Hecogenin Reduces Hypernociception in Mice

Abstract

The present study examined the anti‐hypernociceptive effect of the hecogenin (HG) in mice. For assess this effect were realized models of mechanic hypernociception induced by carrageenan (CG) and Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α (TNF‐α). The mice were pre‐treated with vehicle (saline + Tween 80 0.2%; p.o.) or HG (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.). Thirty minutes after the treatments, were injected in region subplantar of the rear right paw: 20 μL of CG (300 μg/paw) or TNF‐α (100 pg/paw). The hypernociception was assessed in times of 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 hours after the injection of CG and TNF‐α, with digital Von Frey. It was observed that HG was able to maintain the baseline nociceptive threshold in two tests. The results suggest anti‐hypernociceptive property of HGN, probably by a mechanism inhibition of production of cytokines, which activate various reactions connected with inflammation, reducing thereby hipernociception.Financial support: FAPITEC/SE, CAPES, CNPq (Brazil).