Prospecting for potential antioxidants, antifungal and antibacterial volatile compounds from Brazilian red algae (Rhodophyta)

• Grant number: 07/02846-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Duration: May 01, 2008 - October 31, 2010
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Toxicological Analysis
• Principal Investigator: Ernani Pinto Junior
• Grantee: Ernani Pinto Junior
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Only few reports have shown essential oils (EO) and/or volatile compounds (VC) from algae and their biological activities, especially from red algae (Rhodophyta). Therefore, the aim of this project is to investigate the presence of EO and VC in Brazilian red algae species, chemically characterize these natural products as well as to verify their microbicide and antioxidant activities. In other to do this, we will use different extraction and analytical techniques such as chromatography (GC-MS, HPLC and TLC), among others, and spectroscopy (UV-VIS, NMR, IR and MS). Moreover, the recent grant approved by our group (CNPq grant CT-Saúde Edital 10, #554660/2006-7) will be used as a counterpart of this proposal. In case of finding new or potential compounds and their possible use as cosmetics, patents will be considered. (AU)