Identification of phenolic compounds and evaluation of antibacterial activity of Pouteria splendens fruit extracts

Abstract

The escalating global problem of antibiotic resistance necessitates the exploration of novel antimicrobial sources, particularly from natural origins. This study examines the potential of Pouteria splendens, an endemic Chilean tree, as a source of antimicrobial agents. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of fruit extracts revealed a rich composition of phenolic compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and stilbenes. The antibacterial activity of peel and pulp extracts was evaluated against a panel of clinically relevant Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Escherichia coli was the most susceptible bacterium to the pulp and peel extracts, which achieved a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 400 and 800 ppm, respectively. The presence of phenolic compounds like gallic acid, chicoric acid, kaempferol and resveratrol, known for their antimicrobial properties, may contribute to the observed activity. The results suggest that P. splendens fruit extracts are a promising natural antibacterial agent for the food industry.