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Updated: Jul 30, 2026

Gastrointestinal Motility Monitor (GIMM)
Published on: December 1, 2010
Spasmogenic effect of a Solanummelongena leaf extract on guinea pig tracheal chains and its possible mechanism(s)
D R A Mans1, J Toelsie, S Mohan
1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Anton de Kom University, Kernkampweg 5-7, Paramaribo, Suriname. dennisra@sr.net
Abstract:
The methanol extract of fresh leaves of Solanum melongena L. (Solanaceae) was evaluated for its capacity to alter the tone of isolated, pre-contracted guinea pig tracheal chains, as well as for its possible mechanism(s) of action. Using serial dilutions between 0.0025 and 2.5 mg/mL, the extract was found to cause a dose-dependent increase in the force of muscle contraction. The EC(50) value was 0.46 +/- 0.01 mg/mL. The concomitant use of acetylcholine 10(-5) M did not significantly affect the force of contraction induced by the extract. Histamine 10(-5) M added at about 40% to, and salbutamol 10(-6) M antagonized by about 30% its constrictive effect. Chlorpheniramine 10(-6) M, propanolol 10(-5) M, and nifedipine 10(-6) M did not significantly influence the extract-induced force of contraction, but atropine 3 x 10(-7) M reduced it by approximately 60%. These data suggest that the Solanum melongena extract exerted a bronchospasmogenic rather than a bronchospasmolytic effect, probably through muscarinic receptor stimulation.
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