Annonaceous acetogenins: A comparative analysis of insecticidal activity

Abstract

The Annonaceae family besides its commercial value ( Annona cherimola, , A. macroprophyllata, A. muricata, A. reticulata, A. purpurea , A. squamosa, Annona x atemoya) also produces several active secondary metabolites. Among these metabolites, Annonaceous acetogenins which are exclusive in this family, are reported with insecticidal activity on various species of insects that are crop pests and disease vectors. This review systematizes what is reported in the scientific literature about them: aspects such as the plant species from which the acetogenins come, and the insecticidal potential using the comparative activity index; it also takes into account lethality, morphological, physiological, and behavioral changes, including deterrent and anti-feeding effects. Eighty-five annonaceous acetogenins are documented on thirty species of insects, as well as toxic activities at various stages of development, broad-spectrum, and differential. The studies on Aedes aegypti (Diptera) and Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera) and the activity of squamocin on fifteen species of insects stand out. Annonaceous acetogenins are toxic at low concentrations, considering evaluation standards and comparison with commercial insecticides, and are active at various stages of insect development. The low proportion of studied species of the Annonaceae means the opportunity to find molecules with this biological potential, and an argument for its conservation.