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PLOS One logoLink to PLOS One
. 2025 Mar 19;20(3):e0319524. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0319524

DNA Barcode, chemical analysis, and antioxidant activity of Psidium guineense from Ecuador

Joel Eduardo Vielma-Puente 1,*,#, Efrén Santos-Ordóñez 2,3,#, Xavier Cornejo 4,, Iván Chóez-Guaranda 2,, Ricardo Pacheco-Coello 2,, Liliana Villao-Uzho 2,, Christian Moreno-Alvarado 1,, Natalia Mendoza-Samaniego 1,, Yuraima Fonseca 5,
Editor: Hope Onohuean6
PMCID: PMC11922285  PMID: 40106513

Abstract

This study investigates the phytochemical, genetic, and antioxidant properties of Psidium guineense, a species native to the tropical dry forests of Ecuador. Leaves were collected, preserved in recognized herbaria, and subjected to Soxhlet extraction using polar and non-polar solvents. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of secondary metabolites, while GC-MS analysis detected chemical compounds in the extracts. Antioxidant assays demonstrated high phenolic (54.34 ± 0.49 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (6.43 ± 0.38 mg QE/g) content, with significant antioxidant activity in DPPH (0.57 ± 0.04 mg TE/g), FRAP (105.52 ± 6.85), and ABTS (1.25 ± 0.01 mg TE/g) assays. DNA barcoding of nine loci, (seven from the chloroplast genome and two nuclear genome) using a CTAB extraction protocol and PCR, provides the first genetic characterization of this species, contributing to genetic diversity assessments and phylogenetic studies. These findings underscore the importance of P. guineense as a source of potent bioactive compounds with significant antioxidant potential, highlighting its applicability in nutritional and pharmaceutical industries. Additionally, the genetic insights gained support efforts to expand DNA barcoding databases for tropical biodiversity conservation.

Introduction

Ecuador is known as a megadiverse country [1] and has an important number of ecosystems and endemic vascular plant species [2,3]. One of the most important ecosystems is the tropical dry forest, located in the center and south of the western region of Los Andes, in the provinces of Guayas, Esmeraldas, Manabí, Loja, Imbabura, and El Oro [4].

Species of the genus Psidium belonging to the Myrtaceae family, are found from Southern Mexico to Northern Argentina and Brazil [5] and are widely distributed in the Ecuadorian tropical dry forest, some species are considered endemic and could be of great interest in the pharmaceutical industry. Many Ecuadorian endemic plants are used traditionally by natives like medicinal plants to treat diseases [6].

Psidium guineense, commonly known as Brazilian guava or guayabilla, is a small tree or shrub native to tropical dry forests and mesophilic mountain forests [7]. The leaves are evergreen, oblong to ovate, or obovate, measuring between 3.5 to 14 cm in length and 2.5 to 8 cm in width. The upper surface of the leaves is somewhat hairy, while the underside is covered with pale or rusty hair and dotted with glands, giving them a greyish-green color. Flowers are white, typically borne singly or in clusters of three in the leaf axils, with numerous prominent stamens (150 to 200) that give them a bushy appearance [8]. The fruit is small, round, or pear-shaped, measuring between 1.0 to 2.5 cm in diameter, with a yellow skin and pale-yellowish flesh surrounding a white central pulp. The flavor is slightly acidic and resinous, reminiscent of strawberries or pineapple jam, and each fruit contains numerous small, hard seeds dispersed by birds and mammals [8].

Psidium guineense grows best in temperatures ranging from 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F) and is sensitive to frost, with young trees affected at temperatures below -3°C (27°F) [9]. The species is adapted to a range of altitudes, from coastal areas to higher terrains, and can grow in various soil types, making it capable of thriving in diverse environmental conditions [10].

Psidium species have been studied and shown pharmacological potential, reported in the treatment of diseases of diarrhea [11,12], dysentery [12], digestive system diseases [13], stomach pain [12], antimalarial [14], antiplasmodial [15], anti-inflammatory [16], antiparasitic [17], antimicrobial [16], larvicide [16] and others. Additionally, a high antioxidant potential has been documented in different species of the genus Psidium such as, Psidium guajava [16], Psidium friedrichsthalianum [18], Psidium cattleianum [19,20], Psidium guineense Swartz [21], Psidium acutangulum [22], Psidium laruotteanum [23], Psidium salutare [24], Psidium sobralianum [24], Psidium bahianum [25] is known.

Oxidative stress is a major factor in the development of many diseases such as diabetes [26,27], cancer [27], cardiovascular [28], neurological [29], and respiratory diseases [30].

Antioxidants have been proven to have an essential role in diseases by clearing reactive species in the body [31]. Polyphenols are known for their antioxidant properties [32], have gained significant attention in recent years as natural compounds that can mitigate oxidative stress. The genus Psidium is particularly notable for its chemical composition, which includes a wide variety of polyphenols [32,24], flavonoids [33], tannins [34], alkaloids [33], triterpenes [33], carotenoids [33], carbohydrates [20], fatty acids [20], and other bioactive compounds [35]. These components contribute to the genus pharmacological potential, including antioxidant activity, which is critical in addressing oxidative stress-related conditions.

Previous studies have identified that P. guineense leaf extracts possess bioactive compounds such as phenolics, and flavonoids [36,37]. Their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antimycobacterial properties have also been evaluated [3639]. The compounds may vary in their levels of bioactivity due to the environmental conditions to which each plant was exposed [40].

On the other hand, DNA barcodes could offer several benefits. This methodology is more accurate than morphological characteristics for identifying plant species, and more importantly, it could serve as a complement analysis for taxonomic identification. This is mainly because many plant species appear similar but could differ genetically. DNA barcodes allow scientists to overcome this problem and accurately and cost-effectively identify plant species. DNA barcoding can aid in conserving rare and endangered species and support research on plant evolution, ecology, and conservation, especially given the threats to biodiversity from human activities, pollution, deforestation, and resource depletion [41].

Thisstudy aims aphylogenetic identification ofPsidium guineense, analyze its chemical composition, and evaluate its antioxidant activity to assess its pharmaceutical potential. The study involve a comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition, phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of Psidium guineense, a species native to the tropical dry forests of Ecuador. Furthermore, for the first time, DNA barcodes were determined for nine loci (seven from the chloroplast genome and two for the nuclear genome). This achievement represents a significant fact for recognizing the phylogeny of the species, tracing its evolutionary origin, and predicting potential genetic variations.

Methods

Reagents

Methanol (99.9%), ethyl acetate (> 99.5%), dichloromethane (99.7%), and hexanes (95%) were obtained from Fisher Chemical. Hydrochloric acid (10 N) and ferric chloride hexahydrite (97%) were obtained from Fisher Scientific. 2,2,2-trifluoro-N-(trimethylsilyl) acetimidate (BSTFA) (98%), and Trolox (97%) were obtained from Thermo ScientificTM. 2,2-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) (99.4%) was obtained from Thermo Fisher Scientific. Folin & Ciocalteu´s phenol reagent was obtained from OttoKemi (2 N). Sodium carbonate anhydrous (99.5%), aluminum chloride (99%), 2,2-diphenyl-1pycrilhydrazyl (DPPH) (95%), potassium acetate (99%), and quercetin hydrate (97%) were obtained from Merck. Gallic acid (98%) was obtained from Titan Biotech. 2,4,6-tri(2-pyridyl)-1,3,5-triazine (TPTZ) (98.5%) was obtained from J&K Scientific. All reagents were used without prior purification.

Plant material

Leaves from P. guineense were collected on July 16, 2022, during the dry season in Colimes, Guayas Province-Ecuador (1°32´S, 80°0´W); the samples were collected in areas not protected by government entities; therefore, collection permits were not required. A part of them was frozen for DNA extraction and another part was cut into 1x1 cm squares, dried in an industrial try-dryer to 60°C, with airflow during 8 h, and used for extraction with different solvents. Voucher specimens are deposited in the Herbario GUAY, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Guayaquil, Ecuador, and New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) STEERE HERBARIUM, New York, USA [42].

Morphological analysis

Measurements are from the field, cultivated and GUAY herbarium specimens, morphological observations were performed with a stereoscope Olympus SZ51. The botanical terms used in the description of species follow Jackson B.D. [43].

Solvent extraction by Soxhlet apparatus

Chemical compounds were extracted using polar solvents (methanol, ethyl acetate, and dichloromethane) and a non-polar solvent (Hexane). Experiments were conducted to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the chemical compounds present in the leaves of the Psidium species under study. In the Soxhlet apparatus, 20 g of dry leaves and 200 mL of solvent were used. The extraction was performed for 2 hours at the reflux temperature of different solvents. The extract obtained was filtered and stored in a refrigerator at 3°C [44].

Qualitative phytochemical screening

For the phytochemical screening, 30 g of dried material was mixed with 90 mL of distilled water and macerated for 48 hours. The aqueous extracts were then divided into fractions for subsequent determination of secondary metabolites that might be present in the aqueous extract [45].

GC-MS analysis

P. guineense extracts were analyzed in a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry equipment Agilent Technologies (7890A GC system and 5975C inert XL MSD with triple axis detector) as described in previous studies [46]. A fused-silica capillary column DB-5MS (30 m × 0.25 mm) with phenyl dimethylpolysiloxane was used as the stationary phase (0.25-micron film thickness), and helium as the carrier gas (1.2 mL/min). Hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate extracts were injected directly. Methanol extracts were dried using a vacuum centrifuge concentrator, mixed with BSTFA, and incubated in a water bath at 80°C for 2 hours. After that, 1 µL of the samples was injected using the splitless mode at 250°C. The oven temperature was started at 70°C for 2 minutes, then it was increased to 285°C at 5°C/min. The MSD transfer line was 300°C, and the ion source temperature was 230°C. An electron ionization of 70 eV was used, and the compounds data was collected with the full scan mode (40-600 amu) in the quadrupole mass analyzer. Finally, compound identification was done by matching the mass spectra information with data available in Wiley 9, and NIST 2011 libraries.

DNA extraction and PCR

Leaves from collected samples from three specimens (biological replicates, coded as CIBE-019, CIBE-020, and CIBE021) were ground using liquid nitrogen in the grinder MM400 (Retsch, Haan, Germany) and stored at −80°C upon DNA extraction.

Approximately, 100 mg of leaf was used for DNA extraction using a CTAB protocol with some modifications [47]. PCR was conducted using the 2× GoTaq master mix (Cat. # M7123; Promega, Madison, WI, USA) using 0.5 μM of each primer (Table 1). The final volume was 30 μL per reaction. PCR conditions consisted of first 95°C for denaturation; followed by 35 cycles of: 95°C for 30 s, 60°C (for rbcL, psbA-trnH, rpoC1), 56°C (for matK, psbK-psbI, atpF-atpH, and ITS2), or 50°C (for rpoB and ITS1) for 30 s, 72°C for 90 s, with a final extension of 72°C for 5 min. Five microliters of PCR reaction were loaded on a 1.5% gel to check for the presence of amplicons. The remaining 25 μL were sequenced commercially after purification of PCR product (Macrogen, Rockville, MD, USA). At least two technical replicates were sequenced, and a consensus was constructed for each biological replicate.

Table 1. Primers used for PCR amplification of the DNA barcodes psbA-trnH spacer, psbK-psbI spacer, rpoB, rpoC1, atpF-atpH spacer, rbcL, matK, and ITS2.

Locups Primer pairs Sequence Annealing temperature Reference
psbA-trnH trnHf_05 CGCGCATGGTGGATTCACAATCC 60°C [48]
psbA3_f GTTATGCATGAACGTAATGCTC
psbK-psbI psbK_F TTAGCCTTTGTTTGGCAAG 56°C [48]
psbI_R AGAGTTTGAGAGTAAGCAT
rpoB rpoB_2F ATGCAACGTCAAGCAGTTCC 50°C [48]
rpoB_3R CCGTATGTGAAAAGAAGTATA
rpoC1 rpoC1_2F GGCAAAGAGGGAAGATTTCG 60°C [48]
rpoC1_4R CCATAAGCATATCTTGAGTTGG
atpF-atpH atpF_F ACTCGCACACACTCCCTTTCC 56°C [49,50]
atpH_R GCTTTTATGGAAGCTTTAACAAT
rbcL rbcLA_F ATGTCACCACAAACAGAGACTAAAGC 60°C [51]
rbcLA_R GTAAAATCAAGTCCACCRCG
matK matK_3F_KIMF CGTACAGTACTTTTGTGTTTACGAG 56°C [50,48]
matK_1R_KIMR ACCCAGTCCATCTGGAAATCTTGGTTC
ITS1 ITS 5a F CCTTATCATTTAGAGGAAGGAG 50°C [52]
ITS 4 R TCCTCCGCTTATTGATATGC
ITS2 S2F ATGCGATACTTGGTGTGAAT 56°C [52]
S3R GACGCTTCTCCAGACTACAAT

Bioinformatics analysis of sequences

Sequences were trimmed manually using MEGAX after alignment [51]. Processed sequences were blasted (25th September 2023) in the GenBank using the nucleotide database [52]. Sequences from the blast analysis were selected for phylogenetic analysis using MEGAX. For each barcode, the recommended model from the MEGAX was used for phylogenetic analysis after alignment with MUSCLE. The aligned sequences were trimmed at the ends to allow for all sequences to maintain the same range. For the phylogenetic analysis, the Maximum Likelihood method was used for each barcode using a bootstrap test (1000 replicates).

Total phenolic content

The total phenolic content was estimated by the Folin-Ciocalteu method reported by Avramova et al. 2017 with modifications [53]. In this procedure, 20 μL of aqueous extract or standard was mixed with 100 μL of 10% (v/v) Folin-Ciocalteu reagent solution, and 80 μL of 7.5% (w/v) sodium carbonate into a 96-well plate. The reaction was incubated for 1 hour in darkness, and the absorbance was measured at 765 nm against a blank in a Biotek Synergy HTX multi-mode microplate reader with a UV-VIS detector (Vermont, USA). The results were expressed as milligrams of gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per gram of dry weight according to the equation y=0.0059x0.0006(R2 = 0.9992) obtained from the standard gallic acid calibration curve (10 – 200 μg/mL).

Total flavonoid content

The total flavonoid content was estimated by the aluminum chloride method reported by Avramova et al. 2017 with modifications [54]. For this, 20 μL of aqueous extract or standard was mixed with 10 μL of 10% (w/v) aluminum chloride, 10 μL of 1M potassium acetate, 60 μL of methanol, and 120 μL of distilled water into a 96-well plate. The reaction was incubated for 30 minutes in darkness, and the absorbance was measured at 415 nm against a blank in a Biotek Synergy HTX multi-mode microplate reader with a UV-VIS detector (Vermont, USA). The results were expressed as milligrams of quercetin equivalents (GAE) per gram of dry weight according to the equation y=0.0051x0.0275 (R2 = 0.9909) obtained from the quercetin calibration curve (10 – 100 μg/mL).

Antioxidant activity

ABTS radical cation inhibition assay.

The ABTS radical cation inhibition activity was measured according to the methodology described by Viteri et al. 2022 [54]. An aliquot of 50 μL of the aqueous extract or standard was mixed with 150 µL of a 156 μM ABTS radical cation solution. The reaction was incubated in darkness for 30 minutes and the absorbance was measured at 732 nm against a blank in a Biotek Synergy HTX multi-mode microplate reader with a UV-VIS detector (Vermont, USA). The ABTS radical cation stock solution was prepared by reacting 7 mM ABTS with 3.6 mM potassium persulfate and incubating it in darkness for 24 hours before use. Then, the stock solution was diluted in water to obtain a final concentration of 156 μM. The results were expressed as milligrams of Trolox equivalents (TE) per gram of dry weight according to the equation y=0.5808x0.1467 (R2 = 0.9936) obtained from the Trolox calibration curve (20 – 180 μmol/L).

DPPH radical scavenging assay.

The DPPH radical scavenging activity was measured following the procedure described by Viteri et al. 2022 with some modifications [54]. Briefly, 50 μL of the aqueous extract or standard was mixed with 150 µL of a 0.1 mM DPPH solution in a 96-well plate. The reaction was incubated in darkness for 30 minutes, and the absorbance was measured at 517 nm against a blank in a Biotek Synergy HTX multi-mode microplate reader with a UV-VIS detector (Vermont, USA). The results were expressed as milligrams of Trolox equivalents (TE) per gram of dry weight according to the equation y=0.7853x35.622 (R2 = 0.9868) obtained from the Trolox calibration curve (60 – 180 μmol/L).

Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay.

The ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) was measured according to the methodology described by Hozzein et al. 2020 with some modifications [55]. Briefly, 20 μL of the aqueous extract or standard was mixed with 180 μL of FRAP reagent mix in a 96-well plate. The FRAP reagent mix was prepared the day of the reaction using a 10:1:1 (v/v/v) proportion of 300 mM acetate buffer (pH 3.6), 10 mM TPTZ solution dissolved in 40 mM hydrochloric acid, and 20 mM ferric chloride dissolved in water. The reaction was incubated in darkness for 20 minutes, and the absorbance was measured at 600 nm against a blank in a Biotek Synergy HTX multi-mode microplate reader with a UV-VIS detector (Vermont, USA). The results were expressed as milligrams of Trolox equivalents (TE) per gram of dry weight according to the equation y=0.0024x+0.1274 (R2 = 0.9897) obtained from the Trolox calibration curve (50 – 1000 μmol/L).

Results and discussion

Morphological evaluation

Shrubs to low trees up to 5 meters high, with tomentulose or subtomentose twigs, lower leaf surfaces, and flower buds; young twigs terete to complanate, but not angled. LEAVES simple, opposite, the blade elliptic to oblong, 7–11 x 3–7 cm, the margins entire; apex shortly acuminate to broadly obtuse; base inconspicuously subcordate to broadly cuneate; petiole 4–8 mm long, more or less channeled; venation brochidodromous, the lateral veins 7–11 pairs. FLOWER BUDS conspicuously constricted, ovate to globose in the distal half. CALYX closed in the bud, acuminate at apex, longitudinally tearing in distal half, tomentulose to subtomentose without; petals white, glabrous to pilose without; stamens 150–300. FRUIT obovate to subglobose, 1–3 cm in diameter, epicarp 1–2.5 mm thick.

Qualitative phytochemical screening

The identification of phytochemicals in P. guineense leaves is a fundamental starting point for evaluating their nutritional and biological properties. Phytochemical screening detected catechins, saponins, triterpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, alkaloids, reducing sugars, tannins, phenolic compounds, and oils and fats (Table 2). Ethereal, alcoholic, and aqueous extracts had high alkaloid content, these compounds are useful as diet ingredients [56], supplements, and pharmaceuticals [57,58], in medicine and other biological applications.

Table 2. Qualitative phytochemical screening of P. guineense in ethereal, alcoholic, and aqueous extracts.

Compound detected Inference
Ethereal extract Alcoholic extract Aqueous extract
Catechins ND + ND
Coumarins and lactones - ND ND
Resins ND - ND
Lactones ND - ND
Oils and fats + ND ND
Saponins ND - +
Quinones ND - ND
Triterpenoids and steroids + + ND
Flavonoids ND - +
Anthocyanidins ND - ND
Alkaloids (Dragendorff) ++ +++ -
Alkaloids (Wagner) ++ - +++
Alkaloids (Mayer) - - +++
Reducing sugars ND + -
Tannins and phenolic compounds ND +c +f
Mucilages ND ND -

- = Absent; + = Present; ++ = Moderate amount; +++= Highly Present.

+f = Present in form of phenolic compounds; +c = Present in form of pyrocatechol tannins.

ND = Not determined.

Table 2 highlights the presence of key bioactive compounds associated with antioxidant activity, particularly in the alcoholic and aqueous extracts. Flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, and catechins—detected predominantly in these extracts—are well-documented for their ability to neutralize free radicals, prevent lipid peroxidation, and protect against oxidative damage at the cellular level [59,60]. For example, flavonoids detected in the aqueous extract are known to play a vital role in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby mitigating oxidative stress and its associated health implications, such as chronic inflammation and degenerative diseases [61].

The high presence of phenolic compounds in both the alcoholic and aqueous extracts further supports their strong antioxidant potential. The tannins detected in these extracts are also crucial contributors to antioxidant activity, with evidence suggesting their role in chelating metal ions [62,63] and scavenging free radicals effectively neutralizing them and preventing oxidative damage [63,64].

Catechins were detected in the alcoholic extract. Catechins are significant contributors to antioxidant activity due to their ability to scavenge free radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation [65,66]. Their potency often exceeds that of other polyphenols, making them valuable for health promotion and disease prevention [66,67].

Ethereal extract showed lower levels of antioxidant-related phytochemicals. It primarily contained compounds such as oils and fats, triterpenoids, and steroids. Although these compounds are not direct antioxidants, they contribute to enhancing antioxidant pathways. The ability of triterpenoids and steroids to interact with biological pathways related to lipid metabolism positions them as potential treatments for metabolic disorders [68,69]. They are associated with anti-inflammatory and membrane-protective effects, attributed to their ability to stabilize cell membranes and mitigate oxidative stress [68,70,71].

The absence or non-detection (ND) of certain compounds in specific extracts reflects the limitations of each solvent in extracting compounds beyond its polarity spectrum. This underscores the importance of using multiple extraction methods to comprehensively profile the phytochemical composition of P. guineense and to maximize the recovery of compounds with desired antioxidant activities. The alcoholic extract appears to offer the most balanced profile, combining lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidants, while the aqueous extract emphasizes hydrophilic compounds with potent ROS-scavenging abilities.

GC-MS analysis

A total of 65 compounds were identified in the extract of P. guineense leaves by GC-MS analysis applying different solvents which are shown in Table 3. Among these compounds, alkanes, alkenes, monoterpenes, diterpenes, carboxylic acids, sesquiterpenes, and oxygenated sesquiterpenes were with their peak area values and retention times reported for each solvent. It was experimentally identified that the only sesquiterpene obtained with at least three solvents (hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate) was alpha-copaene.

Table 3. Compounds detected by GC-MS.

Solvents Hexane Dichloromethane Ethyl Acetate Methanol
Compound Detected Peak area (%) Retention Time (estimated) Peak area (%) Retention Time (estimated) Peak area (%) Retention Time (estimated) Peak area (%) Retention Time (estimated)
1 α-Copaene 10.26 15.174 8.91 11.987 1.36 15.123 Nd Nd
2 Caryophyllene 6.79 16.319 1.05 15.161 Nd Nd 0.60 16.294
3 α-Curcumene 1.37 17.814 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
4 β-Bisabolene 3.18 18.457 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
5 2, 6, 10-Dodecatrienoic Acid Nd 24.577 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
6 Neophytadiene 2.36 25.799 5.04 25.824 2.73 25.760 Nd Nd
7 Dibutyl Phthalate 2.50 28.063 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
8 Hexadecanoic Acid 3.14 28.382 2.95 28.445 13.76 28.324 Nd Nd
9 Phytol 4.54 31.054 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
10 Nonadecane 1.21 34.413 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
11 9-Octadecenamide 14.16 35.348 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
12 Docosane 1.73 36.060 0.61 32.688 Nd Nd Nd Nd
13 Heneicosane 1.77 37.651 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
14 Hexacosane 2.02 39.178 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
15 Heptacosane 1.73 40.686 0.76 40.654 Nd Nd Nd Nd
16 Eicosane 1.12 42.079 Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd
17 Benzeneacetic Acid Nd Nd 2.21 11.987 Nd Nd Nd Nd
18 Alloaromadendrene Nd Nd 1.24 17.254 Nd Nd Nd Nd
19 α-Amorphene Nd Nd 0.82 17.611 Nd Nd Nd Nd
20 β-Selinene Nd Nd 1.06 18.018 Nd Nd Nd Nd
21 α-Muurolene Nd Nd 0.60 18.190 Nd Nd Nd Nd
22 γ-Muurolene Nd Nd 0.35 18.539 Nd Nd Nd Nd
23 1s,Cis-Calamenene Nd Nd 1.22 18.737 Nd Nd Nd Nd
24 α-Calacorene Nd Nd 0.87 19.201 Nd Nd Nd Nd
25 Caryophyllene Oxide Nd Nd 2.92 20.206 Nd Nd Nd Nd
26 β-Copaen-4-α-Ol Nd Nd 1.78 21.650 Nd Nd Nd Nd
27 Copaene Nd Nd 1.78 21.650 Nd Nd Nd Nd
28 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4- (1-methyl-1-phenylethyl)phenol, Nd Nd 0.63 29.355 Nd Nd
29 Phytol Nd Nd 0.48 31.022 1.64 31.022 Nd Nd
30 Octadecanoic Acid Nd Nd 0.75 32.084 1.85 31.995 Nd Nd
31 Tricosane Nd Nd 0.84 34.406 Nd Nd Nd Nd
32 Eicosanoic Acid Nd Nd 0.45 35.437 Nd Nd Nd Nd
33 Tetracosane Nd Nd 1.00 36.060 Nd Nd Nd Nd
34 Pentacosane Nd Nd 1.06 37.651 Nd Nd Nd Nd
35 Tricosane Nd Nd 1.50 39.178 Nd Nd Nd Nd
36 Octacosane Nd Nd 1.03 42.072 Nd Nd Nd Nd
37 Triacontane Nd Nd 0.28 44.783 Nd Nd Nd Nd
38 Vitamin E Nd Nd 0.37 47.232 Nd Nd Nd Nd
39 γ-Sitosterol Nd Nd 1.66 48.498 5.40 48.498 Nd Nd
40 8-Methyl(6)(2,4)Thiophenophane Nd Nd Nd Nd 2.69 19.615 Nd Nd
41 (-)-Loliolide Nd Nd Nd Nd 1.22 24.297 Nd Nd
42 9-Octadecenoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd 3.15 31.537 Nd Nd
43 9-Octadecenamide Nd Nd Nd Nd 7.55 35.310 20.51 35.481
44 Heptanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.05 9.811
45 Benzoic Acid Trimethylsilyl Ester Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.34 11.764
46 Butanedioic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.17 13.558
47 Propanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.10 13.984
48 Butanedioic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.30 17.992
49 L-Threonic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.15 19.742
50 Hexadecane Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.08 20.652
51 Dodecanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.14 21.816
52 Benzoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 1.30 25.391
53 Tetradecanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.98 26.040
54 7,9-ditertbutyl-1-oxaspiro [4.5]deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 2.26 27.115
55 N-Pentadecanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.11 28.006
56 Oleanitrile Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.83 30.494
57 Octadecoxy-Trimethylsilane Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.66 31.951
58 Hexadecanamide Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 1.26 32.275
59 Oleic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 1.94 32.968
60 11-Trans-Octadecenoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.53 33.089
61 Octadecanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 16.05 33.496
62 Nonadecanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.11 35.125
63 Eicosanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.25 36.735
64 Docosanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.93 39.782
65 Tetracosanoic Acid Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd Nd 0.17 42.613
Total 57.94 44.98 41.35 55.53
Sesquiterpene 21.6 17.9 1.36 0.60
Sesquiterpene oxygenated 3.44 5.40

ND = Not determinated

Based on the GC-MS data, the solvents yielding the highest percentages of sesquiterpenes were as follows: Hexane (21.6%), Dichloromethane (17.9%), Ethyl Acetate (1.36%), and Methanol (0.60%). Among these, alpha-copaene was the most prominent chemical constituent, accounting for 10.26%, followed by caryophyllene at 6.79%. Other studies performed in Sri Lanka have reported a lower amount of sesquiterpenes (6.1%) in P. guineense using hexane as the solvent, with caryophyllene (1.4%) and copaene (1.4%) being the most prominent constituents [72]. In contrast, the only oxygenated sesquiterpene identified with at least two solvents (dichloromethane at 1.66% and ethyl acetate at 5.40%) was gamma-sitosterol. Another study conducted in Egypt, which compared the chemical profiles of different Psidium guajava varieties, reported low amounts of caryophyllene oxide (< 0.96%) [73], while for P. guineense native of Ecuador, a value of 2.92% was identified in its composition.

The many properties identified in the numerous bioactive compounds are valuable for a range of applications. Copaene has demonstrated antioxidant [74], anticancer, and antigenotoxic effects. Caryophyllene has been reported to possess anticancer, analgesic [74], anti-inflammatory [74], antioxidant [74], antimicrobial [74] activities. There is variability in the quantity and quality of chemical constituents among different P. guineense species, which can be attributed to exogenous factors such as climatic conditions [40], and soil properties [72]; in addition to endogenous variables such as physiological [73], genetic [24], and anatomical factors [73].

DNA barcode analysis

PCR amplification was detected for all the nine DNA barcodes tested. The best hit for all sequences for each barcode is indicated (S1 Table). BLAST analysis indicated the presence of Psidium spp. using the sequences available in the nr database, including plastid genomes and single locus sequences.

The best model for nucleotide substitution, obtained after alignment of the sequences, which were: T92 (psbA-trnH, psbK-psbI, atpF-atpH, and matK), JC (rpoB, rpoC1, and rbcL), T92+G (ITS1), and K2+G (ITS2). Phylogenetic analysis for psbA-trnH showed that all the Psidium spp. are in a clade with a bootstrap value of 90 (Fig 1). For the DNA barcode psbK-psbI, the three biological replicates of P. guineense are in a clade with a bootstrap value of 99 (S1 Fig). Furthermore, the atpF-atpH phylogenetic tree showed that the three P. guineense from Ecuador are grouped in a clade with other Psidium species with a bootstrap value of 93 (S1 Fig). For the rpoB, the phylogenetic tree revealed that differentiation between different Psidium species and even other genera could not be achieved (Fig 2).

Fig 1. Phylogenetic tree of the psbA-trnH barcode with accessions from the genus Psidium spp. and different genera selected from the blastn results.

Fig 1

Fig 2. Phylogenetic tree of the rpoB barcode with accessions from the genus Psidium spp. and different genera selected from the blastn results.

Fig 2

The phylogenetic tree of rpoC1 showed that the three P. guineense are grouped in a clade but due to the absence of Psidium spp. sequences in the GenBank for rpoC1 is not possible to determine genetic diversity between species of the same genera (S1 Fig). The phylogenetic tree with the rbcL barcode shows that all accessions from the genus Psidium are in one clade, indicating that rbcL could be used to discriminate between different genera but not different species from the genus Psidium (Fig 3). On the other hand, the barcode matK could be used to differentiate between different species of Psidium, as different clades are formed, especially of P. guajava and P. guineense, except for the accession of P. guineense JQ588513 (Fig 4). The ITS1 barcode showed different clades for different species of Psidium, where the P. guineense from Ecuador are in clades with 99 and 98 bootstrap values (Fig 5). For the ITS2 barcode, the P. guineense from Ecuador are grouped with bootstrap values of 99 and 98 (S1 Fig); however, not all Psidium species from the Genbank were clustered in a clade (S1 Fig).

Fig 3. Phylogenetic tree of the rbcL barcode with accessions from the genus Psidium spp. and different genera selected from the blastn results.

Fig 3

Fig 4. Phylogenetic tree of the matK barcode with accessions from the genus Psidium spp. and different genera selected from the blastn results.

Fig 4

Fig 5. Phylogenetic tree of the ITS1 barcode with accessions from the genus Psidium spp. and different genera selected from the blastn results.

Fig 5

Genetic analysis has emerged as a crucial tool in the standardization of medicinal plants. Characterization of plant species at the genotypic level is essential, as many plants can exhibit significant variations in their physical characteristics even within the same genus and species. DNA analysis is a valuable method for identifying cells, individuals, or species, with the potential to distinguish authentic from adulterated drugs, as discussed by Kumari and Kotecha’s study [75]. Various techniques could be employed for genotyping in plants. These include microsatellite markers [7678], as well as molecular techniques such as genome-wide approaches [79], and transcriptome analysis [80].

Our findings indicate that the rpoB and rbcL barcodes lack accuracy to differentiate at the species level, while for rpoC1 there are no sequences at the GenBank from Psidium species and therefore, could not be concluded that this barcode could be used for different at the species level. For the barcodes psbA-trnH, psbK-psbI and atpF-atpH showed differentiation with other Psidium species, although more Psidium sequences should be available at the Genbank for a better analysis. The matK barcode showed differences at the Psidium species but for some species, they did not form a clade.

In contrast, the ITS1 and ITS2 exhibit improved species-level resolution for Psidium species. Other reports suggest that ITS2 provides superior resolution for identifying species in medicinal plants [8185].

Future research efforts should involve the sequencing of specific genetic markers for various Psidium species located in Ecuador, while including biological replicates. Subsequent investigations should focus on establishing a robust DNA barcode analysis and exploring various combinations of two genetic loci to determine the most effective barcode for species identification within the Psidium species.

Total phenolics and flavonoids content and antioxidant activity

Phenolic compounds, such as phenolic acids, tannins, flavonoids, and others, are considered the most important phytochemical compounds produced by plants. These compounds exist in various parts of the plant, and their amounts depend significantly on factors such as the type of plant organ, climate, variety, and location. The leaf extract of P. guineense native to the tropical dry forest of Ecuador presents high phenolic and flavonoid content: 54.34 ± 0.49 mg of GAE/g of dried weight and 6.43 ± 0.38 mg QE/g dry weight respectively (Table 4). In a previous study conducted in Ecuador on thirteen native plants of Guayas, phenolic content values of Psidium guayaquilense and Psidium rostratum leaf extracts were reported, obtaining values of 941.97 ± 30.60 mg GAE/ g dry extract and 591.34 ± 24.31 mg GAE/g dry extract, respectively. However, the P. guineense variety was not analyzed [86].

Table 4. Antioxidant activity of Psidium species aqueous extracts.

ABTS radical cation inhibition activity
(mg TE/g)
DPPH radical scavenging activity
(mg TE/g)
Ferric reducing
antioxidant power
(mg TE/g)
Total phenolic content
(mg GAE/g)
Total flavonoid
content
(mg QE/g)
1.25 ± 0.01 0.57 ± 0.04 105.52 ± 4.84 54.34 ± 0.49 6.43 ± 0.27

The study carried out in the western province of Sri Lanka reported that the total phenol content in P. guineense leaf extract is 195.25 ± 9.56 mg GAE/g [87].

All values are mean ± standard deviation (n=3). ABTS radical cation inhibition activity, DPPH radical scavenging activity, and Ferric reducing antioxidant power values are expressed as mg of Trolox equivalent/g of dried weight. Total phenolic content values are expressed as mg of gallic acid equivalent/g of dried weight. Total flavonoid content values are expressed as mg of quercetin equivalent/g of dried weight. All Data for the calibration curves and results obtained from the samples are available as Supporting Information (S2 Table).

On the other hand, the antioxidant activity of P. guineense found in its study is summarized in Table 4, which shows a high antioxidant activity based on the Trolox standard [88]

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the bioactive potential of Psidium guineense leaf extract through a comprehensive analysis of its chemical profile, phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity. The high phenolic content observed in the extract support the established correlation between phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity, confirming the extract’s potential health-promoting properties.

In terms of genetic characterization, the matK and ITS1 barcodes have demonstrated their utility in distinguishing P. guineense at species levels when compared with available GenBank sequences. However, further studies incorporating additional Psidium species area required to evaluate the effectiveness of the psbK-psbI, atpF-atpH, rpoC1, and ITS2 barcodes for species level identification. The rbcL barcode, on the other hand, proves to be reliable for differentiation at the genus level.

Supporting information

S1 Table. Blastn analysis for nine different DNA barcodes of Psidium guineense plants (CIBE-019, CIBE-020, CIBE-021). Results were ranked for the first two with the highest percentage of identity.

(XLSX)

pone.0319524.s001.xls (49.5KB, xls)
S1 Fig. Phylogenetic trees of Psidium guineense from Ecuador.

(TIF)

pone.0319524.s002.tif (468.7KB, tif)
S2 Table. Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content-Antioxidant Activity of Psidium guineense.

(XLSX)

pone.0319524.s003.xlsx (57.9KB, xlsx)

Data Availability

All relevant data are within the manuscript and its Supporting Information files.

Funding Statement

Funding was provided by the Research Dean of ESPOL, Project: FCNM-17-2018. Received by the Project Director J. Vielma.

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Associated Data

This section collects any data citations, data availability statements, or supplementary materials included in this article.

Supplementary Materials

S1 Table. Blastn analysis for nine different DNA barcodes of Psidium guineense plants (CIBE-019, CIBE-020, CIBE-021). Results were ranked for the first two with the highest percentage of identity.

(XLSX)

pone.0319524.s001.xls (49.5KB, xls)
S1 Fig. Phylogenetic trees of Psidium guineense from Ecuador.

(TIF)

pone.0319524.s002.tif (468.7KB, tif)
S2 Table. Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content-Antioxidant Activity of Psidium guineense.

(XLSX)

pone.0319524.s003.xlsx (57.9KB, xlsx)

Data Availability Statement

All relevant data are within the manuscript and its Supporting Information files.


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