Abstract
A polyphenol-enriched fraction from Annona crassiflora fruit peel (PEF-Ac) containing chlorogenic acid, epi-catechin, procyanidins B2 and
C1, quercetin-glucoside, kaempferol, and caffeoyl-glucoside was investigated for its
anti-inflammatory, pro-angiogenic, and profibrogenic potential in the healing of cutaneous
wounds. Four wounds were performed on the back of C57 mice and the lesions were treated
with the vehicle (Vaseline and lanolin) and PEF-Ac at concentrations of 2%, 4%, and
6% for 4 and 7 d. Neutrophils and macrophages activities were evaluated indirectly
by the activity of myeloperoxidase and N-acetyl-β-D-glycosaminidase, angiogenesis was evaluated by hemoglobin dosing and vessel count
in histological sections, and collagen deposition was assessed from histological sections
stained with picrosirius red. PEF-Ac demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity, with
reduced activities of neutrophil and macrophage in the cutaneous wounds. In addition,
there was an increase in the synthesis of types I and III collagen, as well as in
the percentage of wound closure, mainly after 4 d of treatment. On the other hand,
PEF-Ac did not present an effective pro-angiogenic activity. A. crassiflora fruit peel showed anti-inflammatory and profibrogenic properties, indicating a promising
natural source of bioactive molecules for treatment of cutaneous wounds.
Key words
Annona crassiflora
- Annonaceae - inflammation - wound healing - collagen - polyphenols
