Cytotoxic Action of the Lyophilized Infusion of Aristolochia triangularis Leaves on Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Abstract

The use of native plants in folk medicine has been increasing in Brazil, highlighting the need to study these plants and their bioactive compounds. Aristolochia triangularis, or "cipó-mil-homens," is one such plant, raising concerns due to the possible presence of toxic compounds like aristolochic acids. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the lyophilized infusion of A. triangularis leaves at different concentrations on cell growth and mortality rate in Saccharomyces cerevisiae-Fleischmann®. The infusion of A. triangularis leaves was prepared and lyophilized. Concentrations of 1.25, 2.50, and 5.00 μg.L^-1 were prepared and used to evaluate the interaction of the yeast with the extract at 3 and 6 hours, with tests for cell growth capacity and mortality rate using methylene blue. The results showed that the A. triangularis extract inhibited yeast growth, depending on the concentration and exposure time. The 5.00 μg.L^-1 concentration had a higher rate of dead cells at 3 hours, while the 1.25 μg.L^-1 concentration increased mortality after 6 hours of exposure. These findings underscore the importance of assessing the toxicity of medicinal plant extracts.