Evaluating the bioactivity and toxicity of Siparuna guianensis Aublet (Siparunaceae) leaf extracts in zebrafish

Abstract

Siparuna guianensis, a traditionally utilized aromatic plant known as negramina, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. The present study explores the toxicity, neutrophil migration, tail fin regeneration, and antioxidant effects of various S. guianensis leaf extracts on zebrafish embryos and larvae. Methanol (ME), 70% ethyl alcohol (HE), and distilled water (AE) were used to prepare extracts from the leaves, and the presence of phenolic compounds was confirmed. Additionally, the antioxidant activity index (AAI) was evaluated. Using a zebrafish model, toxicity and teratogenicity were assessed over a 120-h period with concentrations varying from 0.08 to 10 mg/ml. Non-lethal concentrations were used to study neutrophil migration, tail fin regeneration, cell apoptosis, and antioxidant enzyme activity, which included enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST). The extracts, which exhibited high AAI values, were found to contain phenolic compounds. AE proved toxic at concentrations from 2.5 to 10 mg/ml, whereas HE and ME showed toxicity at concentrations between 0.62 and 10 mg/ml. Interestingly, AE-treated larvae did not show any malformations. Despite a reduction in neutrophil migration observed with all tested extracts, they did not promote fin regeneration. The activity of SOD and CAT enzymes remained unaffected by the extracts. Unlike HE and ME, AE did not induce apoptosis in cells. In summary, the leaf extracts of S. guianensis (AE, HE, ME) are rich in phenolic compounds, demonstrate a reduction in neutrophil migration, and possess high AAI values.

Graphical abstract