LAUSR

BACKGROUND Sepsis is a set of serious organic manifestations caused by an infection, whose progression culminates in exacerbated inflammation and oxidative stress, poor prognosis, and high hospital costs. Antioxidants used against sepsis have been evaluated, including essential oils, such as β-caryophyllene (BCP), and polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the association of these two compounds. RESULTS Treatment with BCP-DHA, at a dose of 200 μL/animal, significantly inhibited the migration of neutrophils in a Cg-induced peritonitis model. After S. aureus infection, in the groups treated with BCP-DHA, there was a significant decrease in the total and differential count of leukocytes; increased expression of cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ in treated groups, rise of IL-4 and IL-5 in B/D and B/D + SA groups and augmention of IL-6 and IL-12 groups in B/D + SA groups. Histological and bacterial analysis revealed lower neutrophil migration and lower bacterial load, in the infected and treated groups. CONCLUSION In general, the BCP-DHA association presented anti-inflammatory activity against two different models of acute inflammation and infection, showing promising potential as a therapeutic adjuvant in sepsis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.