Neuromodulation of Acid‐Sensitive Ion Channels (ASICs) and Anti‐Inflammatory Potential by Lichenxanthone in Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Experimental and Docking Studies

Abstract The xanthone lichenxanthone did not show toxic effects (LC 50 >1.0 mg/mL). lichenxanthone prevented nociceptive behavior induced by acidic saline, and its analgesic effect was blocked by amiloride, highlighting the involvement of neuromodulation of acid‐sensitive ion channels (ASICs). In the analysis of anti‐inflammatory activity, concentrations of 0.1 and 0.5 mg/mL of lichenxanthone reduced the edema induced by k‐carrageenan 3.5 %, observed from the fourth hour of analysis. This effect was similar to that observed with ibuprofen (positive control). No leukocyte infiltrates were observed in lichenxanthone, suggesting that the compound acts in the acute inflammatory response. The results of the molecular docking study revealed that lichenxanthone exhibited better affinity energy when compared to the ibuprofen control against the two targets evaluated.