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A 3ª edição do Congresso Internacional de Estudantes e Profissionais da Saúde – DELTA SAÚDE, realizou-se de forma presencial no período de 04 a 06 de novembro de 2022, no Centro de Convenções do Hotel SESC Praia, Luis Correia, Piauí. O Delta Saúde 2022 trouxe como tema geral: “O pós-pandemia e os principais desafios da saúde global”; e as discussões foram norteadas pelos eixos centrais, a saber: a) Pandemia de COVID-19, b) Vigilância em Saúde, c) Saúde Pública e a Atenção Primária, d) Saúde Mental, e) Doenças Crônicas e Doenças Transmissíveis, f) Educação, Formação e Trabalho na Saúde, g) Inovação em Saúde, h) Eixos Transversais. O evento foi criado em 2017 e nesta edição alcançamos pelo menos 10 estados brasileiros em participação direta, palestrantes, convidados, além dos conferencistas internacionais on-line. Esta diversidade aliada a qualidade dos trabalhos apresentados, contribuiu de forma decisiva para o alcance dos objetivos do congresso que primam pela qualificação do ensino na saúde de acadêmicos e pósgraduandos, pelo fortalecimento das práticas profissionais nos serviços de saúde, e pelo incentivo à produção científica. A programação do evento foi composta por palestras nacionais e internacionais, mesas multidisciplinares, cursos livres, seminários, rodas de conversas, encontros e sessões de trabalhos com apresentações nas modalidades: Comunicações Orais e Pôsteres; e com publicação das pesquisas científicas nos Anais do congresso. O evento contou com 692 inscritos, e destes 42 foram palestrantes que abrilhantaram a programação do congresso. Recebemos 746 resumos para avaliação, e foram apresentados presencialmente 536 trabalhos, sendo 42 premiados com menção honrosa. O evento foi idealizado pela Sociedade Delta Científica e SBCSaúde, teve o apoio do SESC-PI e da Doity, além do apoio científico da FIOCRUZ Piauí, da Editora Pasteur, dos núcleos de pesquisa NUPCelt/UFPI, NAPsiTO/UFPI/UFDPar e NPPM/UFPI; e dos programas de residência multiprofissional RMSFC/UESPI e PRMSF/UFPI/UFDPar. O evento também contou com a parceria de empresas patrocinadoras e expositoras, que tiveram da Comissão Organizadora reciprocidade em suas demandas, a saber: Instituto UniEducacional, WM Saúde e The Nutri Store/PACCO.

Introdução: O procedimento de tatuagem oferece risco biológico aos profissionais e clientes. Objetivo: Descrever as condições higiênicas e sanitárias, bem como analisar a adoção de procedimentos para a gestão de riscos de biossegurança por profissionais tatuadores que atuam em estúdios de tatuagem de um município localizado na região noroeste do estado do Ceará, Brasil. Método: Estudo qualitativo, descritivo e transversal, realizado em cinco estúdios de tatuagem através da aplicação de um checklist baseado em Referência Técnica para o funcionamento dos serviços de tatuagem e piercing da Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (2009). Resultados: Os principais pontos negativos fazem alusão ao funcionamento de estúdios clandestinos, registro precário dos dados pessoais dos clientes e coleta inadequada do lixo infectante. Por outro lado, os principais pontos positivos alcançados nesse estudo estão relacionados com o descarte adequado de objetos perfurocortantes, existência de local reservado e adequado para o procedimento de tatuagem, incluindo pia para a lavagem das mãos próxima ao local do procedimento. A pesquisa evidenciou também que os profissionais tatuadores possuem materiais e equipamentos apropriados para as respectivas práticas, porém executam procedimentos de biossegurança de maneira incorreta, os quais predispõem profissionais e clientes a fatores de risco biológico. Conclusões: Os estúdios de tatuagem analisados apresentam pobre adequação às normas da Vigilância Sanitária, as quais são insuficientes para garantir a promoção e manutenção da segurança para a saúde de todos os envolvidos em procedimentos de estética corporal do tipo tatuagem.

A large number of infections are caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative multi-resistant bacteria worldwide, adding up to a figure of around 700,000 deaths per year. The indiscriminate uses of antibiotics, as well as their misuse, resulted in the selection of bacteria resistant to known antibiotics, for which it has little or no treatment. In this way, the strategies to combat the resistance of microorganisms are extremely important and, essential oils of Croton species have been extensively studied for this purpose. The aim of this study was to carry the evaluation of antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant activities, and spectroscopic investigation of essential oil from Croton piauhiensis (EOCp). The EOCp exhibited antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with required MICs ranging from 0.15 to 5% (v/v). In addition, the MBC of the EOCp for Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and ATCC 700698, were 0.15 and 1.25%, respectively. Moreover, the EOCp significantly reduced significantly the biofilm production and the number of viable cells from the biofilm of all bacterial strains tested. The antioxidant potential of the EOCp showed EC50 values ranging from 171.21 to 4623.83 μg/mL. The EOCp caused hemolysis (>45%) at the higher concentrations tested (1.25 to 5%), and minor hemolysis (17.6%) at a concentration of 0.07%. In addition, docking studies indicated d-limonene as a phytochemical with potential for antimicrobial activity. This study indicated that the EOCp may be a potential agent against infections caused by bacterial biofilms, and act as a protective agent against ROS and oxidative stress.

The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial activity, antibiotic-associated synergy, and anti-biofilm activity of the ruthenium complex, cis-[RuCl2 (dppb) (bqdi)]2+ (RuNN). RuNN exhi...

This study aims to evaluate the wound healing potential of lectin isolated from the seeds of

The aim of this work was to evaluate the antibiofilm activity of two diterpenes isolated from specimens of Croton blanchetianus against dental caries-related oral Streptococci. The diterpenes, methyl 12-hydroxy-3,4-seco-cleistanta-8,11,13,15,4(18)-pentaen-3-oate (ICB4) and ent-3,4-seco-atisan-4 (18),16-dien-3-oic acid (ICB8) were tested on the inhibition of the biofilm formation and on pre-formed biofilms of Streptococcus parasanguinis ATCC903 and Streptococcus mutans ATCC700610. The antibiofilm activity, was verified by total biomass biofilm (crystal violet staining) and colony forming units (CFUs) quantification. Moreover, electromicrographs were obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), in order to visualize biofilms damage caused by the diterpenes. In general, ICB4 and ICB8 showed significant reduction in total biomass and cell viability of Streptococci biofilms, in the biofilms development and pre-formed biofilms. Was observed reduction of biomass biofilm close to 100% in the highest concentrations of ICB4 and ICB8, and number of CFUs of Streptococci biofilms was reduced in ranging from 2.0 to 5.42 Log CFU/mL in biofilm formation and 0.8 to 3.5 42 Log CFU/mL in pre-formed biofilms. Electron micrographs showed structural changes in cell morphology and structure of S. mutans biofilm. The results obtained in this study showed diterpenes isolated from C. blanchetianus with activity in the prevention and control of biofilm formed by S. mutans and S. parasanguinis.

A large number of infections are caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative multi-resistant bacteria worldwide, adding up to a figure of around 700,000 deaths per year. The indiscriminate uses of antibiotics, as well as their misuse, resulted in the selection of bacteria resistant to known antibiotics, for which it has little or no treatment. In this way, the strategies to combat the resistance of microorganisms are extremely important and, essential oils of Croton species have been extensively studied for this purpose. The aim of this study was to carry the evaluation of antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant activities, and spectroscopic investigation of essential oil from Croton piauhiensis (EOCp). The EOCp exhibited antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with required MICs ranging from 0.15 to 5% (v/v). In addition, the MBC of the EOCp for Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and ATCC 700698, were 0.15 and 1.25%, respectively. Moreover, the EOCp significantly reduced significantly the biofilm production and the number of viable cells from the biofilm of all bacterial strains tested. The antioxidant potential of the EOCp showed EC

Background: An ideal strategy for cancer treatment is the specific induction of tumor cell death, sparing normal cells. Marine sponges are rich biological reservoirs of biomolecules, especially lectins, which have attracted considerable attention due to potential biological effect on human cells. Lectins are proteins that bind specific carbohydrate signatures and some gained further interest for their capacity to bind tumor associated carbohydrates antigens and induce tumor cell apoptosis. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antitumor potential of H3, a lectin, recently reported from marine sponge Haliclona caerulea on the human breast cancer cell line MCF7. Results: H3 reduced MCF7 cell viability with an IC50 of 100 µg/ml, without a significant effect on normal cells. At 24 h, H3 induced a significant arrest in the G1 cell cycle phase. Consistently, almost 50% of the cells were in early apoptosis and showed remarkable increased expression of caspase-9 (CASP 9). H3 impaired dramatically the adhesiveness of MCF7 cells in culture. Assays conducted with Lysotracker Red probe showed increased organelle acidity, suggesting autophagic cell death, which was further supported by increased expression of microtubuleassociated protein light chain 3 (LC3) and observable conversion of LC3-I in LC3-II by western blot. Conclusion: The apoptotic effect of H3 may be related to a balance between apoptotic and autophagic cell death, mediated by increased expression of CASP 9 and LC3-II. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report about a sponge lectin triggering both apoptosis and autophagy in MCF7 cell.

This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant effect and antibacterial activity of the triterpene 3β,6β,16β-trihydroxylup-20(29)-ene (CLF1) isolated from Combretum leprosum leaves on mature biofilms from Streptococcus mutans and S. parasanguinis, both involved in dental caries. In order to determine the bacterial death time curve promoted by CLF1, minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were also assessed. The susceptibility of mature biofilms from both species to CLF1 was investigated through total biomass quantification and enumeration of biofilm-entrapped colony forming units. Moreover, the effect of CLF1 on S. mutans biofilm architecture was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of CLF1 were assessed by scavenging of 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical, ferrous ion chelating assay, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, and β-carotene bleaching assay. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of CLF1 for both species were 3.9 and 15.6 μg/mL, respectively, and no bacterial growth was detected at 24 h treatment. Moreover, CLF1 reduced the biomass and viability of biofilms from both species. Electron micrographs of S. mutans biofilms confirmed such results and showed damages on bacterial surface. Regarding antioxidant activity, CLF1 showed efficient antioxidant ability in scavenging DPPH radical and inhibiting β-carotene oxidation. In summary, CLF1 should be considered as an effective molecule against infections caused by S. mutans and S. parasanguinis biofilms, as well as a natural antioxidant.

The purpose of this work was to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of five chalcogenoesters synthetics on oral bacteria, Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus parasanguinis. Five chalcogenoesters were synthesized, purified by chromatography in silica gel and its chemical structure determined by nuclear magnetic resonance. Antibacterial assays were performed using the microdilution methodology. The antibiofilm activity of chalcogenoesters was determined on biofilm formation and preformed biofilms by biofilm mass quantification (by crystal violet staining) and colony forming unit enumeration. Moreover, biofilms were also analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. In general, it was observed that the chalcogenolesters showed antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus parasanguinis. Regarding biofilm formation and preformed biofilm, all compounds reduced efficiently the biofilm mass and of viable cells of Streptococcus parasanguinis and Streptococcus mutans biofilms. However, Streptococcus mutans biofilms showed greater resistance to action of chalcogenolesters. Scanning electron microscopy examination confirmed the results, showing a reduction of the extracellular polymeric substance and number of cells in biofilm. Our result indicated that the chalcogenoesters tested here can be considered as promising molecules for prevention and control of oral biofilms formed by Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus parasanguinis.

A new lectin from Aplysia dactylomela eggs (ADEL) was isolated by affinity chromatography on HCl-activated Sepharose™ media. Hemagglutination caused by ADEL was inhibited by several galactosides, mainly galacturonic acid (Ka = 6.05 × 106 M−1). The primary structure of ADEL consists of 217 residues, including 11 half-cystines involved in five intrachain and one interchain disulfide bond, resulting in a molecular mass of 57,228 ± 2 Da, as determined by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry. ADEL showed high similarity with lectins isolated from Aplysia eggs, but not with other known lectins, indicating that these lectins could be grouped into a new family of animal lectins. Three glycosylation sites were found in its polypeptide backbone. Data from peptide-N-glycosidase F digestion and MS suggest that all oligosaccharides attached to ADEL are high in mannose. The secondary structure of ADEL is predominantly β-sheet, and its tertiary structure is sensitive to the presence of ligands, as observed by CD. A 3D structure model of ADEL was created and shows two domains connected by a short loop. Domain A is composed of a flat three-stranded and a curved five-stranded β-sheet, while domain B presents a flat three-stranded and a curved four-stranded β-sheet. Molecular docking revealed favorable binding energies for interactions between lectin and galacturonic acid, lactose, galactosamine, and galactose. Moreover, ADEL was able to agglutinate and inhibit biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus, suggesting that this lectin may be a potential alternative to conventional use of antimicrobial agents in the treatment of infections caused by Staphylococcal biofilms.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:34:22Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-11-26 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) The aims of this study were to describe the synthesis of a novel synthetic peptide based on the primary structure of the KR-12 peptide and to evaluate its antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities against Streptococcus mutans. The antimicrobial effect of KR-12 and [W7]KR12-KAEK was assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory (MIC) and minimum bactericidal (MBC) concentrations. The evaluation of anti-biofilm activity was assessed through total biomass quantification, colony forming unit counting and scanning electron microscopy. [W7]KR12-KAEK showed MIC and MBC values ranging from 31.25 to 7.8 and 62.5 to 15.6 μg ml−1, respectively. Furthermore, [W7]KR12-KAEK significantly reduced biofilm biomass (50–100%). Regarding cell viability, [W7]KR12-KAEK showed reductions in the number of CFUs at concentrations ranging from 62.5 to 7.8 μg ml−1 and 500 to 62.5 μg ml−1 with respect to biofilm formation and preformed biofilms, respectively. SEM micrographs of S. mutans treated with [W7]KR12-KAEK suggested damage to the bacterial surface. [W7]KR12-KAEK is demonstrated to be an antimicrobial agent to control microbial biofilms. DPML/LIBS Integrated Laboratory of Biomolecules Federal University of Ceará School of Dentistry Faculdades INTA Institute of Chemistry Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) School of Dentistry Universidade de Fortaleza - UNIFOR Department of Biological Sciences Universidade do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte Institute of Biological Science Universidade Federal de Goiás Institute of Chemistry Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) CNPq: 457594/2014-4

Ethnopharmacological relevance Combretum leprosum Mart. is a native species of the Caatinga, an important biome in the Brazilian semi-arid region. This species is commonly used in Brazil as a healing agent, as well as for the treatment of skin diseases. Aim of the study This study investigated the healing potential of the ethanolic extract (EECL) and the bioactive triterpene 3β, 6β, 16β-trihydroxylup-20 (29)-ene (CLF-1) isolated from the leaves of C. leprosum . Materials and methods Skin wounds (1 cm 2 ) were created in the dorsal zone of mice with a scalpel blade number 15. The treatment consisted in a daily topical application of 100 μl of 150 mM NaCl, EECL and CLF-1 (at 10 μg/100 μl) for 12 days. The lesions were then macro and microscopically evaluated. Results On postoperative day (POD) 2, the lesions treated with EECL and CLF-1 showed a moderate presence of vessels of the granulation tissue progressing in the dermis. The same effect was not observed in the control group. The treatment with EECL and CLF-1 stimulated angiogenesis, resulting in a rapid deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Moreover, the animals treated with EECL and CLF-1 showed smaller lesions on POD 7, primarily due to the contraction in the reticular dermis induced by organization of myofibroblasts, which was not observed in the group treated with NaCl. In addition, the lesions treated with EECL and CLF-1 showed ECM restructuration and presence of epithelium coating, which was not observed in the group treated with NaCl, in which the lesions showed no epithelial lining, suggesting delayed healing. Conclusion CLF-1 isolated from the leaves of C. leprosum may be considered to be an important molecule for the treatment of skin lesions. However, further investigations are necessary to establish its role in chronic lesions and to elucidate the mechanism of action involved in the cutaneous healing process. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the pro-healing activity of the ethanolic extract and the triterpene 3β, 6β, 16β-trihydroxylup-20(29)-ene isolated from leaves of C. leprosum .

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the compound 1,4-dihydroxy-2E,6E,12E-trien-5-one-casbane (CD1CN), a casbane diterpene isolated from Croton nepetaefolius stalks, on the biofilm formation or preformed biofilms of bacteria and yeasts. Minimum inhibitory concentration results showed that CD1CN inhibited the growth of single cultures of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans at 125 and 500 g/mL, respectively, as well as dual cultures of S. aureus with C. albicans or Candida glabrata at 500 and 250 g/mL, respectively. In general, CD1CN reduced biofilm biomass when applied to preformed biofilms or when applied during the biofilm formation of single and dual cultures in concentrations ranging from 31.25 to 250 g/mL, depending on the culture. CD1CN was more effective in reducing the cfu of S. aureus in single and dual biofilms (62.5–250 g/mL) than that of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, although this reduction was also significant. For yeasts, CD1CN was generally more effective in reducing C. glabrata cfu in single or dual cultures when compared to C. albicans. SEM images of the dual-species biofilms confirmed these results. In conclusion, CD1CN could be an effective alternative to conventional antimicrobial agents against infectious biofilms, in particular those attributed to mixed cultures., This study was supported by the Coordenacao de Aperfeicomento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior (CAPES - Brazil) through the BEX NT 2052/11NT3 project managed by the Instituto de Biotecnologia e Bioengenharia-Centro de Engenharia Biologica (IBB-CEB) and Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia (FCT - Portugal); by the European Community fund FEDER through the COMPETE Program under the auspices of Project PTDC/SAU-ESA/646091/2006/FCOMP-01-0124-FEDER-007480; and by Fundacao Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (Funcap - Brazil) through the BPI-0067-00068.01.00/12 project. BSC and EHT are senior researchers of CNPq. Mr. David Martin helped with the English editing of the manuscript that was also revised by AJE (American Journal Experts).

Recent studies have shown that lectins are promising tools for use in various biotechnological processes, as well as studies of various pathological mechanisms, isolation, and characterization of glycoconjugates and understanding the mechanisms underlying pathological mechanisms conditions, including the inflammatory response. This study aimed to purify, characterize physicochemically, and predict the biological activity of Canavalia oxyphylla lectin (CoxyL) in vitro and in vivo. CoxyL was purified by a single-step affinity chromatography in Sephadex® G-50 column. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the pure lectin consists of a major band of 30 kDa (α-chain) and two minor components (β-chain and γ-chain) of 16 and 13 kDa, respectively. These data were further confirmed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, suggesting that CoxyL is a typical ConA-like lectin. In comparison with the average molecular mass of α-chain, the partial amino acid sequence obtained corresponds to approximately 45% of the total CoxyL sequence. CoxyL presented hemagglutinating activity that was specifically inhibited by monosaccharides (D-glucose, D-mannose, and α-methyl-D-mannoside) and glycoproteins (ovalbumin and fetuin). Moreover, CoxyL was shown to be thermostable, exhibiting full hemagglutinating activity up to 60°C, and it was pH-sensitive for 1 h, exhibiting maximal activity at pH 7.0. CoxyL caused toxicity to Artemia nauplii and induced paw edema in rats. This biological activity highlights the importance of lectins as important tools to better understand the mechanisms underlying inflammatory responses.

This study evaluated the effect of derriobtusone A, a flavonoid isolated from Lonchocarpus obtusus, on two important pathogenic bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, as well as its antioxidant activity and toxicity. Planktonic growth assays were performed, and the inhibition of biofilm formation was evaluated. In addition, antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH radical scavenging assay, ferrous ion chelating assay, ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay, and β-carotene bleaching assay. Toxicity was evaluated by the brine shrimp lethality test. Results showed that derriobtusone A completely inhibited the planktonic growth of S. aureus at 250 and 500 μg/mL; however, it did not have the same activity on E. coli. Derriobtusone A reduced the biomass and colony-forming unit (cfu) of S. aureus biofilm at concentrations of 250 and 500 μg/mL. In various concentrations, it reduced the biofilm biomass of E. coli, and, in all concentrations, it weakly reduced the cfu. Derriobtusone A showed highly efficient antioxidant ability in scavenging DPPH radical and inhibiting β-carotene oxidation. The compound showed no lethality to Artemia sp. nauplii. In conclusion, derriobtusone A may be an effective molecule against S. aureus and its biofilm, as well as a potential antioxidant compound with no toxicity., This study was supported by CAPES (Brazil) through the BEX NT 2052/11NT3 Project and by IBB-CEB and FCT (Portugal) and European Community Fund FEDER, through Program COMPETE, in the ambit of Project PTDC/SAU-ESA/646091/2006/FCOMP-01-0124-FEDER-007480. Otilia Deusdenia Loiola Pessoa, Benildo Sousa Cavada, and Edson Holanda Teixeira are Senior Fellows of CNPq. Mr. David Martin helped with the English editing of the paper.

Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease transmitted by phlebotomine sand fly. Susceptibility and refractoriness toLeishmaniadepend on the outcome of multiple interactions that take place within the sand fly gut. Promastigote attachment to sand fly midgut epithelium is essential to avoid being excreted together with the digested blood meal. Promastigote and gut sand fly surface glycans are important ligands in this attachment. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the interaction of three lectins isolated from leguminous seeds (Diocleinae subtribe), D-glucose and D-mannose-binding, with glycans onLutzomyia migoneimidgut. To study this interaction the lectins were labeled with FITC and a fluorescence assay was performed. The results showed that onlyDioclea violacealectin (DVL) was able to interact with midgut glycans, unlikeCratylia floribundalectin (CFL) andCanavalia gladiatalectin (CGL). Furthermore, when DVL was blocked with D-mannose the interaction was inhibited. Differences of spatial arrangement of residues and volume of carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) may be the cause of the fine specificity of DVL for glycans in the surface onLu. migoneimidgut. The findings in this study showed the presence of glycans in the midgut with glucose/mannose residues in its composition and these residues may be important in interaction betweenLu. migoneimidgut andLeishmania.

The aim of this study was to determine the binding patterns of Canavalia ensiformis (ConA), Canavalia boliviana (ConBol) and Canavalia brasiliensis (ConBr) lectins to bovine sperm and their effects on sperm motility, viability, lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species production and fertilization ability. ConA bound to whole spermatozoa, with the exception of the equatorial segment, ConBol did not interact with the acrosome region and ConBr exhibited a fragmented binding pattern. The three lectins decreased sperm motility but did not affect cell viability or lipid peroxidation. Nevertheless, ROS production was increased in comparison to controls and a reduction in the cleavage and blastocyst ratio was induced in comparison to controls. In conclusion, this study determined that structurally similar lectins interact differently with bovine sperm and affect sperm motility, viability, lipid peroxidation, ROS production and fertilization ability in various ways.

Rhizobium tropici is a Gram-negative bacterium that induces nodules and fixed atmospheric nitrogen in symbiotic association with Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean) and some other leguminous species. Lectins are proteins that specifically bind to carbohydrates and, consequently, modulate different biological functions. In this study, the d-glucose/ d-mannose-binding lectins (from seeds of Dioclea megacarpa, D. rostrata and D. violacea) and D-galactose-binding lectins (from seeds of Bauhinia variegata, Erythina velutina and Vatairea macrocarpa) were purified using chromatographic techniques and evaluated for their effect on the growth of R. tropici CIAT899. All lectins were assayed with a satisfactory degree of purity according to SDS-PAGE analysis, and stimulated bacterial growth; in particular, the Dioclea rostrata lectin was the most active among all tested proteins. As confirmed in the present study, both d-galactose- and d-glucose/d-mannose-binding lectins purified from the seeds of leguminous plants may be powerful biotechnological tools to stimulate the growth of R. tropici CIAT99, thus improving symbiotic interaction between rhizobia and common bean and, hence, the production of this field crop.

The peptide LYS-[TRP(6)]-Hy-A1 (Lys-a1) is a synthetic derivative of the peptide Hy-A1, initially isolated from the frog species Hypsiboas albopunctatus. According to previous research, it is a molecule with broad antimicrobial activity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the synthetic peptide Lys-a1 (KIFGAIWPLALGALKNLIK-NH2) on the planktonic and biofilm growth of oral bacteria. The methods used to evaluate antimicrobial activity include the following: determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) in microtiter plates for growth in suspension and quantification of biomass by crystal violet staining and counting of colony forming units for biofilm growth. The microorganisms Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus parasanguinis, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus were grown in Brain Heart Infusion broth at 37°C under atmospheric pressure with 10% CO2. The peptide was solubilized in 0.1% acetic acid (v/v) at various concentrations (500-1.9 μg mL(-1)). Chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12% was used as the positive control, and BHI culture medium was used as the negative control. The tested peptide demonstrated a remarkable antimicrobial effect, inhibiting the planktonic and biofilm growth of all strains tested, even at low concentrations. Thus, the peptide Lys-a1 is an important source for potential antimicrobial agents, especially for the control and prevention of microbial biofilms, which is one of the most important factors in cariogenic processes.

Bacteria form biofilms as an adaptive mechanism in response to environmental changes. Streptococcus mutans is the biofilm-forming bacterium that is primarily associated with dental caries. The expression of important genes by bacteria in biofilms is different from that of planktonic cells. Lectins are proteins that bind specifically to carbohydrates and may have important biological activities on bacterial cells, acting as antibacterial and anti-biofilm agents. ConM (Canavalia maritima lectin) is a protein that is able to inhibit the planktonic growth and biofilm formation of S. mutans. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of ConM and concanavalin A (ConA) on the expression of genes related to virulence and biofilm formation in S. mutans. The results showed that ConM significantly reduced the expression of genes encoding enzymes related to adhesion, formation and regulation of biofilms. On the contrary, ConA did not alter the expression of the genes studied. Because the two lectins have a high degree of similarity, the differences in the actions of ConM and ConA may be explained by the small structural differences in the carbohydrate recognition domain of the lectins.

Lectins are a structurally heterogeneous group of proteins that have specific binding sites for carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. Because of their biotechnological potential, lectins are widely used in biomedical research. The present study aimed to evaluate the healing potential of the lectin isolated from the marine red alga Bryothamnion seaforthii (BSL). The lectin was purified using ion exchange chromatography with DEAE cellulose and characterized using tandem mass spectrometry. For healing tests, skin wounds were induced in the dorsal thoracic region of mice. These animals were randomly divided into three groups and subjected to topical treatment for 12 days with BSL, bovine serum albumin and 150 mM NaCl. To evaluate the potential of each treatment, the animals were anesthetized and sacrificed on days 2, 7 and 12, respectively. The parameters evaluated included the wound area, the proportion of wound closure and the histological diagnosis. The wound closure was more effective with BSL (Postoperative Day 7 and 12) than controls. The luminal epithelium was completely restructured; the presence of collagen in the dermis and the strongly active presence of young skin annexes demonstrate the potential of treatment with BSL compared with controls. Our findings suggest that BSL has pro-healing properties and can be a potential medical process in the treatment of acute wounds.

Lectins are a structurally heterogeneous group of proteins that have specific binding sites for carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. Because of their biotechnological potential, lectins are widely used in biomedical research. The present study aimed to evaluate the healing potential of the lectin isolated from the marine red alga Bryothamnion seaforthii (BSL). The lectin was purified using ion exchange chromatography with DEAE cellulose and characterized using tandem mass spectrometry. For healing tests, skin wounds were induced in the dorsal thoracic region of mice. These animals were randomly divided into three groups and subjected to topical treatment for 12 days with BSL, bovine serum albumin and 150 mM NaCl. To evaluate the potential of each treatment, the animals were anesthetized and sacrificed on days 2, 7 and 12, respectively. The parameters evaluated included the wound area, the proportion of wound closure and the histological diagnosis. The wound closure was more effective with BSL (Postoperative Day 7 and 12) than controls. The luminal epithelium was completely restructured; the presence of collagen in the dermis and the strongly active presence of young skin annexes demonstrate the potential of treatment with BSL compared with controls. Our findings suggest that BSL has pro-healing properties and can be a potential medical process in the treatment of acute wounds.

Lectins are a structurally heterogeneous group of proteins that have specific binding sites for carbohydrates and glycoconjugates. Because of their biotechnological potential, lectins are widely used in biomedical research. The present study aimed to evaluate the healing potential of the lectin isolated from the marine red alga Bryothamnion seaforthii (BSL). The lectin was purified using ion exchange chromatography with DEAE cellulose and characterized using tandem mass spectrometry. For healing tests, skin wounds were induced in the dorsal thoracic region of mice. These animals were randomly divided into three groups and subjected to topical treatment for 12 days with BSL, bovine serum albumin and 150 mM NaCl. To evaluate the potential of each treatment, the animals were anesthetized and sacrificed on days 2, 7 and 12, respectively. The parameters evaluated included the wound area, the proportion of wound closure and the histological diagnosis. The wound closure was more effective with BSL (Postoperative Day 7 and 12) than controls. The luminal epithelium was completely restructured; the presence of collagen in the dermis and the strongly active presence of young skin annexes demonstrate the potential of treatment with BSL compared with controls. Our findings suggest that BSL has pro-healing properties and can be a potential medical process in the treatment of acute wounds.

Bacillus sphaericus produces a two-chain binary toxin composed of BinA (42 kDa) and BinB (51 kDa), which are deposited as parasporal crystals during sporulation. The toxin is highly active against Culex larvae and Aedes and Anopheles mosquitoes, which are the principal vectors for the transmission of malaria, yellow fever, encephalitis, and dengue. The use of B. sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis in mosquito control programs is limited by their sedimentation in still water. In this study, the binA and binB genes were cloned and the recombinant BinAB protein was expressed in three strains of Escherichia coli. These recombinant strains were used in a toxicity assay against Culex quinquefasciatus larvae. The highest expression level was achieved when both proteins were expressed in a single operon construct. The BinAB protein expressed in the E. coli Arctic strain showed higher larvicidal activity than either of the recombinant proteins from the E. coli Ril or pLysS strains. Furthermore, it had the highest oviposition attraction (49.1%, P < 0.05). These data suggest that biologically active recombinant BinA and BinB toxins might be useful in mosquito control programs, delivered by inactivated bacterial cells or in traps.

Croton nepetaefolius is a native plant from northeastern Brazil that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. The biological action of this plant has been extensively explored, being the secondary metabolites responsible for its properties alkaloids, diterpenes, and triterpenes. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of casbane diterpene (CD), isolated from the ethanolic extract of C. nepetaefolius, to inhibit microbial growth and biofilm formation of several clinical relevant species (bacteria and yeasts). It was found that CD possessed biocidal and biostatic activity against the majority of the species screened, with minimal active concentrations ranging between 125 and 500 µg/mL. In addition, it was observed that biofilm formation was inhibited even when the planktonic growth was not significantly affected. In conclusion, CD showed potential to be a natural tool for the treatment of diseases caused by different infectious microorganisms, This study was supported by FUNCAP and CNPq (Brazil) and by FCT (Portugal) through the project PTDC/SAU-ESA/64609/2006.

Biofilms are assemblages of microorganisms and their associated extracellular products at an interface and typically with an abiotic or biotic surface. The study of the morphology of biofilms is important because they are associated with processes of biofouling, corrosion, catalysis, pollutant transformation, dental caries, drug resistance, and so forth. In the literature, biofilms have been examined by atomic force microscopy (AFM), which has proven to be a potent tool to study different aspects of the biofilm development on solid surfaces. In this work, we used AFM to investigate topographical changes during the development process ofEnterococcus faecalisbiofilms, which were generated on sterile cellulose nitrate membrane (CNM) filters in brain heart infusion (BHI) broth agar blood plates after 24, 36, 72, 192, and 360 h. AFM height images showed topographical changes due to biofilm development, which were used to characterize several aspects of the bacterial surface, such as the presence of extracellular polymeric substance, and the biofilm development stage. Changes in the development stage of the biofilm were shown to correlate with changes in the surface roughness as quantified through the mean roughness.

This study aimed to evaluate the abilities of plant and algae lectins to inhibit planktonic growth and biofilm formation in bacteria and yeasts. Initially, ten lectins were tested on Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella oxytoca, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and C. tropicalis at concentrations of 31.25 to 250 μg/mL. The lectins from Cratylia floribunda (CFL), Vatairea macrocarpa (VML), Bauhinia bauhinioides (BBL), Bryothamnion seaforthii (BSL), and Hypnea musciformis (HML) showed activities against at least one microorganism. Biofilm formation in the presence of the lectins was also evaluated; after 24 h of incubation with the lectins, the biofilms were analyzed by quantifying the biomass (by crystal violet staining) and by enumerating the viable cells (colony-forming units). The lectins reduced the biofilm biomass and/or the number of viable cells to differing degrees depending on the microorganism tested, demonstrating the different characteristics of the lectins. These findings indicate that the lectins tested in this study may be natural alternative antimicrobial agents; however, further studies are required to better elucidate the functional use of these proteins., This study was supported by the CAPES (Brazil) under the BEX NT 2052/11NT3 Project, by the IBB-CEB and FCT (Portugal), by the European Community Fund FEDER, and by the COMPETE Program under the auspices of the PTDC/SAU-ESA/646091/2006/FCOMP-01-0124-FEDER-007480 Project. Kyria Santiago Nascimento, Alexandre Holanda Sampaio, Benildo Sousa Cavada, and Edson Holanda Teixeira are Senior Fellows of CNPq. Mr. David Martin helped with the English editing of the paper that was also revised by AJE (American Journal Experts).

Lectins are sugar-binding proteins widely distributed in nature with many biological functions. Although many lectins have a remarkable biotechnological potential, some of them can be cytotoxic. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the toxicity of five lectins, purified from seeds of different species ofCanavaliagenus. In order to determine the toxicity, assays withArtemianauplii were performed. In addition, a fluorescence assay was carried out to evaluate the binding of lectins toArtemianauplii. In order to verify the relationship between the structure of lectins and their cytotoxic effect, structural analysis was carried out to evaluate the volume of the carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) of each lectin. The results showed that all lectins exhibited different toxicities and bound to a similar area in the digestive tract ofArtemianauplii. Concerning the structural analysis, differences in spatial arrangement and volume of CRD may explain the variation of the toxicity exhibited by each lectin. To this date, this is the first study that establishes a link between toxicity and structure of CRD from Diocleinae lectins.

Lectins are proteins or glycoproteins with the ability to link to carbohydrates at the cell surface in a specific and reversible manner. Studies have showed that lectins are demonstrate immunomodulatory and antitumor agents. This study aims to evaluate the effect of lectin extracted from the seeds of Canavalia brasiliensis (ConBr) on murine melanoma B16F10 cells by analyzing cell viability, apoptosis index, cell migration, production of cytokines and nitric oxide (NO). Results showed that ConBr was able to reduce cell viability and thwart apoptosis, which could be observed by decrease in cell migration. ConBr also induced NO and IL-12 synthesis. Altogether, these data demonstrate the potential of ConBr as a therapeutic agent for melanoma.

Aims The aim of the present work was to study the in vitro effect of native and recombinant Bauhinia variegata var. variegata lectins in inhibiting early adhesion of Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguis and Streptococcus sobrinus to experimentally acquired pellicle. Methods and Results Native lectin from B. variegata (BVL) was purified by affinity chromatography of extract of seeds. The recombinant lectin (rBVL-I) was expressed in E. coli strain BL21 (DE3) from a genomic clone encoding the mature B. variegata lectin gene using the vector pAE-bvlI. Recombinant protein deposited in inclusion bodies was solubilized and subsequently purified by affinity chromatography. The rBVL-I was compared to BVL for agglutination of erythrocytes and initial adherence of oral bacteria on a saliva-coated surface. The results revealed that rBVL-I acts similarly to BVL for agglutination of erythrocytes. Both lectins showed adhesion inhibition effect on Step. sanguis, Step. mutans and Step. sobrinus. Conclusion We report, for the first time, the inhibition of early adhesion of oral bacteria by a recombinant lectin. Significance and Impact of the Study Our results support the proposed biotechnological application of lectins in a strategy to reduce development of dental caries by inhibiting the initial adhesion and biofilm formation.

More than 120 years ago, Peter Hermann Stillmark in his doctoral thesis presented in 1888 to the University of Dorpat, gave the earliest step in the study of proteins that have a very interesting feature: the ability to agglutinate erythrocytes. These proteins were initially referred as to hemagglutinins or phytoagglutinins, since they were originally isolated from extracts of plants [1]. The first hemagglutinin isolated by Stillmark was extracted from seeds of the castor tree (Riccinus communis) and was named ricin [2]. This hemagglutinin was strongly used by Paul Ehrlich as model antigens for immunological studies [2,3].

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins of non-imune origin. This group of proteins is distributed widely in nature and they have been found in viruses, microorganisms, plants and animals. Lectins of plants have been isolated and characterized according to their chemical, physical-chemical, structural and biological properties. Among their biological activities, we can stress its fungicidal action. It has been previously described the effect of the lectins Dviol, DRL, ConBr and LSL obtained from the seeds of leguminous plants on the growth of yeasts isolated from vaginal secretions. In the present work the experiments were carried out in microtiter plates and the results interpreted by both methods: visual observations and a microplate reader at 530nm. The lectin concentrations varied from 0.5 to 256µg/mL, and the inoculum was established between 65-70% of trammitance. All yeast samples isolated from vaginal secretion were evaluated taxonomically, where were observed macroscopic and microscopic characteristics to each species. The LSL lectin did not demonstrate any antifungal activity to any isolate studied. The other lectins DRL, ConBr and DvioL, showed antifungal potential against yeast isolated from vaginal secretion. These findings offering offer a promising field of investigation to develop new therapeutic strategies against vaginal yeast infections, collaborating to improve women's health.

To study the interactions between a Rhizobium tropici strain and lectins isolated from the seeds of Canavalia ensiformis (ConA) and Canavalia brasiliensis (ConBr), a lectin fluorescence assay was performed. In addition, an experiment was designed to evaluate the effect of the two lectins on bacterial growth. Both lectins were found to bind to R. tropici cells, but the interactions were inhibited by D-mannose. Interestingly, only ConBr stimulated bacterial growth in proportion to the concentrations used (15.6-500 μg/mL), and the bacterial growth stimulation was inhibited by D-mannose as well. Structure/Function analyses by bioinformatics were carried out to evaluate the volume and carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) configuration of ConA and ConBr. The difference of spatial arrangement and volume of CRD may indicate the variation between biological activities of both lectins. The results suggest that ConBr could be a promising tool for studies focusing on the interactions between rhizobia and host plants.

Antimicrobial peptides, molecules produced in many different organisms, have high biocidal activity against several microorganisms. However, several questions about these molecules remain unclear. Therefore, this report details a systematic survey of the literature on the use of antimicrobial peptides against oral pathogens and indicates which peptides and microorganisms are most extensively studied. Articles were located using the PubMed and Science Direct databases with the following inclusion criteria: publication date between 2002 and 2011; keywords “biofilm OR biological film OR biological layer OR bacterial growth” AND “peptide” AND “oral cavity OR mouth OR buccal mucosa OR oral mucosa OR mouth mucosa”; and abstract in English. A total of 73 articles were selected after refinement of the data. An increase in publications focusing on the use of antimicrobial peptides against oral microorganisms was observed. In addition, the peptides produced by cells of the oral mucosa (defensins, LL-37 and histatins) as well as Streptococcus mutans (among cariogenic bacteria) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (among periodontal bacteria) were the most studied subjects. It was concluded that the use of antimicrobial peptides as a tool for microbial control is of increasing importance, likely due to its widespread use, mechanism of action, and low rates of bacterial resistance.

Introdução: Com o advento de novas pesquisas abordando o processo neoplásico, um grupo peculiar de proteínas tem sido amplamente estudado, as lectinas. Estas proteínas possuem a capacidade de se ligarem de forma reversível a carboidratos com alta especificidade. Devido às alterações no padrão glicoproteico de superfície celular durante o processo neoplásico, as lectinas se tornam uma ferramenta potencial como biomarcadores de células neoplásicas. Objetivo: Investigar a produção científica da aplicação lectinas como biomarcadores de lesões neoplásicas e potencialmente neoplásicas da cavidade oral e analisar quais grupos de lectinas e lesões orais foram mais extensamente estudados, com o objetivo final de traçar o perfil dessas publicações. Método: Realizou-se uma pesquisa de artigos científicos integrando periódicos indexados na base de dados Science Direct, Pubmed e BVS. Os critérios de inclusão estabelecidos foram: Tempo – de 1981 a 2010; Descritores – “lectin” AND “binding” AND “oral” AND “tumor”; Resumo/abstract – língua inglesa. Foi obtido um total de 108 artigos. As publicações foram avaliadas e classificadas em categorias pré-estabelecidas, como número/tipos de lesões e número/tipos de lectinas analisadas. As variáveis estudadas foram correlacionadas e o teste Qui-quadrado foi aplicado. Resultados: Houve notadamente um crescimento de estudos utilizando lectinas como biomarcadores tumorais ao longo dos anos, em que a lesão mais amplamente estudada foi o carcinoma espinocelular e a lectina mais avaliada foi a Arachis hypogea (PNA). Conclusão: Pode-se concluir que a utilização de lectinas como ferramenta de diagnóstico é de crescente importância para a pesquisa em cancerologia devido à sua aplicabilidade, versatilidade e fidedignidade de resultados. Introducción: Con el desarrollo de nuevas investigaciones sobre el proceso neoplásico, un grupo peculiar de las proteínas se ha convertido en objeto de gran atención, a saber, las lectinas. Estas proteínas tienen la capacidad de unirse de forma reversible a los carbohidratos con alta especificidad. Debido a los cambios en el patrón de glicoproteína de superficie celular durante la formación del tumor, las lectinas tienen un importante rol como marcadores biológicos de las células neoplásicas. Objetivo: Investigar la producción científica disponible sobre el uso de lectinas como marcadores biológicos de las lesiones neoplásicas y potencialmente neoplásicsa de la cavidad oral y analizar cuáles grupos de las lectinas y de las lesiones orales que han sido más estudiadas, con el objetivo final de ofrecer un perfil de las publicaciones en este campo. Método: Se llevó a cabo una investigación de artículos científicos en las bases de datos Science Direct, PubMed, y BVS. Los criterios de inclusión fueron: Tiempo - de 1981 a 2010; Descriptores - "lectin" AND "binding" AND "oral" AND "tumor"; Resumen/abstract - Inglés. Un total de 108 artículos fueron seleccionados. Las publicaciones fueron evaluadas y clasificadas en categorías predeterminadas, como número/tipos de lesión y número/tipos de lectinas analizadas. Resultados: Hubo, a lo largo de los años, un aumento notable en el número de estudios que utilizan lectinas como marcadores biológicos de tumores. La lesión más ampliamente estudiada fue el carcinoma espinocelular y la lectina mas evaluada, la Arachis hipogea (PNA). Conclusión: Es posible concluir que el uso de lectinas como herramienta de diagnóstico ha aumentado en importancia para la investigación en cancerología debido a su aplicabilidad, versatilidad y fiabilidad de resultados. Introduction: With the development of cancer research, a peculiar group of proteins has become the subject of great attention, namely the lectins. These proteins have the ability to bind reversibly to carbohydrates with high specificity. Because of changes in cell surface glycoprotein patterns during tumor formation, lectins have an important potential role as biomarkers of neoplastic cells. Objective: To review the literature available regarding the use of lectins as biomarkers of premalignant and neoplastic lesions, with a focus on oral cavity tumors, and to assess which groups of lectins and oral lesions have been most widely studied, with the final goal of providing a profile of publications in the field. Method: Articles were searched in the Science Direct, PubMed, and BVS databases. Inclusion criteria were: publication between 1981 and 2010; keywords “lectin” AND “binding” AND “oral” AND “tumor”; and English abstract. A total of 108 articles were selected. Articles were assessed and classified according to predetermined categories, especially number/types of lesion and number/types of lectin analyzed. Results were assessed using the chi-square test. Results: An increase throughout the years was observed in the number of articles studying the use of lectins as tumor biomarkers. Squamous cell carcinoma and Arachis hypogea (PNA) were the lesion and lectin more frequently assessed, respectively. Conclusion: It is possible to conclude that the use of lectins as a therapeutic tool in cancer research has been increasing in importance, probably as a result of its wide applicability, versatility, and reliability. &nbsp

Lectins constitute a class of glycoproteins, which are capable of selectively and reversibly binding to carbohydrates, distinguishing small structural differences in complex oligosaccharides. Studies have shown that the binding of lectins to cell-surface carbohydrates can lead to various effects such as cellular proliferation, histamine release and cytokine production. Canavalia brasiliensis lectin (ConBr) is a (D-mannose) D-glucose lectin. In this study, murine splenocytes were cultured to determine the effect of ConBr on cell proliferation, nitric oxide (NO) release and cytokine secretion. In addition, cellular viability assays were performed to evaluate any mitogenic activity induced by this lectin. ConBr significantly increased cell proliferation with minimal cell damage. This lectin was able to induce an increased production of cytokines such as IL-2, IL-6 and IFN-γ and a decreased production of IL- 10. The release of NO was also observed. The results of this study indicate that ConBr could potentially be used as an immunomodulator.