In vitro immunomodulatory effects of Caryocar villosum oil on murine macrophages.

Macrophages undergo activation in response to multiple stimuli, including pathogens, growth factors and natural products. The inflammatory response and oxidative stress play critical roles in such macrophage activation. Some natural products reportedly promote immunoregulatory effects and the control of macrophage activation.

In Vitro Leishmanicidal Activity of Copaiba Oil and Kojic Acid Combination on the Protozoan and Host Cell.

(1) Background: Leishmaniasis refers to a group of anthropozoonotic diseases caused by Leishmania. The major chemotherapeutic agent used for its treatment is Glucantime, but the search continues for new compounds that are economically viable and act on the protozoan without causing damage to the host cell. As an alternative approach, this study used a combination of copaiba oil (CO) and kojic acid (KA) to determine their in vitro action on host cells, on the protozoan and its interaction with macrophages.

Medicinal plants from the Brazilian Amazonian region and their antileishmanial activity: a review.

Leishmaniasis, a neglected disease caused by Leishmania protozoans, primarily affects people in tropical and subtropical areas. Chemotherapy based on the use of pentavalent antimonials, amphotericin B, paromomycin, miltefosine and liposomal amphotericin B is currently the only effective treatment. However, adverse effects, long-term treatment and the emergence of parasite resistance have led to the search for alternative treatments.