The influence of surface carbohydrates during in vitro infection of mammalian cells by the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum.

In order to better understand the role played by surface glycoconjugates during host cell adhesion and endocytosis of Trichophyton rubrum, we looked for the presence of carbohydrate-binding adhesins on the microconidia surface and their role on cellular interaction with epithelial and macrophages cells. The interaction of T. rubrum with chinese hamster ovary epithelial cells and their glycosylation-deficient mutants demonstrated a higher adhesion index in Lec1 and Lec2 mutants, that express mannose and galactose, respectively.

The effect of a catechin-rich extract of Cocos nucifera on lymphocytes proliferation.

Catechins are polyphenols with antioxidant activity. The fruit Cocos nucifera (Palmae) has a fi ber husk rich in catechins and the local population of northeast Brazil uses it as a medicine against various diseases. An anti-bacterial and anti-viral activity has been already observed using this substance.

The role of surface carbohydrates on the interaction of microconidia of Trichophyton mentagrophytes with epithelial cells.

The presence of carbohydrate-binding adhesins on the microconidia of Trichophyton mentagrophytes surface and their role on cellular interactions were investigated. Flow cytometry showed that this fungus recognizes the sugars mannose and galactose. The binding was inhibited by the addition of methyl alpha-D-mannopyranoside and methyl alpha-D-galactopyranoside, and showed higher fluorescence intensity at 37 degrees C than 28 degrees C.

Antimicrobial and antiviral activities of polyphenolics from Cocos nucifera Linn. (Palmae) husk fiber extract.

The decoction of Cocos nucifera L. husk fiber has been used in northeastern Brazil traditional medicine for treatment of diarrhea and arthritis. Water extract obtained from coconut husk fiber and fractions from adsorption chromatography revealed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.