Exploración fitoquímica, cromatográfica líquida al vacío y actividad antifúngica del extracto orgánico de Tecoma castanifolia contra Candida albicans, causante de patologías oportunistas

Abstract

The Tecoma genus is a group of small trees and shrubs native to tropical and subtropical America, which has been the subject of phytochemical research due to its potential as a source of bioactive compounds. These include alkaloids, flavonoids, and glycosides, known for their antibacterial and antioxidant properties. This thesis examined the biological capability of the organic extract from Tecoma castanifolia to combat the fungus Candida albicans. The main objective was to evaluate the biological activity of the organic extract of Tecoma castanifolia obtained using vacuum liquid chromatography (VLC). The specific objectives included obtaining the extract, characterizing its phytochemical profile, and identifying its antifungal activity through microdilution in multi-well plates. The technique involved the collection and preparation of plant material, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and the concentration of the extract using a rotary evaporator. VLC was used to divide the organic extract into seven parts, and its phytochemical composition was analyzed to reveal the presence of alkaloids and coumarins. Finally, the microdilution test was performed to determine if Candida albicans was inhibited. The findings indicated that, despite obtaining 106.38 grams of organic extract, the growth of Candida albicans was not inhibited. A possible cause for the lack of inhibition was identified as a low concentration of the extract. In conclusion, although vacuum liquid chromatography was an effective method for obtaining and fractionating the extract, the quantity and concentration obtained did not demonstrate significant antifungal activity. To improve its efficacy against Candida albicans, future research should focus on optimizing the extract's concentration or combining multiple extraction techniques.