Efeito proliferativo do extrato etanólico de Portulaca oleracea em células endoteliais e fibroblastos

Abstract

Tissue healing, a crucial biological process for injury recovery and tissue function restoration, stands as a significant focus in the study of numerous clinical conditions. Natural compounds found in plants, animals, and other living organisms have emerged as a promising alternative in the quest for new treatments that expedite the process and promote tissue remodeling. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea), a succulent and edible plant, has traditionally been used across various parts of the world, including in folk medicine, to treat various health conditions such as skin problems, minor cuts, insect bites, and superficial wounds. Beyond traditional knowledge, scientific literature holds studies investigating the plant's healing potential, suggesting its role in reducing inflammation and promoting cell regeneration. This study evaluated the in vitro cytotoxicity of the ethanolic extract of Portulaca oleracea on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and murine fibroblasts (3T3) using the Sulforhodamine B (SRB) method. Additionally, the extract's interference with cell proliferation capacity, cell viability, and induction of detachment from type I collagen were examined. The parameter used to assess cytotoxicity was the GI50 (the concentration inhibiting 50% of cell growth). The extract showed no cytotoxic effect (GI50 > 250 μg/mL) on the tested cell lines (HUVEC and 3T3) and demonstrated an ability to inversely proportionally induce endothelial cell proliferation and viability. Furthermore, it was unable to detach previously adhered HUVEC to type I collagen, hence presenting no proteolytic action between membrane proteins and type I collagen. Consequently, we can conclude that the ethanolic extract of Portulaca oleracea can induce proliferation and enhance the adherence of essential cells in the processes of healing and tissue repair. This aligns with prior studies on the subject, positioning it as a strong candidate for the development of new drugs and therapeutic options for these processes.