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Artemisia copa aqueous extract as vasorelaxant and hypotensive agent
Susana Gorzalczany1, Valeria Moscatelli, Graciela Ferraro
1Cátedra de Farmacología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 956, C1113AAD Buenos Aires, Argentina. sgorza@ffyb.uba.ar
Artemisia copa extract demonstrates significant vasorelaxant and hypotensive effects, primarily by inhibiting calcium influx. Key compounds like luteolin and chrysoeriol likely contribute to its blood pressure-lowering properties.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Ethnobotany
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Artemisia copa (Asteraceae) is a traditional medicinal plant in Argentina.
- Investigated for its potential cardiovascular benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the vasorelaxant and hypotensive activities of Artemisia copa aqueous extract.
- To identify active phytochemical constituents responsible for these effects.
Main Methods:
- In vitro assays using isolated rat aortic rings.
- In vivo studies on spontaneous hypertensive rats assessing blood pressure and heart rate.
- Phytochemical analysis using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).
Main Results:
- Artemisia copa extract induced significant vasodilation in pre-contracted aortic rings.
- The extract inhibited calcium chloride- and norepinephrine-induced contractions.
- HPLC identified p-coumaric acid, isovitexin, luteolin, and chrysoeriol; luteolin, chrysoeriol, and p-coumaric acid showed vasorelaxant activity.
- Intravenous administration lowered blood pressure in hypertensive rats without affecting heart rate.
Conclusions:
- Artemisia copa aqueous extract exhibits vasorelaxing and hypotensive effects.
- These effects are attributed to the inhibition of calcium influx through membranous and intracellular channels.
- Luteolin, chrysoeriol, and p-coumaric acid are likely key contributors to the observed pharmacological activity.
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