Antibacterial activity of oleanolic and ursolic acids and their derivatives

• DOI: 10.2478/s11535-010-0045-x
• Publication Date: 2010-06-01T23:56:45Z
• Authors: Krystyna Wolska; Anna Grudniak; Beata Fiecek; Anna Kraczkiewicz...; Anna Kurek
• Keywords: Ursolic acid; Betulinic acid; Mode of Action

Abstract Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is increasing at an alarming rate and many commonly used are no longer effective. Thus, there considerable interest in investigating novel antibacterial compounds, such as the plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenoids, including oleanolic acid (OA), ursolic (UA) their derivatives. These compounds can be isolated from medicinal crop plants antibacterial, antiviral, antiulcer anti-inflammatory effects well documented. OA UA active against bacterial species, particularly Gram-positive mycobacteria. They inhibit growth survival, spectrum of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values very broad. In addition, OA, derivatives display potent antimutagenic activity. Studies identify cellular targets molecular mechanisms action were initiated a few years ago it has already been demonstrated that both acids influence gene expression, formation maintenance biofilms, cell autolysis peptidoglycan turnover. Before these clinically antimicrobial agents, further extensive studies required determine cytotoxicity optimum mode application.