Annona Squamosa L. (annonaceae): Chemical Bioprospection and Biological Activity in Two Phenological Stages

Annona squamosa L. has been recognized by having compounds with important in vitro biological activity against human disease or as insecticide. However, knowledge of the antiviral potential and micro molecules production of A. squamosa L. at different phenological stages is scarce. The secondary metabolites detection and biological activity from seeds and leaves in 4 and 14 years old trees from semi arid region were performed. Phytochemical identification was obtained by chemical bioprospection and histochemical localization in leaves and seeds’. Seeds acids content was analyzed by gas chromatography. Cytotoxic effect and antiviral activities against equine and suid herpesvirus were also performed. Results showed differences in the amount of flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds between leaves and seeds and by stage of production. Carotenoids and phenolic compounds, especially tannins, were higher in older trees’ leaves. Fat acids detected in seeds were oleic, linoleic arachidic, Cis-11-eicosenoic, elaidic and palmitoidic acids. Cytotoxicity was higher in hydrophobic than hydroalcoolic extracts. Broad spectrum antiviral activity was more marked for younger trees’ aqueous extract. The high chemical adaptability of A. squamosa to semi arid environment was evident and the identification of A. squamosa secondary metabolites regarding the plant senescence may guide a better utilization of plant organs in order to obtain substances of pharmacological interest.