The role of Qualea multiflora on Mammary Tumour Cells and Immune System

• Published in: Journal of applied pharmaceutical science 2013-09, Vol.3 (9), p.8-013
• Main Authors: de A, Camila B, Quilles, Marcela Bassi, Vilegas, Wagner, Carlos, Iracilda Z
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2231-3354; 2231-3354
• DOI: 10.7324/JAPS.2013.3902

Species of the genus Qualea are used by the Brazilian public as a natural anti-inflammatory. Based on this evidence, we evaluated the effects of terpene fractions (I super(2)F and TF) obtained from Qualea multiflora on nitric oxide production (Griess assay), cytokines (IL-1, IL-10, IL-12, and TNF-I plus or minus ) and the transcription factor NF-kB by peritoneal macrophages. Since there is a relationship between inflammation and cancer, the cytotoxicity of I super(2)F and TF against mammary tumoural cell lineage, and macrophages was evaluated. Inhibition levels close to 90% of the production of NO, IL-1, IL-12 and TNF-I plus or minus ; about 32% of NF-kB; and a large stimulation of IL-10 production (close to the positive control) by peritoneal macrophages were observed in response to I super(2)F and TF which are correlated with anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, the samples showed exceptional cytotoxic activity against tumoural cells but not against macrophages. Since anti-inflammatory activity is important in tumour inhibition, further examination of potential anti-cancerous activity of Qualea multiflora is warranted.