Abstract Lichens have exhibited numerous biological activities, including growth inhibition of tumor cells. This study evaluated the antiproliferative activity of hypostictic and salazinic acids against tumor cell lines (B16-F10, PC-03, MCF7, HT-29, HEP-G2, K562 and 786-0) by the SRB assay in vitro and antitumor activity in experimental murine melanoma in vivo. Activation of caspase-3 was quantified by flow cytometry. The murine experimental melanoma model B16-F10 was used in BALB/c mice for evaluation of antitumor activity. Hypostictic acid showed significant antiproliferative activity in K562 cells (GI50 2.20 µM), B16-F10 (GI50 13.78 µM) and 786-0 (GI50 14.24 µM), whereas salazinic acid was more active against K562 cells (GI50 64.36 µM), HT-29 (GI50 67.91 µM) and B16-F10 (GI5078.64 µM). Quantification of capase-3 revealed that the test compounds did not increase the expression of that enzyme. In the in vivo antitumor evaluation in B16-F10 melanoma, the isolated compounds inhibited tumor growth in relation to weight and volume. Hypostictic acid (16.7 mg/kg) inhibited 72% and salazinic acid 88% of tumor volume (p < 0.05). The results indicated that, both in the in vitro and in vivo models, the compounds evaluated showed antiproliferative and antitumor activities.

Abstract Purpose: To analyzed the healing effect of the powdered shell of the Megalobulimus lopesi snail on wounds of diabetic rats, since in non-diabetic rats the powdered shell presented healing potential. Methods: Seventy-two Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus) were divided into three groups: Control group (GC.diab), no therapeutic intervention on the wound; Vehicle’s Control group, topical via, in diabetic rats (GCvt.diab): Powder Shell Group (PC) applied topically (GPCvt.diab): Experimental group was administered topically shortly after wound dressing and once a day during the experimental period (3, 7, 14 and 21 days) the composition containing the powdered shell of the snail. The following variables related to the healing potential were analyzed: macroscopic one, where the capacity of reduction of the wound area was evaluated; histological analysis in HE, angiogenic activity, morphometric analysis (re-epithelization), leukocyte inflammatory infiltrate; leukocyte count and also differentiation in peripheral blood. Results: The topical application in wounds of diabetic rats presented healing activity, accelerating wound closure, stimulating angiogenesis and being pro-inflammatory in the early and anti-inflammatory stages in the final times of the healing process. Conclusion: The topical administration of the powdered shell on wounds of diabetic patients becomes a therapeutic option of low cost, with ease in the administration and access as well.