MACHAERIUM ERIOCARPUM BENTH: A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO CONTROLLING FUNGAL INFECTIONS

• Grant number: 24/07334-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2024
• End date: July 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Organic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Miriam Sannomiya
• Grantee: Erika Santos Duarte
• Host Institution: Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades (EACH). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Pathogenic fungi affect human health and imply the need for innovative therapeutic solutions in the face of the limitations of traditional antifungals. The therapeutic potential of plant compounds as a possible sustainable alternative to conventional antifungals has been a major target of research into natural products. The genus Machaerium, whose constitution is mainly flavonoids, which have proven potential as antifungal agents, has aroused interest in species belonging to the genus because they may offer a new approach to the development of effective and ecologically sustainable antifungal therapies, as is the case with Machaerium eriocarpum. With this in mind, this project aims to carry out a chemical study of extracts from the leaves, branches and roots of M. eriocarpum, as well as evaluating their antifungal potential against human pathogenic fungi. It is hoped not only to contribute significantly to the promotion of public health, but also to the preservation and sustainable use of plant biodiversity.