Perfil antioxidante, anti-inflamatório e aplicação cosmética das cascas do caule da castanha-do-brasil (Bertholletia excelsa H.K.B)

Abstract

The Amazon is considered the greatest source of production of natural raw materials, in which it represents a relevant biodiversity in the world's tropical forest and holds a self-sustainable ecosystem. Numerous researches have been carried out in order to identify new natural sources of bioactive compounds as an alternative in the applicability of new health products. In this sense, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory profile and cosmetic application (anti-aging) of the stem bark of Bertholletia excelsa, popularly known as Brazil nut, here called BEC. Assays were carried out to identify the phytoconstituents of the hydroethanolic extract, tests to evaluate the antioxidative capacity, studies involving the anti-inflammatory profile, evaluation of gene expression, identification of the cosmetic potential, toxicological evaluation and genotoxicity of the extract. Twelve phytochemical compounds were identified in BEC, where ellagitannin derivatives and gallic acid were the majority. In the DPPH•, ABTS•+, XO• and superoxide anion assays BEC showed antioxidant capacity, as well as cytoprotective capacity in macrophages (J774) due to the intracellular decrease in ROS production. BEC inhibited the production of nitric oxide in cells stimulated by LPS. In vivo in the peritonitis assay, the extract was effective in preventing the migration of leukocytes from the peritoneal cavity of mice and showed no toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans nematode. BEC increased the expression of HMOX-1 antioxidant genes followed by inhibition of inducible NO• synthesis. As for the extracellular matrix enzymes of the skin, the extract promoted an anti-elastase effect when compared to the control. Inhibited glycation by oxidative/non-oxidative pathways and stimulated fibroblast proliferation at different treatment times. It promoted cellular healing in the cell monolayer scratch test, in addition to stimulating collagen production in cell. It did not show toxicity in fibroblasts (MRC-5) and keratinocytes (HACAT), however, only at the lowest concentration, BEC was not genotoxic in MCR5 cells. This study was of vital importance, as it is a pioneer in the use of the bark of the B.excelsa tree in relation to the applications studied. Thus, given the rich composition of bioactives and its excellent experimental results, the extract can be an alternative as a possible phytotherapic/phytocosmetic allied to health product. The extract from the bark of B. excelsa can be exploited as a biotechnological product in the treatment of some diseases or even used in the cosmetic or pharmaceutical industry, generating economic benefits for the Amazon.