Plants from the Brazilian Cerrado with antimycobacterial effect

Abstract

Tuberculosis constitutes a serious public health problem because it has multi-resistant forms that require treatment that is both difficult and extensive. There is a need to develop new antimycobacterial compounds, and plants represent a source of therapeutic resources. This study analyzed antimycobacterial action in eight extracts from plants found in the Brazilian Cerrado. The results showed significant inhibitory concentrations in relation to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, especially from the extracts of Apuleia molaris and Ouratea spectabilis, both of which presented reduced cytotoxic effects. Fractionation revealed a hexane fraction of A. molaris with significant and promising activity regarding future in vivo assays.