The thesis deals with measuring the content of chosen phenolic substances in some specimen of the genera Chenopodium L. and Atriplex L. Two independent analytical methods were used to determine the content of phenolic substances, namely the Micellar Electrokinetic Capillary Chromatography (MECC) method and the High - Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method. Two cultured species of the genera Spinacia and Atriplex, three freely growing specimen of the genus Chenopodium and three freely growing species of the genus Atriplex were analysed. The analysis concerned the leaves and the inflorescence of these species.The total content of quercetin and rutin was determined by the MECC method. The highest total content of quercetin was found in the leaves of the Garden Orache (4240 mg/kg of dry matter), the lowest total content of quercetin was found in the inflorescence of the Atriplex prostrata DC. (19.6 mg/kg of dry matter). Rutin was only found in four samples, the rest of the samples contained rutin in quantities below the limit of quantification. The highest content of rutin was found in the leaves of the Lamb´s Quarters (868 mg/kg of dry matter).

The high composition of fruits and vegetables in the daily diet is associated with cognitive well-being, especially in the elderly population. The phytonutrients are shown to have effects as antioxidants that neutralize oxidative stressors and can interact with molecular pathways to signal neuron survival. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is a dynamic lifelong process of generating functional newborn neurons in the granular layer of the dentate gyrus from adult precursor cells. This process contributes to brain plasticity and plays a role in learning and memory. External stimuli such as environmental enrichment and physical activity are known to positively regulate this process. However, the role of nutrition and whether nutritional compounds have pro-neurogenic effects on adult hippocampal precursor cells are still elusive. In this study, I investigated the impact of dietary compounds in apples, a significant source of phytonutrients in our food, on adult hippocampal neurogenesis. I demonstrated that quercetin, the most abundant polyphenol in apple, induces cell cycle exit and differentiation of adult hippocampal precursor cells in monolayer culture. Furthermore, this compound also increases the number of surviving cells upon differentiation in vitro, through the activation of endogenous antioxidants in the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway and the prosurvival Akt pathway. Quercetin supplementation in vivo is also shown to significantly increase the number of surviving cells and new neurons in the dentate gyrus. To search for other potential active compounds in apple, I performed bioassay-guided fractionation whereby the flesh extract from apples of the Pinova cultivar was subjected to liquid- and solid phase separation and the active fraction was determined using primary neurosphere assays using cells derived from adult mouse dentate gyrus. Using mass spectometry, we revealed that the active compounds in the apple flesh extract are dihydroxybenzoate glycosides, which are non-flavonoid benzoic acid derivatives. I also confirmed that the isomers of these compounds; 2,3- and 3,5 dihydroxybenzoic acids significantly increase the number of neurospheres. Interestingly, 3,5 dihdroxybenzoic acid is an agonist of lactate receptor hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1 (HCAR1), with an even higher affinity than lactate. This receptor is suggested to mediate neurotrophic actions such as increasing production and release of BDNF. I also demonstrated for the first time that this receptor is presence in adult hippocampal precursor cells. To observe whether customary fruits or fruit-related products consumption affects adult hippocampal neurogenesis, I performed an experiment giving apple juice supplementation ad libitum to mice. I did not find a significant increase in net neurogenesis or the performance in the Morris water maze after apple juice supplementation. This is likely due to the low concentration of active compounds in apple juice failing to reach an effective concentration in the body. I conclude that apples provide potential proneurogenic compounds that can influence adult hippocampal neurogenesis through the activation of endogenous antioxidant mechanisms and molecular pathways for cell survival. Further studies are necessary to investigate the role of HCAR1 activation on adult hippocampal neurogenesis, which is a potential new mechanism to explain the health benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption. / Eine Ernährung die täglich reich an Obst und Gemüse ist, hat insbesondere bei älteren Menschen einen positiven Einfluss auf kognitive Fähigkeiten. Pflanzeninhaltsstoffe wirken als natürliche Antioxidantien, indem sie oxidative Stressoren neutralisieren. Weiterhin beeinflussen pflanzliche Nährstoffe molekulare Signalwege welche beim Überleben von Neuronen eine Rolle spielen. Die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese ist ein dynamischer, lebenslanger Prozess, bei dem aus Vorläuferzellen funktionelle neue Neuronen in der Körnerzellschicht des Gyrus dentatus gebildet werden. Dieser Prozess trägt zur Plastizität des Gehirns bei und spielt eine bedeutende Rolle beim Lernen und für das Gedächtnis. Externe Stimuli wie zum Beispiel eine reizreiche Umgebung und körperliche Aktivität wirken als positive Regulatoren und begünstigen die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese. Welche Rolle die Ernährung dabei spielt und ob Nahrungsbestandteile einen proneurogenen Effekt auf adulte hippocampale Vorläuferzellen haben ist kaum bekannt. In diesem Projekt habe ich den Effekt von Nahrungsbestandteilen aus Äpfeln, welche eine bedeutende Quelle von pflanzlichen Nährstoffen in unserer Ernährung darstellen, auf die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese untersucht. Ich habe gezeigt, dass Querzetin, das am reichlichsten in Äpfeln enthaltende Polyphenol, in der Monolayer-Zellkultur den Austritt aus dem Zellzyklus induziert und die Differenzierung von adulten hippocampalen Vorläuferzellen fördert. Des Weiteren steigert Querzetin nach der Differenzierung in vitro die Anzahl an überlebenden Zellen. Dies geschieht durch die Aktivierung von endogenen Antioxidantien des Nrf2-Keap1-Signalweges und des für das Überleben von Zellen förderlichen Akt-Signalweges. Die Verabreichung von Querzetin in vivo als Nahrungsergänzungsmittel führte ebenfalls zu einem signifikanten Anstieg der Anzahl an überlebenden Zellen und neu gebildeten Nervenzellen im Gyrus dentatus. Um weitere potentiell aktive Wirkstoffe von Äpfeln zu bestimmen, habe ich eine Bioassay-ausgerichtete Fraktionierung durchgeführt, wobei der Fruchtfleischextrakt von Äpfeln der Sorte Pinova einer Fest-/ Flüssig-Separation unterzogen wurde. Die aktive Fraktion wurde anhand der primären Neurosphäre-Assay-Methode mit Zellen aus dem Gyrus dentatus adulter Mäuse ermittelt. Mittels spektrometrischer Analyse habe ich gezeigt, dass die aktiven Wirkstoffe im Fruchtfleischextrakt von Äpfeln zur Gruppe der Dihydroxybenzol-Glykosiden gehören, welche den nicht-flavonoiden Benzoesäure-Derivaten zuzuordnen sind. Im in vitro Neurosphäre-Assay habe ich zudem gezeigt, dass die Isomere dieser Wirkstoffe, die 2,3- und die 3,5-Dihydroxybenzoesäuren, die Anzahl der Neurosphären signifikant erhöhen. Interessanterweise ist die 3,5-Dihydroxybenzoesäure ein Agonist des Laktatrezeptors Hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1 (HCAR1) und weist sogar eine noch höhere Affinität als Laktat auf. Es wird suggeriert, dass dieser Rezeptor neurotrophische Wirkungen vermittelt, wie zum Beispiel eine erhöhte Produktion von BDNF und dessen Ausschüttung. Zudem habe ich das Vorkommen dieses Reporters erstmalig bei adulten hippocampalen Vorläuferzellen nachgewiesen. Um zu untersuchen, ob der Konsum handelsüblicher Obstprodukte die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese beeinflusst, habe ich Mäusen Apfelsaft ad libitum verabreicht. Nach der Gabe von Apfelsaft sah ich keinen signifikanten Anstieg der Gesamtneurogenese und keine Verbesserung der Leistungsfähigkeit im Morris-Wasserlabyrinth-Test. Dies ist bedingt durch eine zu geringe Konzentration der aktiven Wirkstoffe im Apfelsaft wodurch die wirksame Konzentration im Körper nicht erreicht wird. Ich schlussfolgere, dass in Äpfeln potentielle pro-neurogene Inhaltsstoffe enthalten sind, welche die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese beeinflussen. Dies wird insbesondere durch die Aktivierung endogener antioxidativer Mechanismen und molekularer Signalwege vermittelt, die für das Überleben von Zellen von Bedeutung sind. Weitere Studien sind nötig, um zu bestimmen wie sich die Aktivierung von HCAR1 auf die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese auswirkt. Dies stellt einen potentiellen neuen Wirkmechanismus dar, welcher die gesundheitlichen Vorteile von Obst- und Gemüsekonsum belegt.

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES / Quercetin is a flavonoid widely distributed in plants, and it is shown to have several biological activities. This study aims to describe the effects of quercetin on the contracting and electrophysiological properties of the cardiac muscle as well as the homeostasis of intracellular calcium. This study evaluated the inotropic effect of quercetin in guinea pigs’ left atria, its effects on the adrenergic receptors, and on the electrocardiographic parameters. In mice ventricular cardiomyocytes the L-type Ca2+ current (ICa,L), the intracellular Ca2+ global transient and the calcium sparks were evaluated. The results revealed a positive inotropic effect from quercetin (EC50 3.64 x 10-6 M, n = 4) that was significantly reduced by 1 M propranolol. Furthermore, quercetin caused diastolic relaxation (~7%). In ventricular cardiomyocytes, 30 μM quercetin increased the density of ICa,L at 0 mV of −0.95 ± 0.01 A/F from −1.21 ± 0.08 A/F (n = 5, p < 0.05) and membrane potential at which 50% of the channels are activated (V0.5) diminished to -13.06 ± 1.52 mV from -19.26 ± 1.72 mV (n = 5, p < 0.001) not altering the slope factor. Furthermore, cardiomyocytes exposure at 30 μM quercetin presented [Ca2+]i transient of 4.61± 0.22 (n = 91 cells, p < 0.001) that was 28% higher compared with control situation (3.60 ± 0.14, n = 40 cells). Quercetin also accelerated the [Ca2+]i transient decay kinetics at 90% (t90) from 875.8 ± 13.44 ms to 740.0 ± 26.74 ms (p < 0.001) and at 50% (t50) from 253.3 ± 7.75 ms to 181.4 ± 12.67 ms (p < 0.001). In cardiomyocytes not electrically stimulated, quercetin did not increase the frequency of calcium sparks. In isolated guinea pig heart, quercetin increased the heart rate from 133.1 ± 5.49 bpm to 146.2 bpm ± 5.28 (n = 5, p <0.0001); decreased the PR interval from 107.3 ± 4.69 ms to 100.3 ± 1.79 ms (n = 5, p < 0.05) and decreased the QTc from 10.49 ± 0.048 ms to 10.23 ± 0.06 ms. The duration of the QRS complex was not significantly changed, and there was also no evidence of the appearance of cardiac arrhythmias. Thus, we showed that quercetin activates β-adrenergic receptors, leading to increased L-type calcium current and intracellular calcium transient, not inducing the increase of calcium sparks or arrhythmogenic effects. / A quercetina é um flavonoide, amplamente distribuído nas plantas e apresenta várias atividades biológicas. Esse trabalho tem como objetivo descrever os efeitos da quercetina sobre as propriedades contráteis e eletrofisiológicas do músculo cardíaco, assim como a homeostase do cálcio intracelular. Nesse estudo, foi avaliado o efeito inotrópico da quercetina em átrio esquerdo de cobaia, sua ação nos receptores adrenérgicos e sobre os parâmetros eletrocardiográficos. Em cardiomiócito ventricular de camundongo, foram estudadas as correntes de Ca+2 tipo-L (ICa,L), o transiente intracelular global de cálcio e as sparks de cálcio. Os resultados revelaram que a quercetina promoveu efeito inotrópico positivo (EC50 3,64 x 10-6 M, n = 4) que foi significativamente reduzido pelo propranolol a 1 M. Além disso, a quercetina induziu relaxamento diastólico (~7%). Em cardiomiócito ventricular, 30 μM de quercetina promoveu aumento da densidade da ICa,L em 0 mV de -0,95 ± 0,01 A/F para -1,21 ± 0,08 A/F (n = 5, p < 0,05) e o potencial de membrana, onde 50% dos canais estão ativados (V0,5) diminuiu de -13,06 ± 1,52 mV para -19,26 ± 1,72 mV (n = 5, p < 0,001) sem alterar a inclinação da curva. Além disso, os cardiomiócitos expostos a 30 μM de quercetina apresentaram um transiente intracelular de cálcio de 4,61 ± 0,22 (n = 91 células, p < 0,001) que foi 28% maior comparado com cardiomiócito na situação controle (3,60 ± 0,14, n = 40 células). A quercetina também acelerou a cinética do decaimento do transiente da Ca+2, em 90% (t90) foi reduzido de 875,8 ± 13,44 ms para 740,0 ± 26,74 ms (p < 0,001) e em 50% (t50) de 253,3 ± 7,7 ms para 181,4 ± 12,67 ms (p < 0,001). Em cardiomiócito não estimulados eletricamente, a quercetina não aumentou a frequência de sparks de cálcio. Em coração isolado de cobaia, a quercetina aumentou a frequência cardíaca de 133,1 ± 5,49 bpm para 146,2 ± 5,28 bpm (n = 5, p < 0,0001); diminuiu o intervalo PR de 107,3 ± 4,69 ms para 100,3 ± 1,79 ms (n = 5, p < 0,05); diminuiu o QTc de 10,49 ± 0,048 ms para 10,23 ± 0,06 ms. A duração do complexo QRS não apresentou alteração significativa, assim como não foi evidenciado o aparecimento de arritmias cardíacas. Assim, evidenciamos que a quercetina ativa receptores β-adrenérgicos, levando ao aumento da corrente de cálcio tipo-L e do transiente intracelular de cálcio, sem induzir o aumento de sparks de cálcio ou efeitos arritmogênicos.

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / Hypothyroidism is characterized by a disorder resulting from deficiency of thyroid hormones and is related to lipid metabolism dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases development risk. However, these changes in hypothyroidism need to be understood. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the association between lipid, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in patients with hypothyroidism and antioxidant effects of quercetin in these markers, using hypothyroidism experimental model induced by methimazole in rats. The methodology and results are presented in the form of articles. In article 1, were evaluated the oxidative stress biomarkers in 20 patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) (49.12 ± 10.85 years). Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and arylesterase (ARE) were analyzed in SH patients and controls. In addition, were measured plasmatic lipids: total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). TBARS levels and CAT activity were higher in subclinical hypothyroidism patients, such as TC and LDL-C plasmatic levels. Arylesterase activity was lower in the SH group. Correlations were observed between plasmatic lipids and oxidative stress biomarkers and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH was correlated with TBARS, CAT, and SOD. The second study (manuscript 1) aimed to investigate the association between inflammatory biomarkers and overt hypothyroidism (OH). Plasmatic levels of cytokines were determinate: interleukin 1 (IL-1), interleukin 6 (IL- 6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interferon gamma (INF-ɣ) and the levels of cell free DNA (cf-DNA). Furthermore, we evaluated lipid profile and prothrombotic markers (fibrinogen and D-dimer). OH patients had pro-inflammatory profile, resulted from high levels of cytokines and cf-DNA. Lipids and prothrombotic markers also showed elevated. Significant associations between inflammatory status and lipid profile were observed in hypothyroid patients. Manuscript 2 evaluates the effect of quercetin on oxidative stress biomarkers in methimazole (MMI) - induced hypothyroid rats. Hypothyroidism was induced by administering MMI at 20 mg/100 ml in the drinking water, for 30 days. After this period, rats received orally 10 or 25 mg/kg of quercetin (QT) for 8 weeks. Sixty male wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (group I, control; group II, QT10; group III, QT25; group IV, hypothyroid; group V, hypothyroid + QT10; group VI, hypothyroid + QT25). Hypothyroid rats showed hepatic, renal and serum TBARS levels increased, along with increased protein carbonyl (PCO) in liver and increased ROS levels in liver and kidney. Quercetin administration (QT10 and 25), was effective in decreasing TBARS levels in serum and kidney, PCO in liver and ROS generation in liver and kidney tissues. Moreover, in hypothyroid group were observed high TBARS levels in cerebral cortex and hippocampus. QT25 treatment decreased the levels in both tissues. Administration of QT25 to hypothyroid rats resulted in decreased SOD activities in liver and whole blood and increased liver CAT activity. Ascorbic acid levels and total oxidative scavenging capacity (TOSC) were increased in liver and kidney rats after QT10 and QT25 treatment. These results suggest association between oxidative stress and hypothyroidism that may potentially modulated by antioxidant supplementation such as quercetin. These findings are of great importance in understanding the biochemical dysfunctions and oxidative status in hypothyroidism, as well as, in research of antioxidants strategies to be used as adjuncts in the treatment of this disorder. / O hipotireoidismo é caracterizado por uma desordem decorrente da deficiência de hormônios tireoideanos, estando relacionado a disfunções no metabolismo lipídico e ao risco de desenvolvimento de doenças cardiovasculares. Entretanto, estas alterações no hipotioreodismo precisam ser melhor compreendidas. Assim, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a associação de marcadores lipídicos, inflamatórios e de estresse oxidativo em pacientes com hipotireoidismo e o efeito antioxidante da quercetina nestes marcadores, utilizando como modelo experimental o hipotireoidismo induzido por metimazol em ratos. A metodologia e resultados são apresentados sob a forma de artigos. No artigo 1, foram avaliados biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo em 20 pacientes com hipotireoidismo subclínico (HSC) (49,12 ± 10,85 anos). Os níveis de substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS), e as atividades das enzimas superóxido dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) e arilesterase (ARE) foram determinadas em pacientes com HSC e controles. Além disso, foram investigados os níveis de lipídeos plasmáticos: colesterol total (CT), triglicerídeos (TG) e as lipoproteínas de alta (HDL) e baixa densidade (LDL). Os níveis de lipoperoxidação determinado pela medida do TBARS e a atividade da enzima CAT estavam aumentados nos pacientes hipotireóideos, bem como os níveis plasmáticos de CT e colesterol LDL. A enzima ARE mostrou-se diminuída no grupo HSC. Foram evidenciadas correlações entre lipídeos plasmáticos e biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo e com o hormônio de estimulação da tireóide (TSH). O TSH foi correlacionado com TBARS, CAT e SOD. O segundo estudo (manuscrito 1) teve por objetivo investigar a associação entre biomarcadores inflamatórios e o hipotireoidismo clínico (HC). Foram determinados os níveis plasmáticos das citocinas: interleucina 1 (IL-1), interleucina 6 (IL-6), fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF- α), interferon gama (INF- ɣ) e os níveis de DNA circulante livre. Além disso, foram avaliados o perfil lipídico e marcadores prótrombóticos (fibrinogênio e D-dímero). Os pacientes com HC apresentaram perfil próinflamatório, resultante dos níveis elevados das citocinas e do DNA livre. Os lipídeos e os marcadores pró-trombóticos também se apresentaram elevados. Associações significativas entre o perfil inflamatório e o perfil lipídico foram observadas nos pacientes hipotireóideos. No manuscrito 2 avaliou-se o efeito da quercetina sobre biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo em um modelo de hipotireoidismo induzido por metimazol (MMI) em ratos. O hipotireoidismo foi induzido pela administração de MMI na concentração de 20mg/100mL na água de beber, por um período de 30 dias. Após este período, os animais receberam oralmente 10 ou 25 mg/kg de quercetina (QT) por um período de 8 semanas. Ratos machos wistar (n=60) foram divididos em seis grupos (grupo I, controle; grupo II, QT10; grupo III, QT25; grupo IV, hipotireóideo; grupo V, hipotireóideo + QT10; grupo VI, hipotireóideo + QT25). Os ratos hipotireóideos apresentaram níveis de TBARS hepático, renal e séricos aumentados, bem como os níveis de proteína carbonil (PCO) no fígado e os níveis de espécies reativas de oxigênio (ERO) no fígado e rins. A administração de quercetina (QT 10 e 25) diminuiu os níveis de TBARS em soro e rins, a PCO no fígado e a geração de ERO nos tecidos hepático e renal. Além disso, no grupo hipotireóideo foram observados altos níveis de TBARS no córtex cerebral e hipocampo. O tratamento com QT25 reduziu os níveis em ambos os tecidos. A administração de QT 25 aos ratos com hipotireoidismo diminuiu a atividade da SOD em fígado e sangue total e aumentou a atividade hepática da CAT. Os níveis de ácido ascórbico e a capacidade antioxidante total aumentaram no fígado e rins dos ratos após tratamento com QT10 e QT25. O conjunto dos resultados sugeriu associação entre estresse oxidativo e hipotireoidismo que pode ser potencialmente modulado por suplementação de antioxidantes como a quercetina. Estes achados são de grande importância no entendimento das disfunções bioquímicas e do status oxidativo no hipotireoidismo como também na busca de estratégias antioxidantes a serem utilizadas como coadjuvantes no tratamento desta disfunção.

[pt] Neste trabalho, polímeros de impressão molecular (MIP) foram desenvolvidos para aplicação em procedimentos de extração em fase sólida (SPE) visando separar e concentrar quercetina (flavonóide), piraclostrobina (pesticida) e kanamicina (antibiótico) em amostras contendo substâncias interferentes na determinação dos analitos-alvo. A seletividade em relação aos analitos de interesse foi conseguida pela interação específica dessas espécies químicas com os sítios de reconhecimento dos polímeros. A produção desses MIPs foi baseada na polimerização em bulk e, de modo a se comprovar a efetividade dos mesmos, o desempenho destes foram comparados com polímeros não-impressos (NIP) correspondentes, que foram produzidos sem o uso da molécula-molde. Os procedimentos para síntese são simples e o material produzido é quimicamente resistente nas condições de uso. A caracterização do material produzido foi feita por meio de microscopia de varredura eletrônica (MEV) e espectrometria de absorção na região do infravermelho (IV). O MIP preparado com quercetina foi empregado na extração seletiva deste flavonóide em amostras de urina e de suplemento alimentar e permitiu a obtenção de limite de detecção de 4,58 x 10-8 mol L-1 usando espectrofotometria de absorção no UV-vis com recuperações superiores a 90 porcento e separação efetiva de outros flavonóides como a flavona e naringenina. O MIP preparado com piraclostrobina foi usado na análise de amostra de água de rio e urina e permitiu o alcance de limite de detecção de 4,6 x 10-9 mol L-1, usando detecção por espectrofluorimetria, e recuperações maiores que 90 porcento na presença de outros pesticidas da classe das estrobilurinas. Para o MIP preparado com kanamicina, o limite de detecção alcançado usando detecção com sonda de nanopartículas fluorescentes foi 9 ng mL-1 (1,5 x 10-8 mol L-1) com aplicação na análise de urina e vacina contra febre amarela com recuperações maiores a 90 porcento. / [en] In this work, molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) have been developed for application procedures for solid phase extraction (SPE) in order to separate and concentrate quercetin (flavonoid), pyraclostrobin (pesticide) and kanamycin (antibiotic) in samples containing interfering substances in the determination of target analytes. The selectivity in respect of analytes has been achieved by specific binding of these chemical species with the recognition sites of the polymers. The production of MIP polymerization was based on "bulk" and in order to prove the effectiveness thereof, the performance of these polymers were compared with non-printed (NIP) thereof, that were produced without the use of template molecule. The procedures for synthesis are simple and relatively low cost and is chemically resistant material produced under the conditions of use. The characterization of the material produced was done by scanning electron microscopy (MEV), absorption spectroscopy in the infrared region and CHN elemental analysis. The MIP prepared with quercetin was used for the selective extraction of flavonoids in urine samples and dietary supplement and allowed to obtain a detection limit of 4,58 x 10-8 mol L-1 using absorption spectrophotometry in the UV-vis with recoveries exceeding 90 percent and effective separation of other flavonoids such as naringenin and flavone. The MIP prepared with pyraclostrobin was used to analyze samples of urine and river water and allowed to reach the detection limit of 4,6 x 10-9 mol L-1, detection using spectrofluorimetry and recoveries greater than 90 percent in presence of other pesticides from the class of strobilurins. For the MIP prepared with kanamycin, the detection limit using detection with fluorescent nanoparticles probe was 9 ng mL-1 (1,5 x 10-8 mol L-1) application to the analysis of urine and yellow fever vacine with recoveries greater than 90 percent.

The high composition of fruits and vegetables in the daily diet is associated with cognitive well-being, especially in the elderly population. The phytonutrients are shown to have effects as antioxidants that neutralize oxidative stressors and can interact with molecular pathways to signal neuron survival. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is a dynamic lifelong process of generating functional newborn neurons in the granular layer of the dentate gyrus from adult precursor cells. This process contributes to brain plasticity and plays a role in learning and memory. External stimuli such as environmental enrichment and physical activity are known to positively regulate this process. However, the role of nutrition and whether nutritional compounds have pro-neurogenic effects on adult hippocampal precursor cells are still elusive. In this study, I investigated the impact of dietary compounds in apples, a significant source of phytonutrients in our food, on adult hippocampal neurogenesis. I demonstrated that quercetin, the most abundant polyphenol in apple, induces cell cycle exit and differentiation of adult hippocampal precursor cells in monolayer culture. Furthermore, this compound also increases the number of surviving cells upon differentiation in vitro, through the activation of endogenous antioxidants in the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway and the prosurvival Akt pathway. Quercetin supplementation in vivo is also shown to significantly increase the number of surviving cells and new neurons in the dentate gyrus. To search for other potential active compounds in apple, I performed bioassay-guided fractionation whereby the flesh extract from apples of the Pinova cultivar was subjected to liquid- and solid phase separation and the active fraction was determined using primary neurosphere assays using cells derived from adult mouse dentate gyrus. Using mass spectometry, we revealed that the active compounds in the apple flesh extract are dihydroxybenzoate glycosides, which are non-flavonoid benzoic acid derivatives. I also confirmed that the isomers of these compounds; 2,3- and 3,5 dihydroxybenzoic acids significantly increase the number of neurospheres. Interestingly, 3,5 dihdroxybenzoic acid is an agonist of lactate receptor hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1 (HCAR1), with an even higher affinity than lactate. This receptor is suggested to mediate neurotrophic actions such as increasing production and release of BDNF. I also demonstrated for the first time that this receptor is presence in adult hippocampal precursor cells. To observe whether customary fruits or fruit-related products consumption affects adult hippocampal neurogenesis, I performed an experiment giving apple juice supplementation ad libitum to mice. I did not find a significant increase in net neurogenesis or the performance in the Morris water maze after apple juice supplementation. This is likely due to the low concentration of active compounds in apple juice failing to reach an effective concentration in the body. I conclude that apples provide potential proneurogenic compounds that can influence adult hippocampal neurogenesis through the activation of endogenous antioxidant mechanisms and molecular pathways for cell survival. Further studies are necessary to investigate the role of HCAR1 activation on adult hippocampal neurogenesis, which is a potential new mechanism to explain the health benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption. / Eine Ernährung die täglich reich an Obst und Gemüse ist, hat insbesondere bei älteren Menschen einen positiven Einfluss auf kognitive Fähigkeiten. Pflanzeninhaltsstoffe wirken als natürliche Antioxidantien, indem sie oxidative Stressoren neutralisieren. Weiterhin beeinflussen pflanzliche Nährstoffe molekulare Signalwege welche beim Überleben von Neuronen eine Rolle spielen. Die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese ist ein dynamischer, lebenslanger Prozess, bei dem aus Vorläuferzellen funktionelle neue Neuronen in der Körnerzellschicht des Gyrus dentatus gebildet werden. Dieser Prozess trägt zur Plastizität des Gehirns bei und spielt eine bedeutende Rolle beim Lernen und für das Gedächtnis. Externe Stimuli wie zum Beispiel eine reizreiche Umgebung und körperliche Aktivität wirken als positive Regulatoren und begünstigen die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese. Welche Rolle die Ernährung dabei spielt und ob Nahrungsbestandteile einen proneurogenen Effekt auf adulte hippocampale Vorläuferzellen haben ist kaum bekannt. In diesem Projekt habe ich den Effekt von Nahrungsbestandteilen aus Äpfeln, welche eine bedeutende Quelle von pflanzlichen Nährstoffen in unserer Ernährung darstellen, auf die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese untersucht. Ich habe gezeigt, dass Querzetin, das am reichlichsten in Äpfeln enthaltende Polyphenol, in der Monolayer-Zellkultur den Austritt aus dem Zellzyklus induziert und die Differenzierung von adulten hippocampalen Vorläuferzellen fördert. Des Weiteren steigert Querzetin nach der Differenzierung in vitro die Anzahl an überlebenden Zellen. Dies geschieht durch die Aktivierung von endogenen Antioxidantien des Nrf2-Keap1-Signalweges und des für das Überleben von Zellen förderlichen Akt-Signalweges. Die Verabreichung von Querzetin in vivo als Nahrungsergänzungsmittel führte ebenfalls zu einem signifikanten Anstieg der Anzahl an überlebenden Zellen und neu gebildeten Nervenzellen im Gyrus dentatus. Um weitere potentiell aktive Wirkstoffe von Äpfeln zu bestimmen, habe ich eine Bioassay-ausgerichtete Fraktionierung durchgeführt, wobei der Fruchtfleischextrakt von Äpfeln der Sorte Pinova einer Fest-/ Flüssig-Separation unterzogen wurde. Die aktive Fraktion wurde anhand der primären Neurosphäre-Assay-Methode mit Zellen aus dem Gyrus dentatus adulter Mäuse ermittelt. Mittels spektrometrischer Analyse habe ich gezeigt, dass die aktiven Wirkstoffe im Fruchtfleischextrakt von Äpfeln zur Gruppe der Dihydroxybenzol-Glykosiden gehören, welche den nicht-flavonoiden Benzoesäure-Derivaten zuzuordnen sind. Im in vitro Neurosphäre-Assay habe ich zudem gezeigt, dass die Isomere dieser Wirkstoffe, die 2,3- und die 3,5-Dihydroxybenzoesäuren, die Anzahl der Neurosphären signifikant erhöhen. Interessanterweise ist die 3,5-Dihydroxybenzoesäure ein Agonist des Laktatrezeptors Hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1 (HCAR1) und weist sogar eine noch höhere Affinität als Laktat auf. Es wird suggeriert, dass dieser Rezeptor neurotrophische Wirkungen vermittelt, wie zum Beispiel eine erhöhte Produktion von BDNF und dessen Ausschüttung. Zudem habe ich das Vorkommen dieses Reporters erstmalig bei adulten hippocampalen Vorläuferzellen nachgewiesen. Um zu untersuchen, ob der Konsum handelsüblicher Obstprodukte die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese beeinflusst, habe ich Mäusen Apfelsaft ad libitum verabreicht. Nach der Gabe von Apfelsaft sah ich keinen signifikanten Anstieg der Gesamtneurogenese und keine Verbesserung der Leistungsfähigkeit im Morris-Wasserlabyrinth-Test. Dies ist bedingt durch eine zu geringe Konzentration der aktiven Wirkstoffe im Apfelsaft wodurch die wirksame Konzentration im Körper nicht erreicht wird. Ich schlussfolgere, dass in Äpfeln potentielle pro-neurogene Inhaltsstoffe enthalten sind, welche die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese beeinflussen. Dies wird insbesondere durch die Aktivierung endogener antioxidativer Mechanismen und molekularer Signalwege vermittelt, die für das Überleben von Zellen von Bedeutung sind. Weitere Studien sind nötig, um zu bestimmen wie sich die Aktivierung von HCAR1 auf die adulte hippocampale Neurogenese auswirkt. Dies stellt einen potentiellen neuen Wirkmechanismus dar, welcher die gesundheitlichen Vorteile von Obst- und Gemüsekonsum belegt.

[pt] As nanopartículas semicondutoras (pontos quânticos ou QDs), na forma de dispersões coloidais aquosas, foram usadas como sondas para determinação indireta de flavonóides. As características especiais desses materiais, decorrente do efeito de confinamento quântico alcançado nas estruturas cujas dimensões são da ordem de poucos nm de diâmetro, resultam em propriedades fotofisicas únicas que podem ser alteradas pelo ajuste do tamanho e/ou na modificação da superfície destes nanocristais. Uma vez que os flavonóides não fluorescem naturalmente, nanopartículas de CdS modificadas com ácido 2-mercaptopropiônico (sonda dos QDs de 2MPA-CdS) e de CdTe modificadas com ácido 3-mercaptopropiônico (sonda dos QDs de 3MPA-CdTe) foram sintetizadas em fase aquosa coloidal e usadas para a determinação indireta de rutina (RUT) e de quercetina (QUE) por meio de medição de decréscimo da fotoluminescência das sondas. A utilização dos QDs como sensores na quantificação destes compostos permitiu a realização de medições fotoluminescentes rápidas e simples, sem a necessidade do uso de complexos procedimentos de derivatização química, usulamente indicados para estes casos. Verificou-se, através do modelo de Stern-Volmer, que o sinal fotoluminescente dos QDs de 2MPA-CdS é atenuado pela presença de RUT, e esta supressão de sinal foi proporcional à concentração de analito na dispersões coloidas (faixa de resposta linear entre 0,5 e 4,0 x 10-5 mol L-1), com limite de detecção (LD) de 1,2 x 10-6 mol L-1. Observou-se também que a supressão de sinal fotoluminescente foi uma combinação da contribuição do efeito filtro (devido à absorção de parcial de radiação pelo analito no comprimento de onda de excitação) e de supressão estática (proveniente da ligação e troca de energia entre analito e QDs). A abordagem foi usada na determinação seletiva de RUT em formulação farmacêutica e em amostras simuladas contendo RUT e QUE ou em saliva fortificada com RUT, nesses dois últimos casos foi associando um método a uma separação prévia de componentes por cromatografia de camada fina. A seletividade em relação a outros flavonóides também foi avaliada. A sonda de 3MPA-CdTe QDs foi usada para a determinação de QUE tanto na dispersão original quanto na dispersão organizada por surfactente (brometo de cetiltrimetilamônio ou CTAB). A QUE foi quantificada em meio não organizado e o método aplicado na análise de suplemento contendo QUE e ácido ascórbico e na análise de extratos de cebolas roxa e amarela. A técnica de cromatografia de camada fina foi utilizada com o intuito de separar a QUE de interferentes presentes na cebola. O modelo de Stern-Volmer foi utilizado para estabelecer uma relação linear entre a fotoluminescência medida na dispersão dos QDs e a quantidade de QUE adicioanda na dispersão. A curva analítica cobriu a faixa de concentrações de QUE entre 0,5 a 6,0 x 10-5 mol L-1 com LD de 0,5 x 10-5 mol L-1. Estudos realizados indicaram que a natureza do quenching formado é estático. Finalmente, um estudo sistemático da interação entre diversos flavonóides e o QDs de 3MPA-CdTe foi estudado de modo a se estabelecer a função do surfactante CTAB no processo de interação entre sonda e supressor. Verificou-se maior estabilidade de sinal da sonda neste meio, e interaçōes analito-QDs distintas daquelas obtidas na ausência do surfactante. / [en] The semiconductor nanoparticles (quantum dots or QDs), in the form of aqueous colloidal dispersions, were used as probes for the indirect determination of flavonoids. The special characteristics of these materials, due to the quantum confinement effect achieved in structures whose dimensions are of the order of a few nm, in diameter, result in unique photophysical properties that can be changed by adjusting the size and/or by surface modification of these nanocrystals. Since flavonoids do not present natural fluorescence, CdS nanoparticles modified with 2-mercaptopropionic acid (2MPA-CdS QDs probe) and CdTe modified with 3-mercaptopropionic acid (3MPA-CdTe QDs probe) have been synthesized in colloidal aqueous phase and used for indirect determination of rutin (RUT) and quercetin (QUE) by measuring the photoluminescence decreasing from the probes. The use of QDs as probes for the quantification of these compounds has allowed the quick and simple photoluminescence measurements without the need for complex chemical derivatization procedures, usually indicated in these cases. It was found, through the Stern-Volmer model, that the photoluminescence of the 2MPA-CdS QDs is attenuated by the presence of RUT, and such a signal suppression was proportional to the concentration of analyte in colloidal dispersion (linear response range between 0,5 to 4.0 x 10-5 mol L-1), with limit of detection (LOD) of 1.2 x 10-6 mol L-1. It was also observed that photoluminescence suppression was a combination of the contribution of inner filter effect (due to partial radiation absorption by the analyte at the wavelength of excitation) and static supression (from the binding and energy exchange between analyte and QDs). The method was used to the selective determination of RUT in pharmaceutical formulation and in simulated samples containing QUE/RUT and/or saliva fortified with RUT. For these former two samples, thin layer chromatography was used to establish prior separation of components. The selectivity towards other flavonoids was also evaluated. The 3MPA-CdTe QDs probe was used to determine QUE in original dispersion and in dispersion containing surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide or CTAB). QUE was quantified in a non-organized environment (without surfactant) and the method was applied for the analysis in supplement containing QUE and ascorbic acid and for the analysis of purple and yellow onions. Thin layer chromatography was used in order to separate interfering present in onions. The Stern-Volmer model was used to establish a linear relationship between the photoluminescence measurement of the QDs dispersion and the amount of QUE added into the dispersion. The analytical curve covered the range of concentrations between 0.5 to 6.0 x 10-5 mol L-1 of QUE with LD 0.5 x 10-5 mol L-1. Studies indicate that the nature of formed quenching is static. Finally, a systematic study of the interaction between various flavonoids and CdTe-3MPA QDs was studied in order to establish the CTAB surfactant function in the interaction between probe and quencher. It was observed more signal stability of the probe in this medium, and interactions distinct analyte-QDs from those obtained in the absence of surfactant.

No description available.

This thesis examines the cytochrom P450 (CYP) drug metabolizing enzyme inhibition and antimicrobial properties of 46 common food plants available in the Canadian Market and the inhibitory properties of 17 traditional Cree antidiabetic medicines on aldose reductase. Inhibitory activity profiles of CYP 3A4, 3A5, 3A7 and 2D6 were created for the 46 samples. The most active plants in the CYP inhibition assay were the spices, belonging to the Apiaceae and Lamiaceae. Similarly, the most active plants in the antimicrobial assay were also the Apiaceae and Lamiaceae. Swine lens homogenate was tested as a novel model for the aldose reductase inhibition assay. Several Cree plants selected for the aldose reductase study showed a high activity, primarily in samples which also contained high levels of phenolics. A positive correlation was observed between total phenolics content and aldose reductase inhibition r2=0.44, p=0.05. Crude extracts of Rhododendron groenlandicum exhibited inhibitory activities of 35.11 ± 0.16 %. The subfractionation and HPLC analysis of R. groenlandicum revealed high levels of phenolics compounds including, catechin, epicatechin, quercetin and quercetin glycosides. This study found that medicinal and food plants contain phytochemicals that may have both beneficial and detrimental biological effects. / Nous avons étudié dans cette thèse les capacités de 46 plantes comestibles, disponibles sur le marché canadien, à inhiber le cytochrome P450 (CYP), enzyme responsable du métabolisme des médicaments, les propriétés antimicrobiennes, et les propriétés inhibitrices de l'aldose réductase à partir de 17 médicaments antidiabétiques traditionnellement utilisés par les Cris. Les profils de l'activité inhibitrice du CYP 3A4, 3A5, 3A7 et 2D6 ont été réalisés pour les 46 plantes à l'étude. Les plantes les plus actives dans le test d'inhibition du CYP furent les épices, plantes appartenant aux familles des Apiaceae et Lamiaceae. De même, les plantes les plus actives dans le bioessai antimicrobien furent aussi les plantes de ces deux mêmes familles. Un homogénat de cristallin de porc a été utilisé comme modèle nouveau pour le test d'inhibition de l'aldose réductase. Plusieurs plantes, utilisées par la nation Cri, qui ont été sélectionnées pour l'étude ont montré une forte activité inhibitrice de l’aldose réductase, principalement dans les échantillons qui contenaient des teneurs élevées en composés phénoliques. Une corrélation positive a été observée entre la teneur totale en composés phénoliques et l'inhibition de l'aldose réductase (r2 = 0.44, p = 0.05). Des extraits bruts de Rhododendron groenlandicum ont montré des activités inhibitrices de 35.11 ± 0.16%. Le sous-fractionnement et l'analyse HPLC de R. groenlandicum ont aussi révélé des teneurs élevées des composés phénoliques, incluant la catéchine, l'épicatéchine, la quercétine et les glycosides de quercétine. Cette étude a montré que les plantes médicinales et alimentaires contiennent des composés phytochimiques qui peuvent avoir à la fois des effets biologiques bénéfique et préjudiciable.

This thesis examines the cytochrom P450 (CYP) drug metabolizing enzyme inhibition and antimicrobial properties of 46 common food plants available in the Canadian Market and the inhibitory properties of 17 traditional Cree antidiabetic medicines on aldose reductase. Inhibitory activity profiles of CYP 3A4, 3A5, 3A7 and 2D6 were created for the 46 samples. The most active plants in the CYP inhibition assay were the spices, belonging to the Apiaceae and Lamiaceae. Similarly, the most active plants in the antimicrobial assay were also the Apiaceae and Lamiaceae. Swine lens homogenate was tested as a novel model for the aldose reductase inhibition assay. Several Cree plants selected for the aldose reductase study showed a high activity, primarily in samples which also contained high levels of phenolics. A positive correlation was observed between total phenolics content and aldose reductase inhibition r2=0.44, p=0.05. Crude extracts of Rhododendron groenlandicum exhibited inhibitory activities of 35.11 ± 0.16 %. The subfractionation and HPLC analysis of R. groenlandicum revealed high levels of phenolics compounds including, catechin, epicatechin, quercetin and quercetin glycosides. This study found that medicinal and food plants contain phytochemicals that may have both beneficial and detrimental biological effects. / Nous avons étudié dans cette thèse les capacités de 46 plantes comestibles, disponibles sur le marché canadien, à inhiber le cytochrome P450 (CYP), enzyme responsable du métabolisme des médicaments, les propriétés antimicrobiennes, et les propriétés inhibitrices de l'aldose réductase à partir de 17 médicaments antidiabétiques traditionnellement utilisés par les Cris. Les profils de l'activité inhibitrice du CYP 3A4, 3A5, 3A7 et 2D6 ont été réalisés pour les 46 plantes à l'étude. Les plantes les plus actives dans le test d'inhibition du CYP furent les épices, plantes appartenant aux familles des Apiaceae et Lamiaceae. De même, les plantes les plus actives dans le bioessai antimicrobien furent aussi les plantes de ces deux mêmes familles. Un homogénat de cristallin de porc a été utilisé comme modèle nouveau pour le test d'inhibition de l'aldose réductase. Plusieurs plantes, utilisées par la nation Cri, qui ont été sélectionnées pour l'étude ont montré une forte activité inhibitrice de l’aldose réductase, principalement dans les échantillons qui contenaient des teneurs élevées en composés phénoliques. Une corrélation positive a été observée entre la teneur totale en composés phénoliques et l'inhibition de l'aldose réductase (r2 = 0.44, p = 0.05). Des extraits bruts de Rhododendron groenlandicum ont montré des activités inhibitrices de 35.11 ± 0.16%. Le sous-fractionnement et l'analyse HPLC de R. groenlandicum ont aussi révélé des teneurs élevées des composés phénoliques, incluant la catéchine, l'épicatéchine, la quercétine et les glycosides de quercétine. Cette étude a montré que les plantes médicinales et alimentaires contiennent des composés phytochimiques qui peuvent avoir à la fois des effets biologiques bénéfique et préjudiciable.