Propriedades toxicológicas e imunomoduladoras de proteínas laticíferas de Calotropis procera

Abstract

Calotropis procera (Ait.) R.Br is a lactiferous plant, recognized for its pharmacological properties. The latex soluble proteins (LP) of this plant present anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anti-arthritis, among others activities. Despite the studies carried out regarding the phytotherapic potential of LP, knowledge about its toxicological and immunomodulatory properties is still incipient. Preliminary study on the immunomodulatory potential of PL by subcutaneous and oral route showed that this fraction was able to induce immune response subcutaneously, with production of IgE and symptoms of anaphylaxis, but with almost no immune response orally. The objective of this study was to determine the toxicological and immunomodulatory potential of the latex of Calotropis procera. LP was processed and characterized for use in vivo assays. The toxicity tests were performed in oral and intraperitoneal Swiss mice, evaluating the behavioral, hematological, biochemical and histological profile. Immunomodulatory activity was determined by oral tolerance protocol in BALB / c mice, and the level of antibodies, cytokines, DTH and hematological and histological analyzes were quantified. Animals given up to 5000 mg/Kg orally exhibited almost no adverse effects on physiological, biochemical and hematological parameters, with LD 50 above 5000 mg/kg. Death (20%) was documented when LP (75 mg/Kg) was given in the peritoneum. Minor doses (35 and 15 mg / kg) were administered and deaths were not documented. Accordingly, PL was classified in category 3 with LD50 in the range of 50 to 300 mg / kg (OECD, No. 423). Suppression of the immune response through the oral tolerance process was confirmed by the lowering of IgE and IgG in the serum, IL-4 and IFN- in spleen homogenates and the absence of anaphylaxis signs. PL, orally, showed low toxicity and immunogenicity according to the toxicity and immunomodulation tests performed. By intraperitoneal route, however, it presented high toxicity mainly due to the proteolytic activity of the sample. Although oral tolerance has been achieved at the different doses studied, further studies should be performed to establish the safe use of PL.