Europium Metal Complex [Eu(dbm) <sub>3</sub> .LAP] Promotes Antinociceptive Behavior via TRPA1 Neuromodulation and an Anti‐Inflammatory Effect in Adult Zebrafish
The identification of antinociceptive compounds often relies on animal models such as zebrafish, in which TRPA1 activation induces hyperlocomotion. This study presents the first evaluation of the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties of the europium complex [Eu(dbm)<sub>3</sub>.LAP], derived from Lapachol, and investigates its possible interaction with the TRPA1 channel in adult zebrafish. The complex was administered intramuscularly, and its effects were compared with camphor and morphine controls. In vivo findings were integrated with in silico docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and predictive pharmacokinetic analysis. Eu(dbm)<sub>3</sub>.LAP (40 mg/kg, oral) was effective specifically in the inflammatory phase, and its effect was blocked by camphor, indicating TRPA1 modulation. The compound also reduced carrageenan-induced inflammation and attenuated oxidative stress in nerve and liver tissues. In silico predictions indicated high intestinal absorption (∼100%), good blood-brain permeability (LogBB = 0.62), and low cardiotoxicity (pKi<sub>hERG</sub> = 7.73). Docking revealed a binding energy of -8.1 kcal·mol<sup>-</sup> <sup>1</sup> with stable interactions involving LYS1046, TYR1049, and LYS1052. Molecular dynamics confirmed stability over 100 ns and preservation of key hydrogen bonds, supporting the modulatory potential observed in vivo.
Authors
- Matheus Nunes da Rocha (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0929-4565)
- Erick Patrick Alves Moreira (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5709-7526)
- E. Borges (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0131-1121)
- Jorge Fernando Silva de Menezes (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3787-6922)
- Aluísio Marques da Fonseca (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8112-9513)
- Maria Izabel Florindo Guedes (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4569-8663)
- Emmanuel Silva Marinho
- Antonio Wlisses da Silva
- Hélcio Silva dos Santos
Institutions
- Universidade Estadual do Ceará (BR)
- Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia (BR)
- University for International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony (BR)
- State University of Vale do Acaraú (BR)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Chemistry & Biodiversity
- Published
- 2026-03-01
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.71141
- Primary Topic
- Ion Channels and Receptors
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00