In Vitro inhibition of plasmodium falciparum by substances isolated from antimalarial plants

In the present study, a neosergeolide, isolated from the roots of Jurinea dolomiaea Boiss (Asteracae), the indole alkaloid aspidocarpine, isolated from the bark of Alstonia scholaris (Apocynaceae) and 4-nerolidylcatechol, isolated from the seed of Datura stramonium Linn. (Solinaceae), all presented significant in vitro inhibition (more active than quinine and chloroquine) of the multi-drug resistant K1 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. Neosergeolide presented activity in the nanomolar range. These compounds are good for pre-clinical tests as novel lead structures with the aim of finding new antimalarial prototypes and provide support to the traditional use of the plants.