A phytotherapeutic candidate for neuropathic pain: Helicteres ovata (Lam.) extract shows antinociceptive effects and favorable acute toxicity profile.
Helicteres ovata extract shows promise in reducing pain in murine models, but further research is needed to determine its effects in humans.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the lixisenatide corpusSummary and findings
This study investigated the antinociceptive effects of a 60% hydroethanolic extract of Helicteres ovata in murine models of paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain. The extract reduced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in a dose-dependent manner. No adverse effects were detected in the acute toxicity model.
Abstract
<h4>Ethnopharmacological relevance</h4>Helicteres ovata is a native Brazilian species belonging to a genus traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory and pain-related disorders. However, its pharmacological studies remain scarce.<h4>Aim of the study</h4>This study investigated the phytochemical profile, inorganic composition, antinociceptive activity, and safety of a 60% hydroethanolic extract of Helicteres ovata in murine models of paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain.<h4>Materials and methods</h4>Phytochemical dereplication was performed using UPLC-ESI-TOF-MS/MS, and elemental analysis via ICP-MS. Antinociceptive effects were evaluated using hot plate and von Frey assays in paclitaxel-sensitized mice. Opioid and cannabinoid pathways involvement was assessed using naltrexone and AM251, respectively. TNF-α and CXCL-1 modulation was determined in central and peripheral tissues. Histological and morphometric analyses were conducted on the sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglia. Cytotoxicity was assessed via the Artemia salina lethality assay, and acute oral toxicity was evaluated in BALB/c mice (2000 mg/kg).<h4>Results</h4>The extract contained flavonoids, xanthones, phenolic acids, and essential minerals including potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It reduced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in a dose-dependent manner. Its antinociceptive effect was attenuated by naltrexone and AM251, indicating opioid and cannabinoid pathways involvment. The extract modulated pro-inflammatory cytokine and preserved neural morphology. Moderate cytotoxicity was observed at 48 h in A. salina, but no adverse effects were detected in acute toxicity model.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Helicteres ovata extract exhibits significant antiallodynic effect in chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain, mediated by inflammatory and neuromodulatory pathways. It is well tolerated in vivo and holds promise as a phytotherapeutic candidate for neuropathic pain management.
Background
Helicteres ovata is traditionally used in Brazil for inflammatory and pain-related disorders, but pharmacological studies on this species are limited. Understanding its phytochemical profile and potential therapeutic effects is important for exploring new treatments for neuropathic pain. This study aims to fill that gap by investigating the extract's antinociceptive activity and safety profile in a relevant animal model.
Methods
The study utilized a 60% hydroethanolic extract of Helicteres ovata and evaluated its effects in murine models of paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain. Phytochemical analysis was performed using UPLC-ESI-TOF-MS/MS, and antinociceptive effects were assessed through hot plate and von Frey assays. The study also examined the involvement of opioid and cannabinoid pathways and conducted histological analyses on the sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglia.
Results
The extract demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. The antinociceptive effect was attenuated by naltrexone and AM251, indicating involvement of opioid and cannabinoid pathways. Cytotoxicity was moderate at 48 hours in the Artemia salina assay, while no adverse effects were observed in the acute toxicity model at a dose of 2000 mg/kg.
Interpretation
The findings suggest that Helicteres ovata extract may have potential as a phytotherapeutic candidate for neuropathic pain, although the clinical significance of the observed effects remains to be established. The study's reliance on murine models and the absence of human data limit the applicability of the results. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and assess their relevance in clinical settings.
Key findings
- Reduced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in a dose-dependent manner.
- Moderate cytotoxicity observed at 48 h in A. salina.
- No adverse effects detected in acute toxicity model at 2000 mg/kg.
Limitations
- Based on murine models, which may not fully translate to humans.
- Moderate cytotoxicity observed in A. salina.
- No human data reported.