CONTEXT

The botanical species Aublet (Leguminosae-Cercidoideae) is traditionally used in the Amazon for medicinal purposes.

OBJECTIVE

The acute toxicity of the hydroethanolic extracts from leaves and stems (HELBg and HESBg) was evaluated in zebrafish (), with emphasis on the embryonic developmental stage and adult alterations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Extracts were analyzed on LC-DAD-MS/MS. Zebrafish eggs were inoculated individually with concentrations of HELBg and HESBg (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.5 µg/mL), observed for 96 h. Adult zebrafish were treated with a single oral dose (100, 200, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg) of HELBg and HESBg, observed for 48 h.

RESULTS

HELBg and HESBg analysis detected 55 compounds. Both extracts exhibited toxicity, including embryo coagulation at higher doses of HELBg and absence of heartbeats in embryos at all doses of HESBg. Behavioral variations were observed; tissue alterations in adult zebrafish were found at the highest doses, primarily in the liver, intestine, and kidneys because of HELBg and HESBg effects. The LD of HESBg was 1717 mg/kg, while HELBg exceeded the limit dose of 2000 mg/kg.

CONCLUSIONS

The study on acute toxicity of extracts exhibits significant toxic potential, emphasizing effects on embryonic and adult zebrafish. The results suggest relative safety of the species preparations, encouraging further clinical trials on potential biological activities.