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Bovine mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary glands, is mainly caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. While antibiotics are the primary treatment for this disease, their effectiveness is often diminished due to resistant strains and biofilm formation, creating the need for safer and more efficient therapies. Plant-based oil therapies, particularly those derived from the genus Eugenia, are gaining popularity due to their pharmacological potential and historical use. In this study, we evaluated the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and synergistic potential of essential oils (EOs) from four species of the genus Eugenia (E. brejoensis, E. gracillima, E. pohliana, and E. stictopetala) against S. aureus isolates from bovine mastitis. The EO of E. stictopetala was obtained by hydrodistillation, and its composition was analyzed using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The experiment employed seven clinical isolates from mastitis and two control strains: ATCC 33591 (methicillin-resistant S. aureus - MRSA) and ATCC 25923 (methicillin-susceptible and biofilm producer). A broth microdilution assay was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the EOs and oxacillin. The EO of E. stictopetala contained (E)-caryophyllene (18.01%), β-pinene (8.84%), (E)-nerolidol (8.24%), and α-humulene (6.14%) as major compounds. In the MIC assay, all essential oils showed bactericidal and bacteriostatic effects, especially the species E. brejoensis and E. pohliana, which had MICs ranging from 64 to 256 µg/mL. Regarding the antibiofilm effect, all essential oils were capable of interfering with biofilm formation at subinhibitory concentrations of ½ and ¼ of the MIC. However, they did not significantly affect pre-established biofilms. Additionally, a synergistic interaction was detected between the EOs and oxacillin, with a reduction of 75-93.75% in the antimicrobial MIC. Molecular docking studies indicated that the phytochemicals β-(E)-caryophyllene, (E)-nerolidol, Δ-elemene, and α-cadinol present in the EOs formed more stable complexes with penicillin-binding proteins, indicating a possible mechanism of antibacterial action. Therefore, these results show that the essential oils of Eugenia spp. are promising sources for the development of new therapeutic methods, opening new perspectives for a more effective treatment of bovine mastitis., (© 2024. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Sociedade Brasileira de Microbiologia.)

This work aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, antibacterial activity, and intestinal and gastric protective effects, in addition to the acute toxicity of the essential oil of E. stictopetala (EOEs). ( E )-caryophyllene (18.01%), β-pinene (8.84%), and ( E )-nerolidol (8.24%), were the components found in higher content in the essential oil. The EOEs showed antioxidant capacity with IC 50 values ranging from 220.28 to 283.67 μg/mL, in addition to presenting antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli , Enterobacter aerogenes , Vibrio cholerae , Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes . The essential oil showed a gastroprotective effect, with a reduction in the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, having multiple pharmacological mechanisms of action. An antidiarrheal effect of EOEs was observed in the castor oil-induced diarrheal model, with reduced intestinal motility. Our findings demonstrate that essential oil can be beneficial in pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications for treating gastrointestinal diseases.

Neotropical cyclocephaline beetles, a diverse group of flower-loving insects, significantly impact natural and agricultural ecosystems. In particular, the genus Cyclocephala , with over 350 species, displays polymorphism and cryptic complexes. Lacking a comprehensive DNA barcoding framework, accessible tools for species differentiation are needed for research in taxonomy, ecology, and crop management. Moreover, cuticular hydrocarbons are believed to be involved in sexual recognition mechanisms in these beetles. In the present study we examined the cuticular chemical profiles of six species from the genus Cyclocephala and two populations of Erioscelis emarginata and assessed their efficiency in population, species, and sex differentiation. Overall we identified 74 compounds in cuticular extracts of the selected taxa. Linear alkanes and unsaturated hydrocarbons were prominent, with ten compounds between them explaining 85.6% of species dissimilarity. Although the cuticular chemical profiles efficiently differentiated all investigated taxa, only C. ohausiana showed significant cuticular profile differences between sexes. Our analysis also revealed two E. emarginata clades within a larger group of ' Cyclocephala' species, but they were not aligned with the two studied populations. Our research underscores the significance of cuticular lipid profiles in distinguishing selected cyclocephaline beetle species and contemplates their potential impact as contact pheromones on sexual segregation and speciation.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Croton blanchetianus Baill., popularly known as "marmeleiro preto", is an endemic plant from Brazil, being found mainly in the Northeast region. In traditional medicine, the use of medicines based on the leaves of this plant has been reported for the treatment of inflammatory processes, pain, urethral pain, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatism and headache., Aim of the Study: The present work describes the chemical characterization, as well as toxicological evaluation and antinociceptive activity of an essential oil of C. blanchetianus leaves (EOCb)., Materials and Methods: The chemical constituents of the oil were identified by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In vitro hemolytic activity was tested using mouse blood. Acute toxicity in mice was assessed by the oral or intraperitoneal administration of a single dose of 2000 mg/kg b.w. EOCb (1000 and 2000 mg/kg) was also evaluated for genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity in vivo using the micronucleus test. The antinociceptive activity of EOCb (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) was evaluated through the abdominal writhing, formalin and tail flick tests., Results: The chemical characterization indicated as major components α-pinene (21.23%), β-phelandrene (13.92%), terpinolene (13.01%) and germacrene D (10.89%). EOCb did not cause hemolysis and was also neither toxic nor genotoxic, while protected the animals' bone marrow cells from damage caused by cyclophosphamide in oral treatment. However, all animals died after 15 min of intraperitoneal treatment. There was a reduction in the number of abdominal contortions (69.43-89.41%) as well as in licks in the first (38.77-84.47%) and second (59.75-90.74%) phases of the formalin test. In the latter case, the effects were reduced by naloxone and glibenclamide, indicating action via the opioid system and blockage of K+ channels. The latency time in the tail flick test also increased significantly., Conclusion: In conclusion, ingestion of EOCb proved to be safe when administered orally; however, it was lethal intraperitoneally. Additionally, EOCb protected mouse blood cell DNA against the action of cyclophosphamide and showed an antinociceptive effect via the opioid system and dependent on K+ channels., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Amburana cearensis (Allemão) A.C. Smith is a medicinal plant with wide distribution in South America, popularly known in Brazil as "cumaru" or "amburana de cheiro". In folk medicine, in the semi-arid region of Northeastern Brazil, infusions, teas and decoctions of leaves of Amburana cearensis have their practical use for treating fever, gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation, and inflammation pain. However, none of the ethnopharmacological properties has been scientifically evaluated using volatile compounds obtained from its leaves (essential oil)., Aim of the Study: This study investigated the chemical composition, acute oral toxicity, and antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the essential oil from the leaves of A. cearensis., Material and Methods: The acute toxicity of the essential oil was investigated in mice. The antinociceptive effect was evaluated using the formalin test and, abdominal writhing induced by acetic acid, being investigated the possible mechanisms of action involved in antinociception. The acute anti-inflammatory effect was investigated through models of carrageenan-induced peritonitis, yeast-induced pyrexia, and carrageenan- and histamine-induced paw inflammation., Results: No acute toxicity was observed at doses up to 2000 mg/kg; p.o. The antinociceptive effect was statistically equal to morphine. In the formalin assay, the oil showed analgesic activity in the neurogenic and inflammatory phases, having as mechanisms the cholinergic, adenosinergic system, and ATP-sensitive potassium channels (K-ATP). In peritonitis, a reduction in TNF-α and IL-1β levels and leukocyte migration were observed. The antipyretic effect was statistically superior to dipyrone. The reduction in paw edema was statistically superior to the standard in both models., Conclusion: The results obtained not only support the traditional use of the species in inflammatory conditions and pain in folk medicine but also demonstrate that this is a rich source of phytocomponents such as germacrone, which can be used as a natural and sustainable therapeutic agent with industrial applications., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Multidrug resistance is a significant health problem worldwide, with increasing mortality rates, especially in the last few years. In this context, a consistent effort has been made to discover new antibacterial agents, and evidence points to natural products as the most promising source of bioactive compounds. This research aimed to characterize the antibacterial effect of the essential oil of Etlingera elatior (EOEE) and its major constituents against efflux pump-carrying Staphylococcus aureus strains. The essential oil was extracted from fresh inflorescences by hydrodistillation. Chemical analysis was performed using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The strains RN-4220, 1199B, IS-58, and 1199 of S. aureus were used to evaluate the antibacterial activity and the inhibition of efflux pumps. A total of 23 compounds were identified, including dodecanal and 1-dodecanol as major compounds. EOEE and dodecanal showed weak activity against the strains, while 1-dodecanol inhibited bacterial growth at low concentrations, indicating strong antibacterial activity. In addition, this compound potentiated the activity of norfloxacin against S. aureus 1199. In conclusion, 1-dodecanol was identified as the most effective compound of EOEE, showing significant potential to be used in antibacterial drug development., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financialinterestsor personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Cereus jamacaru is a cactus distributed in Northeastern Brazil, with high symbolic value to this region. However, the interaction, behavior and the role of pollinators remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate the reproductive biology, addressing the ecological significance of floral attributes, including details about floral signaling. The study was carried at three areas of the Caatinga, in 2015, 2017 and 2021. We analyzed the floral morphometry, volume and concentration of the nectar, and characterized the colour and scent of flowers. Additionally, we described the pollinator behavior and performed controlled pollination experiments. The 'Mandacaru' is self-incompatible, has nocturnal anthesis and the nectar is accumulated as droplets in a long hypanthial tube. The flowers have a reflective pattern with a dark outer surface and a white inner surface. (E)-nerolidol is the major component (87.4%) of its floral perfume. We registered the sphingid moth Cocytius antaeus visiting the flowers. The floral attributes, attractants and rewards drives to a sphingophily, and the pollination treatments showed the dependence to fruit set by C. antaeus, the pollinator registered. In this case, if the apparent lack of pollinator diversity encompasses its entire range, the loss of the hawkmoth could severely impact the reproductive success of the cactus.

This study evaluated the effects of acute exposure of Aedes aegypti third instar (L 3 ) larvae to the saline extract of Opuntia ficus-indica cladodes on the biological cycle and fertility of the emerging adults. For this, larvae were treated for 24 h with the extract at ¼ LC 50 (lethal concentration to kill 50% of larvae), ½ LC 50 or LC 50 ; the development and reproduction of the emerged adults were evaluated after a recovery period of 9 days. The resistance of proteins in the extract to hydrolysis by L 3 digestive enzymes and histomorphological alterations in the larval midgut were also investigated. The extract contained lectin, flavonoids, cinnamic derivatives, terpenes, steroids, and reducing sugars. It showed a LC 50 of 3.71% for 48 h. The data indicated mean survival times similar in control and extract treatments. It was observed development delay in extract-treated groups, with a lower number of adults than in control. However, the females that emerged laid similar number of eggs in control and treatments. Histological evaluation revealed absence of bacterial and fungal microorganisms in the food content in midguts from larvae treated with cladode extract. Electrophoresis revealed that three polypeptides in the extract resisted to hydrolysis by L 3 digestive proteases for 90 min. The lectin activity was not altered even after 24-h incubation with the enzymes. In conclusion, the extract from O. ficus-indica can delay the development of Ae. aegypti larvae, which may be linked to induction of an axenic environment at larval midgut and permanence of lectin activity even after proteolysis., (© 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

The current trichomoniasis treatment is restrict to 5-nitroimidazole drugs and the emergence of resistant isolates points the need for new therapeutical alternatives. In this study the anti- Trichomonas vaginalis activity of essential oils obtained from Myrtaceae occurring in Caatinga, a plant family with potential antiparasitic activity, was showed. The essential oils varied in their capacity to kill ATCC and fresh clinical T. vaginalis isolates, which was associated with heterogeneity and different patterns of endosymbiosis. Essential oils caused moderate to strong cytotoxicity against mammalian cells, but essential oil of Eugenia pohliana (EOEp) exhibited promising selectivity index towards vaginal epithelial cells. A checkerboard assay revealed a synergistic effect when EOEp and metronidazole were associated, indicating different mechanisms of action. The GC/MS analysis demonstrated the volatile composition of EOEp, with δ-cadinene as majoritary component. This molecule seems to contribute to the trichomonacidal effect and shows potential for the prospection of new antiparasitic compounds.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Eugenia gracillima is widely used by the population in the manufacture of pulps and jellies, with popular reports of its use in the treatment of infections in the urinary system, respiratory and dermatological problems. A previous study reports that EO from E. gracillima leaves proved to be a promising antioxidant agent in combating the promastigote forms of protozoa. Despite this, this species has been little studied due to its pharmacological properties., Study Objective: In this study, an essential oil extracted (EO) from Eugenia gracillima leaves was evaluated for its acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and behavioral effects in mice., Methods: The EO was obtained by hydrodistillation, and the composition analysis was performed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Acute toxicity assessment was performed with observation of hematological parameters and histopathological evaluation, as well as tests to investigate antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory activities and behavioral effects., Results: Chromatographic analysis showed D-germacrene (16.10%), γ-muurolene-g (15.60%) and bicyclogermacrene (8.53%) as the majority of compounds. In the toxicity evaluation, no death or physiological changes were observed in mice treated with a single oral dose of up to 5000 mg/kg, and it did not lyse erythrocytes in vitro. The hematological parameters evaluated were not changed after treatment; however, 5,000 mg/kg promoted an increase in transaminase levels. In the histopathological evaluation, only the animals that received the dose of 5000 mg/kg showed discrete leukocyte infiltration around the centrilobular vein in the liver. Antinociceptive activity was detected through tests of acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin, and tail flick, promoted in part by the opioid receptor pathway. In the evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity, a reduction in inflammation was observed in the paw edema test and a decrease in the migration of leukocytes and neutrophils in the peritonitis test. The open field and elevated plus maze tests showed that EO did not affect the animals' motor functions or exploratory activity., Conclusion: It was concluded that the essential oil of E. gracillima has potential for the development of pharmaceutical formulations with analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions in non-toxic concentrations., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Eugenia pohliana DC.(Myrtaceae) is used in folk medicine by communities in Brazil. However, there are no reports on its biological activity. This is the first study to identify the components of E. pohliana essential oil (EpEO) and evaluate their antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in an in vivo model at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg. The essential oil (EO) was obtained by hydrodistillation, and the analysis was performed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Antinociceptive activity was evaluated by writhing tests, tail movement, and formalin (neurogenic and inflammatory pain); naloxone was used to determine the nociception mechanism. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by oedema and peritonitis tests. We found that (E)-β-caryophyllene (BCP) (15.56%), δ-cadinene (11.24%) and α-cadinol (10.89%) were the major components. In the writhing test, there was a decrease in writing by 42.95-70.70%, in the tail movement, an increase in latency time by 69.12-86.63%, and in the formalin test, there was a reduction in pain neurogenic by 29.54-61.74%, and inflammatory pain by 37.42-64.87%. The antinociceptive effect of EpEO occurs through the activation of opioid receptors. In addition, a reduction in inflammation by 74.93‒81.41% was observed in the paw edema test and inhibition of the influx of leukocytes by 51.86‒70.38% and neutrophils by 37.74‒54.72% in the peritonitis test. It was concluded that EpEO has antinociceptive effect by the opioid pathway, as shown by the inhibitory effect of naloxone, and anti-inflammatory actions, and that its use does not cause hemolytic damage or behavioral change., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

The purpose of this study was to analyses the influence of seasonal variation on the chemical composition and antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities of the essential oil (EO) extracted from the leaves of Eugenia pohliana. Chemical characterization of the samples - by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry - found 35 and 38 components for summer and winter, respectively, of the EO from E. pohliana leaves, totaling 47 different compounds. Analysis of antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS and TAC) revealed that the summer EO showed greater free radical scavenging capacity than the winter. Similarly, the summer EO exhibited superior antimicrobial potential (MIC=128-512 μg/mL and MMC=128-1024 μg/mL, compared to the winter EO (128-2048 μg/mL and 256-2048 μg/mL, respectively). Results showed that both oils had a low potential to cause hemolysis. This study provides new scientific evidence on the influence of seasonality on the pharmacological properties of E. pohliana leaves and its potential for the development of herbal medicines., (© 2022 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

Myrciaria pilosa is a tree species of the Brazilian Caatinga biome. This paper is the first report on the chemical composition and the antimicrobial and antivirulence activities of essential oil extracted from its leaves. The oil was extracted by hydrodistillation. Chemical composition determined by GC-MS and CG-FID revealed 63 compounds; the sesquiterpenes guaiol (13.17%) and (E)-β-caryophyllene (11.26%) dominated. Antimicrobial activity against strains of Staphylococcus aureus was evaluated by the broth microdilution method. It showed minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 5 μg/mL against evaluated strains and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) ranging from 10 to 20 μg/mL. Evaluation of antivirulence activity showed reductions of 92.0% and 47.2%, respectively, in haemolytic action and production of staphyloxanthin. These findings show that the essential oil of M. pilosa has potential as an antimicrobial drug to control infection by multi-resistant strains of S. aureus .

Background: Sitophilus zeamais is one of the most economically impactful pests, attacking various grains and processed foods. Control of this insect has been achieved using synthetic insecticides, exacerbated and careless use of which has led to the development of resistant insect populations, toxicity to non-target organisms and environmental contamination. In this study, Piper corcovadensis leaf essential oil (PcLEO) and its major compound, 1-butyl-3,4-methylenedioxybenzene (BMDB), were investigated as alternative insecticidal agents against S. zeamais., Results: Characterization of PcLEO showed the presence of 40 compounds. The major components were the phenylpropanoid BMDB (35.77%) and the monoterpenes α-pinene (14.95%) and terpinolene (6.23%). PcLEO and BMDB were toxic by fumigation (half-maximal lethal concentration [LC 50 ]: 9.46 and 0.85 μl L -1 of air, respectively), by contact (half-maximal lethal dose [LD 50 ]: 9.38 and 6.16 μg g -1 of insect, respectively) and ingestion (LC 50 : 16.04 and 14.30 mg g -1 , respectively). In the ingestion test, both PcLEO and BMDB promoted the loss of insect biomass and had a strong deterrent effect. In addition, both were able to inhibit trypsin and α-amylase activities., Conclusion: PcLEO and BMDB exhibited insecticidal activity against S. zeamais, with a toxic effect by fumigation, contact and ingestion, in addition to food deterrence and inhibiting trypsin and α-amylase activities, suggesting their potential for use in the control of this pest., (© 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.)

This work aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antimicrobial activity, synergistic effect, and structure changes of the essential oil of Hymenaea rubriflora (EOHr). Forty-five constituents were identified in the essential oil, corresponding to 94.43% of the compounds present, being the main components E-Caryophyllene (36.72 ± 1.05%), Germacrene D (16.13 ± 0.31%), α-Humulene (6.06 ± 0.16%), β-elemene (5.61 ± 0.14%) and δ-Cadinene (3.76 ± 0.07%). Antimicrobial activity was evaluated, presenting antibacterial and antifungal activity with MIC ranging from 0.62 to 40 μL/mL. The essential oil had a synergistic effect when combined with gentamicin and fluconazole. Structural changes were also evaluated and it was possible to observe that EOHr action was related to changes in membrane permeability. The findings obtained here suggest that the use of the essential oil of H. rubriflora in the treatment of infectious diseases presents a potential for the future development of pharmaceutical products.

The measures currently used to minimize the spread of arboviruses, comprising dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika virus, involve controlling the size of population of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. However, the search for formulations containing new insecticides is gaining pace due to reports of mosquito populations showing resistance to commonly used compounds. In this study, tablets containing a protein fraction of Moringa oleifera seeds enriched in the WSMoL lectin, known to show larvicidal and ovicidal activities against A. aegypti, were developed. The compatibility between the fraction and the excipients used in obtaining the tablets was evaluated by thermogravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) absorption spectroscopy. The larvicidal and ovicidal activities of the resulting tablets [5%, 10%, and 15% (w/w) of the fraction] were evaluated, as well as their effect on mosquito oviposition. Assays were also performed using a placebo tablet. According to the TG, DSC, and FTIR results, the protein composition of the fraction did not change when mixed with the components of the formulation. Tablets containing 10% and 15% WSMoL-rich fraction caused mortality of 42.5% and 95% of the larvae after 48 h, respectively, with larvae incubated with these tablets showing reduced acetylcholinesterase activity. All tablets inhibited egg hatching after 72 h (36-74%), and tablets containing 15% fraction were found to exert a repellent effect on oviposition. Our results show that the formulation developed in this study interfered with the life cycle of A. aegypti, and thus show potential for use in the control of this mosquito., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Several monoecious species of palms have developed complex strategies to promote cross-pollination, including the production of large quantities of floral resources and the emission of scents that are attractive to pollinators. Syagrus coronata constitutes an interesting model with which to understand the evolution of plant reproductive strategies in a monoecious species adapted to seasonally dry forests. We monitored blooming phenology over 1 year, during which we also collected and identified floral visitors and putative pollinators. We identified potential floral visitor attractants by characterizing the scent composition of inflorescences as well as of peduncular bracts, during both male and female phases, and the potential for floral thermogenesis. Syagrus coronata produces floral resources throughout the year. Its inflorescences are predominantly visited by a diverse assortment of small-sized beetles, whose richness and abundance vary throughout the different phases of anthesis. We did not find evidence of floral thermogenesis. A total of 23 volatile compounds were identified in the scent emitted by the inflorescences, which did not differ between male and female phases; whereas the scent of the peduncular bracts was composed of only 4-methyl guaiacol, which was absent in inflorescences. The composition of floral scent chemistry indicates that this palm has evolved strategies to be predominantly pollinated by small-sized weevils. Our study provides rare evidence of a non-floral scent emitting structure involved in pollinator attraction, only the second such case specifically in palms. The peculiarities of the reproductive strategy of S. coronata might play an important role in the maintenance of pollination services and pollen dispersion., (© 2020 German Society for Plant Sciences and The Royal Botanical Society of the Netherlands.)

The mosquito Aedes aegypti L. is a vector transmitting diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika virus fever. The water-soluble lectin from Moringa oleifera Lam. seeds (WSMoL) is larvicidal, ovicidal and can stimulate oviposition in A. aegypti. This study aimed to investigate whether WSMoL could bind to membrane proteins from A. aegypti legs. Initially, proteins from the legs were extracted using sodium deoxycholate, digitonin, dodecyl sodium sulfate (SDS) or Triton X-100. The protein concentration was found to be higher in the extract obtained using Triton X-100, which was applied to a WSMoL-Sepharose column. The adsorbed proteins were evaluated using gel filtration chromatography and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) in presence of SDS. The similarity in the sequences of adsorbed proteins with those available in databases was determined. The proteins adsorbed on the matrix were eluted forming a single peak. Gel filtration chromatography and SDS-PAGE revealed the presence of proteins with molecular masses of approximately 20 kDa and polypeptide bands of 17.0 and 23.7 kDa, respectively. MS/MS analysis indicated similarity between these proteins and ABC carriers, which are expressed in the legs of mosquitos. WSMoL could bind to membrane proteins in the legs of A. aegypti females and induce oviposition through these interactions., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Aedes aegypti control is a key component of the prophylaxis of dengue fever and other diseases. Moringa oleifera seeds contain a water-soluble lectin (WSMoL) with larvicidal and ovicidal activities against this insect. In this study, A. aegypti individuals were exposed at the third larval instar for 24 h to the water extract (0.1-1.0 mg/mL of protein) or lectin-rich fraction (0.05-0.6 mg/mL of protein) containing WSMoL, and then their survival and development were followed for 9 days post-exposure. The feeding capacity of adult females that developed from the treated larvae and the hatching success of eggs laid by them were also evaluated. Further, any alterations to the midgut histology of treated larvae, pupae, and adults were investigated. The extract and fraction induced the death of A. aegypti larvae along the post-exposure period. Both preparations also delayed the developmental cycle. The midguts of treated larvae and pupae showed disorganization and epithelial vacuolization, while in treated adults, the epithelium was underdeveloped compared to control. Unlike in control mosquitos, proliferating cells were not detected in treated larvae, and appeared in lower numbers in treated pupae than in control pupae. Adult females that developed from larvae treated with the fraction gained less weight after a blood meal compared with control. The amount of eggs laid by females that developed from larvae treated with both the extract and fraction was significantly lower than in control. In addition, the eggs showed lower hatching rates. In conclusion, females that developed from larvae treated with both the water extract and lectin-rich fraction showed reduced engorgement after a blood meal, with the consequent impairment of their fertility and fecundity. These results were probably due to the damage to midgut organization and impairment of the remodeling process during metamorphosis., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Different enantiomers of chiral compounds within floral perfumes usually trigger distinct responses in insects; however, this has frequently been neglected in studies investigating semiochemicals in plant-pollinator interactions. Approximately 1000 neotropical plants produce floral perfumes as the only reward for pollinators, i.e. male euglossine bees. The chiral compound carvone epoxide is a key component of the scent bouquet of many perfume-rewarding plants that are pollinated by males of Eulaema. Here, we tested the biological activity of the four carvone epoxide stereoisomers to four Eulaema species occurring in the Atlantic Rainforest of NE-Brazil. We determined the stereochemistry of carvone epoxide in the floral scent of several Catasetum species, tested whether the antennae of bees respond differentially to these stereoisomers and investigated if there is a behavioural preference for any of the stereoisomers. We found that 1) Catasetum species emit only the (-)-trans-stereoisomer of carvone epoxide, 2) for E. atleticana and E. niveofasciata antennal responses to the (-)-trans-carvone epoxide were significantly stronger than those to (-)-cis-carvone epoxide, 3) the strength and pattern of antennal responses to all 4 stereoisomers (separately tested) did not differ among Eulaema species, and 4) there were significant differences in attractiveness of the four stereoisomers to the bees species with the (-)-trans-stereoisomer being particularly attractive. We assume (-)-trans-carvone epoxide to be the dominant isomer in perfume-rewarding plants pollinated by Eulaema. The universal occurrence of carvone epoxide in Catasetum species pollinated by Eulaema, suggests that this compound has evolved in perfume-rewarding as a specific attractant for Eulaema bees as pollinators.

This work aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antimicrobial, antinociceptive, acute toxicity and antioxidant activity of the essential oil of Algrizea minor (EOAm). The essential oil presented as the major constituents β-Pinene (56.99%), α-Pinene (16.57%), Germacrene D (4.67%), Bicyclogermacrene (4.66%), (E)-Caryophyllene (3.76%) and Limonene (1.71%). It was verified that the essential oil did not show acute toxicity in the maximum dose of 5,000 mg/kg. In the evaluation of the antinociceptive activity it was verified that the essential oil reduced in 65.84% the number of writhing in the mice, reducing the pain in 59.17%, and the mechanism of action in pain reduction was opioid, similar to morphine. The essential oil also presented significant antimicrobial against Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi, and the antioxidant activity was relevant. Therefore, these results demonstrate the great potential for the future development of pharmaceutical products with the essential oil of Algrizea minor (EOAm).

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Northeast Brazilian ethnoveterinary studies associated with the medicinal use of zootherapies have shown that ruminants' body fat such as sheep (Ovis aries), goats (Capra hircus) and cows (Bos taurus) are used in diseases affecting domestic animals., Aim of the Study: The objective of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the fixed oils from these ruminants in isolation and in association with antibiotics., Results: Ovis aries (OFOA), Capra hircus (OFCH) and Bos taurus (OFBT) fixed oils were extracted using a Soxhlet apparatus with hexane as the solvent. Through the use of gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) the methyl esters from the ruminants' fixed oils were obtained and the fatty acids present in these oils were indirectly determined. The OFOA, OFCH and OFBT antibacterial and antibiotic modifying activities against standard and multi-resistant bacterial strains were carried out using the broth microdilution test. The fixed oils from these species did not present antibacterial activity when tested in isolation, obtaining Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MICs) values ≥ 1024 μg/mL. However, when associated with antibiotics, OFBT and OFCH showed a synergistic activity for the Amicacin, Amoxicillin, Norfloxacin and Oxytetracycline antibiotics., Conclusion: The OFOA promoted a synergistic action for the same antibiotics with the exception of Norfloxacin., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The Alpinia purpurata inflorescence contains a lectin (ApuL), which has immunomodulatory activities on human cells. In the present work, it was evaluated the antibacterial and antifungal effects of ApuL against human pathogens. ApuL showed bacteriostatic activity against non-resistant (UFPEDA-02) and an oxacillin-resistant isolate (UFPEDA-672) of Staphylococcus aureus with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC 50 ) of 50 and 400 μg/mL, respectively. In addition, it showed bactericidal effect on the non-resistant isolate (minimal bactericidal concentration: 200 μg/mL). For Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis, ApuL showed fungistatic effect (MIC 50 : 200 and 400 μg/mL, respectively). The lectin was able to impair the viability of the microorganism cells, as indicated by propidium iodide (PI) staining. Analysis of growth curves, protein leakage, and ultrastructural changes supported that ApuL acts through distinct mechanisms on S. aureus isolates. Ultrastructural analysis of ApuL-treated Candida cells revealed malformations with elongations and bulges. ApuL-oxacillin combination showed synergistic effect on the oxacillin-resistant isolates UFPEDA-670 and 671, which were not sensitive to lectin alone. Synergism was also detected for ApuL-ceftazidime against a multidrug-resistant isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Synergistic action of ApuL-fluconazole was detected for C. parapsilosis, which was insensitive to the drug alone. Biofilm formation by S. aureus non-resistant isolate and C. albicans was remarkably inhibited by ApuL at sub-inhibitory concentrations. In conclusion, ApuL showed differential effects on non-resistant and resistant bacterial isolates, was active against Candida species, and showed synergistic action in combination with antibiotics., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: 2-Alkyl-3-methoxypyrazines (MPs) are naturally occurring aromatic compounds involved in insect chemical communication as both pheromones and allelochemicals. Although rarely characterized in floral scents, they have been identified as major constituents in headspace samples from palm inflorescences and evidence pointed towards their function as attractive cues for scent-oriented pollinators, as well as florivores. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of MPs in economically exploitable palms belonging to Acrocomia and Attalea through headspace floral scent analysis and assessed their role in the selective attraction of flower-feeding cyclocephaline scarabs (Melolonthidae, Cyclocephalini) in field bioassays conducted in Brazil and Colombia., Results: Three different MPs were identified among floral headspace samples of Acrocomia aculeata, Acr. intumescens, Attalea butyracea and Att. insignis: 2-isopropyl-3-methoxypyrazine (IPMP), 2-isobutyl-3-methoxypyrazine (IBMP) and 2-(sec-butyl)-3-methoxypyrazine (SBMP). Their combined estimated total scent emissions per inflorescence ranged from 246 μg h -1 to 6.2 mg h -1 . Scented traps, individually baited with either IPMP or SBMP, resulted in species-selective and high yield captures of Cyclocephala amazona and C. distincta, known florivores associated with over 20 different species of Neotropical palms., Conclusions: The identification of MPs as potent kairomones could prove instrumental in integrated pest management plans for these insects in emerging oil-yielding crops in South America, including those of the wine palm (Att. butyracea) and macaw palms (Acrocomia spp.). © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry., (© 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.)

The evaluation of ecotoxicity of mosquito larvicidal agents (such as the water-soluble lectin from Moringa oleifera seeds, WSMoL) is an essential step to establish the guidelines for their use. In this sense, this work evaluated the toxicity of WSMoL to Danio rerio embryos and larvae. Embryos were exposed to waterborne WSMoL (0.0125-0.2 mg mL -1 ) for 96 h and lethal and sub-lethal effects were observed every 24 h. In the bioassays with larvae, the individuals were exposed to the WSMoL (0.025-0.2 mg mL -1 ), mortality was recorded daily, and larval swimming velocities were analyzed after 72 h and 168 h of exposure. Additionally, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity of larvae was determined after 168 h of exposure. WSMoL LC 50 values to embryos were 0.190, 0.133 and 0.049 mg mL -1 after 48, 72 and 96 h, respectively. No toxic endpoint was observed after exposure for 24 h. In addition, hatching was delayed and larval length at 96 h was reduced compared to the control. WSMoL LC 50 to larvae were 0.21 and 0.135 mg mL -1 , after 24 h and 96 h, respectively. Larvae exposed to 0.1 and 0.2 mg mL -1 showed a decrease in swimming speed and a significant reduction in AChE activity. In conclusion, WSMoL at waterborne concentrations needed for its use as a larvicide to A. aegypti causes lethal and sublethal effects to zebrafish embryos and larvae. Therefore, its use in waterbodies where there are non-target organisms is not recommended., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background : The biotechnological potential of medicinal plants from Brazilian Caatinga and the Atlantic Forest has not been extensively studied. Thus, screening programs are important in prospecting for compounds for developing new drugs. The purpose of this study was to determine the chemical composition and to evaluate the anti- Candida activity of essential oils from leaves of Hymenaea courbaril var. courbaril , Myroxylon peruiferum , and Vismia guianensis . Methods : The oils were extracted through hydrodistillation and their chemical compositions were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Antifungal activity against C. albicans , C. tropicalis , C. parapsilosis , C. glabrata , and C. krusei was evaluated by determining the minimal inhibitory (MIC) and fungicidal (MFC) concentrations. Results : The major compounds of the oils were caryophyllene oxide and trans -caryophyllene for H. courbaril ; spathulenol, α-pinene, and caryophyllene oxide for M. peruiferum ; and caryophyllene oxide and humulene epoxide II for V. guianensis oil. The oils showed antifungal activity against all the strains tested, and the MIC values ranged between 0.625 and 1.25 μL/mL and MFC from 0.625 to 2.5 μL/mL. Conclusion : The essential oils from the species studied have the potential to be evaluated as clinical applications in the treatment of candidiasis., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Catasetum is a neotropical orchid genus that comprises about 160 dioecious species with a remarkable sexual dimorphism in floral morphology. Flowers of Catasetum produce perfumes as rewards, which are collected only by male euglossine bees. Currently, floral scents are known to be involved in the selective attraction of specific euglossine species. However, sexual dimorphism in floral scent and its eventual role in the pollination of Catasetum species have never been investigated. Here, we have investigated the pollination of Catasetum uncatum and asked: (1) Is floral scent a sexual dimorphic trait? (2) Does pollinarium removal/deposition affect scent emission? (3) Does sexual dimorphism in floral scent and changed scent emission have implications with regard to the behaviour of the pollinators? The frequency and behaviour of floral visitors were observed in non-manipulated flowers (both flower sexes) and in manipulated flowers (pistillate only) in which pollinaria were deposited. Scents of staminate and pistillate flowers (both manipulated and non-manipulated) were collected by using dynamic headspace methods and analysed chemically. Electrophysiological analyses were performed to detect compounds triggering antennal depolarisation in the euglossine species. C. uncatum is pollinated mainly by males of Euglossa nanomelanotricha. Pollinators were more frequent in pistillate than in staminate inflorescences. Bees approaching staminate flowers frequently flew away without visiting them, a behavioural pattern not observed in pistillate flowers. In the chemical analyses, we recorded 99 compounds, 31 of which triggered antennal depolarisation in pollinators. Multivariate analyses with the electrophysiological-active compounds did not detect differences between the scent composition of staminate and pistillate flowers. Pollinarium removal or deposition resulted in diminished scent emission within 24h in staminate and pistillate flowers, respectively. Surprisingly, bees discriminated pollinated from non-pollinated pistillate flowers as early as 2h after pollination. The rapid loss in the attractiveness of flowers following pollinarium removal/deposition can be interpreted as a strategy to direct pollinators to non-pollinated flowers. We have found no evidence that euglossine males discriminate staminate from pistillate flowers by means of floral scent. Instead, we speculate that bees use visual cues, such as sex dimorphic traits, to discriminate flowers of different sexes. Together, our results provide interesting insights into the evolution of floral signals in gender-dimorphic species and into its significance in plant reproductive biology., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Night-blooming water lilies are characterized by intense emission of floral VOCs. Their unique scent-oriented pollinators, cyclocephaline scarabs (Scarabaeidae, Cyclocephalini), are attracted to flowers that they use as reliable sources of food and as mating aggregation sites. Chemical analysis of floral scent samples of seven species of Nymphaea subg. Hydrocallis established remarkably simple fragrant blends, each of which was dominated by one or two prominent compounds that alone accounted for over 95% of total scent emission. A total of 22 VOCs were identified: aliphatics (9), C5-branched chain compounds (5) and aromatics (8). Anisole was the dominant constituent in the floral scents of Nymphaea amazonum subsp. amazonum, N. amazonum subsp. pedersenii and N. tenerinervia, whereas (methoxymethyl)benzene was the most abundant VOC in samples of N. lasiophylla and N. lingulata. Flowers of N. rudgeana and N. gardneriana emitted high amounts of methyl hexanoate and methyl 2-methylbutanoate. Comparisons of floral VOC composition including other day- and night-blooming species of Nymphaea and Victoria obtained from the literature evidenced disparities related to habitus. While flowers of day-blooming species mostly emit aromatic alcohols and ethers, nocturnal species are particularly rich in aromatic ethers, aliphatic esters and C5-branched chain esters. These findings strongly suggest that the floral scent composition within closely related Nymphaea and Victoria is linked to pollinator selection, and the putative role of floral VOCs in pollinator attractiveness is discussed., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)