Taxonomic Study, Antibacterial and Anticancer Properties of Selected Species of the Genera Caucaea, Gongora, Bulbophyllum, Dichaea, Epidendrum, Huntleya, Maxillaria, Sobralia, Stelis (Orchidaceae) (Phase 2)

This project focuses on the pharmacological and taxonomic investigation of ten genera of orchids (Orchidaceae) collected from ten provinces in Ecuador, addressing the need to explore the medicinal potential of these plants, which have historically been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including tumors. The study tackles the chemical complexity of orchids, which possess compounds responsible for their fragrances and therapeutic properties. The methodology involves specimen collection and conservation in a herbarium, followed by a detailed taxonomic analysis through DNA extraction and sequencing (using matK, rpoC, and ITS markers) and subsequent bioinformatic analysis of the sequences using software like Mega 7, comparing them against databases such as GEN BANK and BOLD SYSTEMS. Furthermore, the functional properties of the plant extracts are evaluated. Antioxidant activity is measured using the DPPH method (with Vitamin C as a control), and antibiotic activity is determined by testing the effect of extracts against pathogenic bacteria. Finally, toxicity is assessed using the model organism Artemia salina to determine the Lethal Concentration 50% (LC50). The project aims to scientifically validate ethnobotanical uses and discover novel active principles from these valuable secondary metabolites.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>The main objective is to develop a comprehensive study on the taxonomy, antibacterial properties, toxicity, and anticancer potential of selected species belonging to the genera Caucaea, Gongora, Bulbophylum, Dichaea, Epidendrum, Huntleya, Maxillaria, Sobralia, and Stelis, all members of the Orchidaceae family.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Biodiversity and genetic resources