Anatomical and Phytochemical Characterization of Physalis angulata L.: A Plant with Therapeutic Potential

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Abstract
Pharmacognosy Research,2019,11,2,171-177.
Published:April 2019
Type:Original Article
Authors:
Author(s) affiliations:

Léa Maria dos Santos Lopes Ferreira1, Ademir Evangelista do Vale2, Amancio José de Souza1, Kelly Batista Leite3, Cássia Sacramento3, Maria Lucia Vieira Moreno4, Thessika Hialla Araújo1, Milena Botelho Pereira Soares4, Maria Fernanda Rios Grassi5

1Bahian School of Medicine and Public Health, Salvador, Bahia, BRAZIL.

2Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, BRAZIL.

3Biology Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, BRAZIL.

4Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Bahia, BRAZIL.

5Bahian School of Medicine and Public Health; Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Salvador, Bahia, BRAZIL.

Abstract:

Background: Physalis angulata L. is widely used in folk medicine. Secondary metabolites with pharmacological potential, including physalins that exhibit anti‑inflammatory/immunomodulatory and antiparasitic activities, have been identified in this specie. To date, few studies have investigated storage sites for secondary metabolites in P. angulata. Objective: The objective of the study is to characterize the anatomical structures and determine the phytochemical composition of the vegetative organs of P. angulata. Materials and Methods: Electron and conventional optical microscopy was used for the anatomical characterization of P angulata organs (leaves, roots, stems, and fruits). Methanolic extracts from leaves, roots, stems, and fruits were chemically characterized for the presence of steroids, terpenoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, anthraquinones, coumarins, and phenolic compounds. Phenolic compounds, flavonoid contents, and antioxidant capacity of these extracts were determined by 2,2‑diphenyl‑1‑picrylhydrazyl‑free radical scavenging activity. Results: Abaxial leaf stomata were more abundant than the adaxial stomata. Trichomes were more abundant along veins in the petioles and stems, beyond the margin in the sepals and petals, and dispersed in the ovary. Steroids and terpenoids were present in leaves, stems, and fruits of P. angulata. Saponins were exclusive to fruits. Phytochemical screening did not detect flavonoids, anthraquinones, and alkaloids in all tested plant parts. The highest antioxidant capacities were identified in leaf and fruit extracts, possibly due to the presence of phenolic compounds in these organs. Conclusion: This study describes anatomical and biochemical features from P angulata that will assist in future phytochemistry and pharmacological studies, particularly pointing toward organs abundant in antioxidants (leaves and fruits) and steroids (possibly physalins; leaves).

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Structure of Physalis angulata L. (A) Plant parts, a: General aspect of the branch; b: Primary and secondary roots; c: Corolla in front view; d: Reproductive structures: Stamens and pistil (ovary and stigma); e: Fruit wrapped in the fruitful cup; f: Fruit; g: Seed. (B) Flower, (C) Fruit. P. angulata growing in an experimental field at the Horto Florestal Experimental Unit of the Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil

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