In vitro antiviral activity and phytochemical screen in the extracts of peels from four species of tropical fruits collected in Merida Yucatan, Mexico

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate extracts from the peels of Annona squamosa L. (purple sugar apple), Annona reticulata L. (custard apple), Chrysophyllum cainito L. (green star apple), and Melicoccus bijugatus Jacq. (mamoncillo), as potential sources of anti-HIV-1 agents. Methanolic extracts from the peels of the aforementioned tropical fruits were obtained by maceration. Antiviral activity was evaluated through HIV-1 RT inhibition by extracts, using a non-radioactive immuno/colorimetric assay (Lenti RT Activity Assay, Cavidi Tech). Assay was performed according to the protocol provided by the manufacturer. Extracts from the peels of A. squamosa, A. reticulata, and C. cainito showed high antiviral activity, with HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibition values of 96.45 ± 2.08%, 78.63 ± 0.97%, and 72.55 ± 2.26%, respectively. These results demonstrate that A. squamosa, A. reticulata, and C. cainito have significant antiviral activity in their peels and can therefore be regarded as potential sources of anti-HIV-1 agents.