The antioxidant components in the pequi (Caryocar Brasiliense Camb) oil fruit diminish the oxidative stress status and the DNA damage in experimental lung cancer

Abstract

Objective: The pulp of pequi has high levels of antioxidants properties. Method: Eighteen male BALB/c mice divided: 14 animals received by gavage 0,5μL/mg/day of pequi oil (Control + CBCoil=4) during 75 days. After 15 days, 10 of these mices received two doses of 1,5 g/kg intraperitoneal of urethane (Urethane + CBC oil=10). The other 4 animals were only submitted to two doses of 1,5 g/kg intraperitoneal of urethane (Urethane group=4). After 75 days, groups were sacrificed. Antioxidant activity was evaluated in the lung tissues by TBARS (Thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances), CAT (catalase) and SOD (superoxido dismutase) test. DNA damage was estimated by comet test. Results: The lung parenchyma from Urethane groups without oil and with oil showed neoplasic formations induced by the chemical carcinogenesis in contrast with Control + CBC oil group. The results of TBARS test showed a significant decrease of lipid peroxidation in the Urethane + CBC oil, than Urethane group. The CAT and SOD test didn’t show a significant difference. Comet assay showed a significant decrease of DNA damage in Urethane + CBC oil when compared with Urethane group. Conclusion: The antioxidant components in the pequi oil diminish the oxidative stress status and DNA damage in chemical carcinogenesis, suggesting that this type of strategies may have a greater impact in lung cancer treatment.