Avaliação pré-clínica das alterações cardiovasculares induzidas pelo extrato de Erythroxylum suberosum A. St. Hilaire

Abstract

Hypertension (HA) represents a significant public health issue, characterized by persistent elevation of blood pressure (BP). HA is often asymptomatic and constitutes a primary risk factor for the development of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and renal diseases. The Brazilian cerrado biome harbors a rich diversity of plant species, among which the genus Erythroxylum stands out. This genus encompasses several species with pharmacological potential, exemplified by plants of the species Erythroxylum suberosum A. St. Hilaire (E. suberosum). However, few studies have been conducted to validate the antihypertensive potential of these plants. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antihypertensive potential of the crude extract of E. suberosum. To this end, Wistar rats (n=6) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) (n=6), weighing between 250-300 grams, were used. The animals were underwent to surgical procedures for the unanesthetized recording of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) following bolus administration of three doses of E. suberosum extract (0.08 mg/kg; 0.16 mg/kg; 0.25 mg/kg). Our results demonstrate that the extract did not induce alterations in MAP in normotensive rats (Δ vehicle: 4,04 ± 2,4 mmHg; Δ 0,25 mg/kg: 1,5 ± 0,95 mmHg). In SHRs, the highest dose significantly reduced MAP (Δ vehicle: -2,14 ± 2,85 mmHg vs. Δ 0,25 mg/kg: -13,62 ± 3,80 mmHg; p<0,05). The extract did not induce changes in HR in normotensive (Δ vehicle: -11,07 ± 5,49 bpm vs. Δ 0,25 mg/kg: 7,15 ± 7,28 bpm) or SHR (Δ vehicle: 1,60 ± 9,90 bpm vs. Δ 0,25 mg/kg: -16,32 ± 22,29bpm). Collectively, our data corroborate the antihypertensive potential of E. suberosum extract. However, new studies must be carried out to define possible mechanisms of action.