Bioguided identification of triterpenoids and neolignans as bioactive compounds from anti-infectious medicinal plants of the Taira Atacama's community (Calama, Chile).

BACKGROUND

Previous ethnobotanical surveys from the north Andean part of Chile, where different ethnic groups are co-existing, with the preeminence of Aymara and Atacama traditions, revealed an extensive domestic use of the local flora. In these communities, traditional medicinal uses are mainly related to the treatment of respiratory, gastro-intestinal and urinary disorders, pain and inflammation, which is closely linked to epidemiological observations.

OBJECTIVE

As these symptoms may be related to infectious diseases, a bioguided evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activity was conducted on eighteen species selected with the Taira community, in Ollague.

METHODS

Screening was performed using a large panel of pathogenic germs involved in the main community acquired infectious diseases, represented by Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria of clinical interest and by human pathogenic fungi, using a bioguided approach.

CONCLUSIONS

Gram positive strains of clinical interest were highly sensitive to Aloysia deserticola (Verbenaceae) and Krameria lappacea (Krameriaceae) extracts. The bioguided approach led us to identify the isolated neolignan from K. lappacea conocarpan (1), and triterpenoids form A. deserticola (oleanolic acid (6) and ursolic acid (10)), as the main bioactive compounds.