In conclusion the anti-inflammatory effect induced by guaco extract may be by inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine production at the inflammatory site.

Morinda citrifolia L. (noni) has been shown to treat different disorders. However, data concerning its role in the treatment of intestinal inflammation still require clarification. In the current study, we investigated the effects of noni fruit juice (NFJ) in the treatment of C57BL/6 mice, which were continuously exposed to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) for 9 consecutive days. NFJ consumption had no impact on the reduction of the clinical signs of the disease or on weight loss. Nonetheless, when a dilution of 1 : 10 was used, the intestinal architecture of the mice was preserved, accompanied by a reduction in the inflammatory infiltrate. Regardless of the concentration of NFJ, a decrease in both the activity of myeloperoxidase and the key inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IFN-γ, was also observed in the intestine. Furthermore, when NFJ was diluted 1 : 10 and 1 : 100, a reduction in the production of nitric oxide and IL-17 was detected in gut homogenates. Overall, the treatment with NFJ was effective in different aspects associated with disease progression and worsening. These results may point to noni fruit as an important source of anti-inflammatory molecules with a great potential to inhibit the progression of inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Morinda citrifolia L. (noni) has been indicated to treat a variety of disorders; however, important aspects surrounding the consumption of products derived from noni still require clarification. We investigated the immune-related effects produced by the consumption of noni fruit juice by C57BL/6 mice. In the intestine, IL-4 and IL-10 levels were reduced following consumption of the fruit juice at a 1:100 dilution. However, when the highest concentrations were administered, IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-12 levels increased in this organ. Similarly, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-12, IL-4, IL-23 and IL-10 levels increased in the liver. In the kidney, IL-12 production decreased following consumption of the juice at a 1:100 dilution. In the intestine, only a mild edema was observed followed by the consumption of noni fruit juice at the highest concentrations. Overall, noni fruit juice consumption did not cause any significant disturbances in liver or kidney outside of immune modulation.

ObjectivesThe Mikania laevigata extract (MLE) (popularly known in Brazil as "guaco") possesses anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study we tested the effects of MLE in a periodontitis experimental model in rats. We also investigated possible mechanisms underlying such effects. Material and MethodsPeriodontal disease was induced by a ligature placed around the mandibular first molars of each animal. Male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: non-ligated animals treated with vehicle; non-ligated animals treated with MLE (10 mg/kg, daily); ligature-induced animals treated with vehicle and ligature-induced animals treated with MLE (10 mg/kg, daily). Thirty days after the induction of periodontal disease, the animals were euthanized and mandibles and gingival tissues removed for further analysis. ResultsMorphometric analysis of alveolar bone loss demonstrated that MLE-treated animals presented a decreased alveolar bone loss and a lower expression of the activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) measured by immunohistochemistry. Moreover, gingival tissues from the MLE-treated group showed decreased neutrophil migration myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay. ConclusionsThese results indicate that MLE may be useful to control bone resorption during progression of experimental periodontitis in rats.

An afforestation of mixed plantation was proposed to provide wood supply and minimise exploratory actions in a biological reserve. Eucalyptus plants were indicated for this purpose. This study was carried out to test the effect of volatile oils extracted from the leaves of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn. and E. grandis Hill ex Maiden on the growth of Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong. Under laboratory conditions, the Enterolobium plants showed tolerance to E. grandis oil, whereas E. camaldulensis oil caused loss of leaves, inhibition of height and diameter growth and a concomitant decrease in effective PSII quantum yield and the reduction of photosynthetic electron-transport chains. The field growth of E. contortisiliquum was not modified by intercropped E. grandis plants, confirming its tolerance. Inoculation with rhizobia and or mycorrhizal fungi significantly improved the height and diameter growth of these species. The results showed that E. contortisiliquum plants could be intercropped with E. grandis for reforestation and agroforestry systems.