Abstract

<p>In this study, <i>Moringa oleifera</i> flower extract and a trypsin inhibitor (MoFTI) isolated from it were evaluated for anti-protozoal activity against <i>Trypanosoma cruzi</i> and cytotoxicity to mammalian cells. The presence of flavonoids was remarkable in the HPLC fingerprints of the extract at 254 and 360 nm. Amino acid sequences of peptides derived from in-gel digestion of MoFTI were determined. Both the extract and MoFTI caused lysis of <i>T. cruzi</i> trypomastigotes with LC<sub>50/24 h</sub> of 54.18 ± 6.62 and 41.20 ± 4.28 μg/mL, respectively. High selectivity indices (7.9 to >12) for <i>T. cruzi</i> cells over murine peritoneal macrophages and Vero cells were found for the extract and MoFTI. The results show that MoFTI is a trypanocidal principle of the flower extract.</p

    Similar works

    Full text

    thumbnail-image

    Available Versions