Estudo fitoquímico e avaliação da toxicidade frente às larvas de Artemia salina Leach. do extrato de Miconia burchellii Triana (Melastomataceae).

Abstract

The vast biodiversity of the Brazilian Cerrado provides a great variety of plant species, which contain an abundance of molecules that may exhibit biological activities. However, this biological richness is severely threatened by fires and deforestation. A better utilization and rational exploration of the Cerrado's resources can be achieved through phytochemical studies alongside the investigation of the biological potential of its species. These studies not only contribute to the discovery and identification of new sources of bioactive molecules but also provide data that enrich the knowledge regarding the potential therapeutic use of plants from this biome. In this context, the aim of this work was to conduct a phytochemical study of the leaves of Miconia burchellii Triana (Melastomataceae), as well as to assess the toxicity of the extract obtained from the species. Toxicity was evaluated using the microcrustacean Artemia salina Leach, and the Median Lethal Concentration (LC₅₀) found for the ethanolic extract of the leaves was greater than 1000 µg/mL, characterizing the extract as non-toxic. The phytochemical prospecting was carried out through qualitative tests involving reactions with precipitate formation, color changes, and/or foam formation. The phytochemical prospecting of the Miconia burchellii extract revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and tannins, in addition to anthraquinones, coumarins, alkaloids, and terpenoid compounds. These results indicate the presence of bioactive compounds that may be associated with potential biological activities of the species, suggesting the need for further studies to explore its pharmacological properties and potential applications.