Pfaffia paniculata (Brazilian ginseng) extract modulates Mapk and mucin pathways in intestinal inflammation

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Pfaffia paniculata is an endemic Brazilian plant traditionally used against fatigue, stress, inflammation and low immune system as well as with proven intestinal anti-inflammatory activity. Aim of the study: To evaluate intestinal anti-inflammatory effects of P. paniculata on the mRNA abundance of Hsp70, Heparanase, Mapk1, Mapk3, Mapk6, Mapk9, Mud., Muc2, Muc3, Muc4, and NF-kappa B, as well as the mucin content in colonic samples. Material and methods: Intestinal inflammation was induced by TNBS and rats were divided into groups that received vehicle or 25, 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg of P. paniculata extract, p.o., started 2 h after inflammation induction and continued daily for 7 days. At the end of the procedure, the animals were killed and their colon samples were obtained for RT-qPCR analysis and mucin histochemical study with PAS/Alcian blue stain. The inflammatory process was confirmed with colon macroscopic analysis and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Results: P. paniculata at 200 mg/kg significantly decreased macroscopic damage score, extension of lesion and colonic MPO activity. Besides, P. paniculata at a dose of 25 mg/kg was also able to significantly decrease Hsp70, while treatment with 50 mg/kg reduced Mapk3 and increased Muc4. At dose of 100 mg/kg P. paniculata increased Mapkl, Muc3, Muc4, and decreased Mapk3. Finally, at the 200 mg/kg P. paniculata reduced Mapk3. The heparanase, Mapk6, Mapk9, Mucl and Muc2 mRNA abundances were not altered after P. paniculata treatments. Conclusion: Intestinal anti-inflammatory activity of P. paniculata was related to modulation of Mapks and mucin gene expression, as well as mucus secretion in intestinal inflammation. (AU)