[Plant extracts with cytostatic properties growing in Cuba. I]

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Microbiology
• Plant Science

Background:

• Plant-derived compounds are a rich source of bioactive molecules.
• Investigating natural products for antimicrobial properties is crucial for drug discovery.
• Cytostatic agents are vital in controlling microbial proliferation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cytostatic activity of various plant extracts.
• To identify plant species with potent antifungal properties.
• To assess the efficacy of different solvent extracts (aqueous, alcoholic, ketonic).

Main Methods:

• The Kubas microbiologic method was employed to assess antifungal activity.
• The fungus Ascomiceto Neurospora crassa was used as the test organism.
• Fungal growth was quantified in millimeters, and inhibition percentages were calculated.

Main Results:

• Extracts from nine plant species were screened for their cytostatic effects.
• Significant inhibition of Neurospora crassa growth was observed with specific plant extracts.
• The most effective extracts were derived from Annona muricata, Costus spiralis, Cecropia peltata, Xanthium chinense, and Pluchea adorata.

Conclusions:

• Several plant species, notably Annona muricata, possess notable cytostatic properties.
• The study identifies promising natural sources for antifungal agents.
• Further research into these extracts could lead to novel therapeutic applications.