Phenolic profile and biological potential of Endopleura uchi extracts

ObjectiveTo improve the knowledge on the metabolite composition of Endopleura uchi bark, concerning phenolic compounds, and to evaluate some of its biological capacities for further possible exploitation in food and pharmaceutical industries associated to their health-promoting qualities.MethodsTwo different extracts (infusion and hydroethanolic) were studied concerning phenolic composition and biological potential.ResultsFive compounds were determined by HPLC-DAD, being bergenin the major one. In general way, infusion presents a greater richness in these metabolites. The antioxidant, acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, α-glucosidase and antibacterial activity were checked by in vitro assays. A dose-dependent response was noticed against DPPH, superoxide and nitric oxide radicals, acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase and against α-glucosidase inhibitory assay. Antibacterial capacity of both extracts was investigated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, being more effective against the first one. The concentrations of infusion extract tested here revealed that is non-toxic for intestinal (Caco-2) cells line.ConclusionsThe results suggest that the extracts of Endopleura uchi may be interesting for incorporating in pharmaceutical preparations for human health, since it can suppress hyperglycaemia and inhibit cholinesteases, and or as food additive due to its antiradical and antibacterial activities.