia locations, hand cleaned, and grown in the greenhouse. Bristly starbur plants were then foliar treated with diclosulam when plants were in the 4 to 6 leaf stage of growth. 14C-diclosulam was applied to a single non-treated, most fully developed bristly starbur adaxial leaf, after the rest of the plant was foliar treated with 0.8 g ai/ha of diclosulam. At 24 and 48 hours after treatment, 14C-diclosulam was translocated acropetally in bristly starbur to the plant apex, with little to no movement to the lower plant parts including lower leaves, stem and roots. For the dose response studies, bristly starbur growth reduction dry weight (GR50) and efficacy (I50) for diclosulam ranged from 0.95 to 0.92 g ai/ha, respectively. Based on these data, bristly starbur susceptibility to diclosulam was due to its translocation to apical growing points within 24 to 48 hours where acetoacetate synthase (ALS) inhibition occurred resulting in eventual plant death. While bristly starbur is controlled with diclosulam rates below the standard use rate of other weeds, the standard field rates in combination with other herbicide mechanisms of action will continue to be recommended to peanut growers to reduce the potential for bristly starbur ALS resistance selection.

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) synthesized by an implicitly environmentally benign process using Acanthospermum hispidum L. aqueous plant extract as an effective bio-oxidizing/bio-reducing agent. Phytochemical screening of the fresh aqueous leaves extract showed the presence of coumarins, tannins, saponins, phenols, flavonoids, sterols and volatile oils. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the possible biomolecules responsible for the formation of copper oxide nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction patterns revealed the monoclinic phase of the synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles. The average size, shape and the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles were determined by field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analysis. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of elements in the synthesized nanoparticles. Photoluminescence and fluorescence life-time spectroscopy showed luminescence properties of copper oxide nanoparticles. Furthermore, Copper oxide nanoparticles evinced highly robust antimicrobial, antimalarial and antimycobacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Plasmodium falciparum and Micobacterium tuberculosis H37RV. The current study demonstrates convenient utilization of Acanthospermum hispidum L. extract as a fuel for the efficient synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles through a green synthesis method to obtain significantly biologically active material.

Acanthospermum hispidum D.C. was particularly susceptible to fluazifop-P-butyl, an aryloxyphenoxypropionate herbicide, and the primary action site for the herbicide was shoot apical meristem, which is also the main site of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) biosynthesis and action. Membrane lipid peroxidation caused by increasing levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was considered as an action mechanism of fluazifop-P-butyl in A. hispidum. To further clarify the ROS inducing mechanism of fluazifop-P-butyl in the plant, the interactions between fluazifop-P-butyl and auxin compounds IAA or 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) were studied. Haloxyfop-P-methyl, an AOPP herbicide which is inactive on A. hispidum, was used for comparison. The results showed that the growth inhibition and malondialdehyde or H2O2 increases induced by fluazifop-P-butyl on A. hispidum were reversed by IAA or 2,4-D. The IAA content was decreased but the contents of three IAA oxidation metabolites, indole-3-methanol, indole-3-aldehyde and indole-3-carboxylic acid were increased by fluazifop-P-butyl in A. hispidum, but not by haloxyfop-P-methyl. The growth of A. hispidum was not inhibited by three IAA oxidative compounds. Moreover, the activities of IAA oxidase and peroxidase were increased by fluazifop-P-butyl but not by haloxyfop-P-methyl, and the increase was reversed by IAA or 2,4-D. We suggest that there is an antagonistic effect between fluazifop-P-butyl and IAA or 2,4-D, and the IAA oxidation may be involved in the action mechanism of fluazifop-P-butyl in A. hispidum.

This study was carried out to evaluate the larvicidal and ovicidal activities of leaves extract from Aspilia africana (Pers.) C. D. Adams, Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray, Vernonia amygdalina Del., Tridax procumbens Linn., Vernonia cinerea (Linn.) Less, Struchium sparganophora (Linn.) Kuntze, Ageratum conyzoides Linn., Melanthera scandens (Schum et Thonn.) Roberty, Chromolaena odorata (Linn.) Hassk, Emilia coccinea (Sims) G.Don, Synedrella nodiflora (L.) Gaertn, Launaea taraxacifolia (Willd.) Amin ex C, Jeffrey, Senecio biafrae Oliv. & Hiern, Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S.Moore, Eclipta alba (Linn.) Hassk, Spilanthes filicaulis (Schumach. & Thonn.) C.D.Adams, Acanthospermum hispidum D.C. and Bidens pilosa Linn. all inAsteraceae family. The extracts were all tested against Aedes aegypti Linn. eggs and larvae. Twenty each were counted into each of the various concentrations of the eighteen aqueous plant extracts: 62.5, 125, 250, 500, and 1000 mg/L.They were each put in a labeled transparent bowl (300ml). The hatch rates were assessed at 48 hours post-treatment while the percentage mortality of 2nd instar larvae was determined 24 hours post treatment. Spilanthes filicaulis exerted 100% mortality at 1000, 500 and 250 mg/L while Bidens pilosa and Acanthospermum hispidum exerted 100% mortality at 1000 and 500mg/L. Zero percent hatchability was recorded for Spilanthes filicaulis , Bidens pilosa and Acanthospermum hispidum at 1000 and 500 mg/L.The order of increasing larvicidal activity (percent mortality) is Spilanthes filicaulis (100.00 ± 0.0) > Bidens pilosa (71.25 ± 1.3) > Acanthospermum hispidum (58.75 ± 2.4) at 1000mg/L. Other plant extracts showed little or no mortality. Our findings suggest that the aqueous leaf extracts of Spilanthes filicaulis , Bidens pilosa and Acanthospermum hispidum were very effective against eggs and larvae of this important vector specie. The leaf extract of these plants therefore could be a potential source of herbal larvicide for vector control and could be used in integrated vector management which is being encouraged by WHO. Keywords: Leaf; Aqueous Extracts; Nigerian Asteraceae Plants; Larvicidal Activities; Ovicidal Activities; Aedes aegypti ; Plant Larvicides

Ethnopharmacological relevance Acanthospermum hispidum DC. is an important medicinal herb that belongs to family Asteraceae, popularly used as a diuretic and hypotensive in the region of Pantanal, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Despite the relevance of this species throughout the country, there are no detailed studies about its possible ethnobotanical indication. Aim To carry out a detailed ethnopharmacological investigation of the cardio-renal properties of A. hispidum. Materials and methods First, a detailed morpho-anatomical study with the purpose of characterizing and providing quality control parameters for the species was carried out. Then, purified aqueous extract (ESAH) was obtained and a detailed phytochemical investigation about its main secondary metabolites was performed. In addition, a thorough acute toxicological study was conducted to evaluate the actual toxic effects of this preparation. Finally, the possible diuretic and hypotensive effects of ESAH on male Wistar rats (30, 100, 300 mg/kg; intraduodenally) were evaluated, and using pharmacological antagonists or inhibitors, the involvement of prostaglandin/cAMP and nitric oxide/cGMP pathway and potassium channels in ESAH-induced hypotension was investigated. Results The analyses performed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry showed that the main secondary metabolites present in ESAH were phenolic compounds, such as caffeoylquinic acids (chlorogenic acid), dicaffeoylquinic acids and glycosylated flavonoids (quercetin glucoside and galactoside). ESAH did not induce any acute toxic effects and did not affect the urinary volume or renal excretion of electrolytes in Wistar rats. On the other hand, intraduodenal administration of ESAH induces a significant acute hypotensive effect. Previous treatment with N(G)-nitro- L -arginine methyl ester, methylene blue, or tetraethylammonium fully avoided the hypotensive effect of ESAH. All other parameters were not affected by treatment with ESAH. Conclusion Data obtained in this study allow us to suggest that ESAH obtained from A. hispidum presents an important acute hypotensive effect, which appears to be dependent on the nitric oxide/cGMP pathway. This study presents new evidences about the therapeutic potential of this species when acute hypotensive response is required.