LC-ESI-IT-MS/MS and MALDI-TOF approach: identification of natural polymers from rhizophora mangle barks and determination of their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

We recognize the chemical composition of the acetonic extract of Rhizophora mangle barks (AERM) using mass spectrometry analysis [liquid chromatography (LC)?ESI?IT-MS/MS and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight-MS (MALDI-TOF)]. Analgesic activity was evaluated by formalin and tail-flick experimental assays. Anti-inflammatory activity was performed by paw edema test induced by carrageenan and 48/80 compounds. The first series of experiments involved [LC]?FIA?IT-MS/MS with 11 separated catechins derivatives until degree of polymerization 3 (DP3). The spectra obtained by MALDI-TOF analysis of the AERM presented two homologous series: one based on polymers of m/z 288 Da increments (up to DP12) and another series based on polymers of m/z [288 ? 162] Da increments (up to DP11). In addition to these series of flavan-3-ol, each DP had a subset of masses with a variation of - 16 Da (homologous series of afzelechins?m/z 873?3465 Da) and ? 16 Da (homologous series of gallocatechins?m/z 905?3497 Da). A similar pattern with homologous series of gallocatechins and afzelechins could also be observed for a fifth and a sixth monohexoside series: glucogallocatechins (m/z 779?3371) and glucoafzelechins (m/z 747?3339). The intraperitoneal administration of different doses of AERM (50, 150 and 300 lg mL-1) have a morphine-like effect and intense anti-inflammatory activity.