Chemical profile antioxidant activity cytotoxic effect Erythrochiton brasiliensis

What is it about?

Plants of the Rutaceae family are widespread throughout the world and contain approximately 2,000 types of species across 160 genera. Most species are trees or shrubs, with a few being herbs, frequently aromatic [1]. According to the Plant List [2], the genus Erythrochiton contains 15 plant species, among which 7 are widely accepted: E. brasiliensis Nees & Mart., E. fallax Kallunki, E. giganteus Kaastra & A.H.Gentry, E. gymnanthus Kallunki, E. hypophyllanthus Planch. & Linden, E. odontoglossus Kallunki, and E. trichanthus Kallunki. These species are widespread in tropical countries such as Colombia, Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Brasil [3]. The generic name Erythrochiton is derived from the Greek expression meaning “red tunic”, due to the red cylindrical calyx of plant [3]. Erythrochiton genus plant extracts are used in traditional medicine as antifungals and vermifuges, as well as to relieve toothache [5,6,7].

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Why is it important?

The chemical profile, in vitro cytotoxicity and antiviral activity of E. brasiliensis extract were described for the first time. E. brasiliensis leaves contain over ten polyphenols, with a composition strongly dependent on climaticconditions. The total content of polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids correlates well with the antioxidant activity. Future studies will involve the fractionation of the extracts and the evaluation of biological activity of each single compound.

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