Hemocompatibility and hemorheological activity of aqueous extracts from Phyllanthus sellowianus: effects on in vitro glycated erythrocytes

Introduction: Phyllanthus sellowianus (Klotzsch) Müll Arg. is an Argentinian and Brazilian native plant used to treat diabetes. In vascular diseases like diabetes, erythrocytes form anomalous aggregates resistant to dissociation, associated with high glucose levels. This work aims to evaluate the hemocompatibility and hemorheological activity of aqueous extracts from P. sellowianus and its anti-diabetic activity using in vitro glycated erythrocytes as occur by hyperglycemia. Methods: For this work, P. sellowianus specimens were collected on the Nogoyá River coast, Argentina, and morphoanatomical identified. Infusion, maceration, digestion, and cooking extracts were prepared with collected leaves and bark using saline as solvent. The osmolality and pH of the extracts were adjusted to an adequate interaction with human cells. Red blood cells (RBCs) from healthy donors (n=3) were used and incubated with glucose solution for in vitro simulation of the hyperglycemia effects. RBCs were incubated with the aqueous extracts to assess their hemocompatibility. Also, glycated RBCs were incubated with the extracts to analyze their anti-diabetic properties. Erythrocyte Rheometer and Optical Chip Aggregameter were used for the hemorheological evaluation. Results: Assays with the different P. sellowianus extracts modified the viscoelasticity and aggregation of RBCs. Moreover, in some cases, P. sellowianus extracts reversed the in vitro glycation effect and hemorheological parameters got nearer control values. Conclusion: These results would be helpful for the development of pharmaceutical formulations using this species or its phytocomponents. They also give relevant information to understand the action mechanisms through which these extracts or their components can be used as anti-diabetics in Phytomedicine.