Study of chemical and genetic diversity in natural populations of Erythrina mulungu Mart. ex Benth

Abstract

Erythrina mulungu Mart. ex Benth. a medicinal plant species from the Brazilian Cerrado, known to act on the central nervous system (CNS), has been popularly used as anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory and its antinociceptive effect appears to be independent of the opioid system. This plant was included in the list of 66 medicinal plants authorized by the Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), normalized by the Collegiate Board Resolution RCD 10/2010, and therefore considered to be included in national programs to manage primary health problems. Despite of being extensively used as phytotherapic, there are no reports on agronomic and genetic studies that would ensure the sustainable use of that species. Considering the relevance of E. mulungu it is imperative to carry out chemical and genetic studies to characterize the variety of this species in natural environments. The aim of this project is to determine the chemical and genetic variability among E. mulungu individuals using HPLC and AFLP molecular markers. Based on the diversity of the species it will be possible to establish conservation strategies to prevent or minimize genetic erosion. (AU)