Antioxidant effect of Vaccinium myrtillus L. Stem extracts on gastric mucosal lesions in rats

FACUNDO TABOADA; CAROLINA SERRA BARCELLONA; SUSANA GENTA; NATALIA HABIB; EMILIO LIZÁRRAGA

Tafí del Valle

Jornada; XXXIV Jornadas Científicas de la Asociación de Biología de Tucumán; 2017

Asociación de Biología de Tucumán

The role of oxygen derived free radicals in the development of acute experimental gastric lesions induced by ethanol is well-known. In previous studies we demonstrated that the stem of Vaccinium myrtillus L. (Vm) presents a promising gastroprotective effect against ethanol damage. The present study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant effect of acetone (EA) and ethanolic (EE) extracts of Vm stems in a model of gastric ulceration induced in rats. Phytochemical analysis of the extracts was carried out. Dry stems were macerated with acetone: water (70:30) and ethanol (70%), in both cases at 10% (w/v). In vivo assays were performed into four groups, of six rats each one, given ethanol as oral inducer of gastric ulcers. The treated group received previously EA and EE (150mg/kg, respectively) and the positive control received sucralfate (100mg/kg). Mucus content and ulceration parameters were determined, and histological studies were performed. The metabolism of glutathione, markers of lipid peroxidation and the activity of the catalase enzyme were evaluated. The phytochemical screening of the extracts showed the presence of phenolic compounds, mainly flavonoids and tannins. EA treatment reduced the number, severity and percentage of ulceration, conserving the mucus content. It also produced an increase in catalase activity and reduced levels of glutathione and malondialdehyde in stomach homogenates, showing protection of the gastric mucosa against oxidative stress. These findings suggest that the gastroprotective effect of the EA of Vm stems could be related to its antioxidant potential.