Uncaria tomentosa extract alters the catabolism of adenine nucleotides and expression of ecto-5′-nucleotidase/CD73 and P2X7 and A1 receptors in the MDA-MB-231 cell line

Ethopharmacological relevance: Uncaria tomentosa (Willd.) DC. (Rubiaceae) (Ut), also known as cat's claw, is a woody liana widely spread throughout the Amazon rainforest of Central and South America, containing many chemical constituents such as oxindole alkaloids, which are responsible for various biological activities. Since ancient times, the indigenous people of Peru have used it as a bark infusion for the treatment of a wide range of health problems gastric ulcers, arthritis and rheumatism. Recently, Ut is distributed worldwide and used as an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory herbal remedy. Additionally, U. tomentosa also has antitumural activity. However, little is known about the action of U. tomentosa on the purinergic system mechanisms, which is involved in tumor progression. Aim of the study: Considering the pharmacological properties of U. tomentosa, we sought to evaluate the hydroalcoholic extract U tomentosa is able to influence the purinergic system in breast cancer cells, MDAMB-231. Through the activity and expression of ectonucleotidases (NTPDase – CD39; Ecto-5′-nucleotidase – CD73) and purinergic repceptores (P2X7 and A1).