Effect of Monocerin, a Fungal Secondary Metabolite, on Endothelial Cells

Author(s)

Gomes, Tainah Colombo ; Conrado, Rafael ; de Oliveira, Rodrigo Cardoso ; Selari, Priscila Jane Romano Goncalves ; de Melo, Itamar Soares ; Araujo, Welington Luiz ; Maria, Durvanei Augusto ; De Souza, Ana Olivia

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: TOXINS; v. 15, n. 5, p. 18-pg., 2023-05-18.

Abstract

This study reports the isolation and identification of the endophytic fungus Exserohilum rostratum through molecular and morphological analysis using optical and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), as well as the procurement of its secondary metabolite monocerin, an isocoumarin derivative. Considering the previously observed biological activities of monocerin, this study was performed on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) that are widely used as an in vitro model for several different purposes. Important parameters, such as cell viability, senescence-associated beta-galactosidase, cellular proliferation by using 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate N-succinimidyl ester (CFSE), apoptosis analysis with annexin, cellular morphology through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and laser confocal analysis were evaluated after exposing the cells to monocerin. After 24 h of exposure to monocerin at 1.25 mM, there was more than 80% of cell viability and a low percentage of cells in the early and late apoptosis and necrosis. Monocerin increased cell proliferation and did not induce cell senescence. Morphological analysis showed cellular integrity. The study demonstrates aspects of the mechanism of action of monocerin on endothelial cell proliferation, suggesting the possibility of its pharmaceutical application, such as in regenerative medicine. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 14/19152-8 - Study of the endothelial regenerative ability of the secondary metabolite annularin produced by the fungal Exserohilum rostratum
• Grantee: Ana Olívia de Souza
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 17/26524-7 - Genetic improvement of the Exserohilum rostratum fungus and study of monocerin effect on surgical wounds in murine model.
• Grantee: Ana Olívia de Souza
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants