Baccharis dracunculifolia DC (Asteraceae) selectively modulates the effector functions of human neutrophils

Objectives To examine whether the hydroalcoholic extract from Baccharis dracunculifolia leaves (BdE) modulates the human neutrophil oxidative metabolism, degranulation, phagocytosis and microbial killing capacity. Methods In-vitro assays based on chemiluminescence, spectrophotometry, flow cytometry and polarimetry were used, as well as docking calculations. Key findings At concentrations that effectively suppressed the neutrophil oxidative metabolism elicited by soluble and particulate stimuli ( Conclusions BdE selectively modulates the effector functions of human neutrophils, inhibits the activity of key enzymes and scavenges physiological oxidant species. Caffeic acid contributes to lower the levels of oxidant species. Our findings help to unravel the mechanisms by which these natural products exert immunomodulatory action towards neutrophils.