Abstract
Sitoindoside-IV (= sitosterol 3-[2″-O-palmitpyl-myo-inosityl-(1″ → 6′)-β-D-glucopyranoside]), isolated from Musa paradisiaca L., in doses of 100-400 µg/mouse, when administered over a span of time (3 to 7 days) produced statistically significant mobilization and activation of peritoneal macrophages. The increased cellular activity, as indicated by the increase in the ratio of protein/DNA in the collected samples, was fairly persistent (up to 4 days). The incorporation of 3
H-thymidine in the macrophages was also significant, suggesting that the synthesis of DNA was associated with the dividing cells. Amongst the organs tested, the testis weight, relative to the body weight, showed changes in both directions (increase as well as decrease), when sitoindoside-IV was administered in different doses (200-400 µg/mouse). The findings are appraised in view of possible role of macrophages in the anti-ulcerogenic action of the compound, such as that which involves clearance of damaged tissue by increased phagocytosis, and secretion of biologically active products that facilitate wound healing.
1 Part 3 in the series: “Bioactive Phytosterol Conjugates”. For Part 2, see ref. (2).
