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.