Hunting Bioactive Molecules from the Agave Genus: An Update on Extraction and Biological Potential

Abstract

Agaves are plants used in the production of alcoholic beverages and fibers. Ever since ancient times, pre-Hispanic cultures in Mexico have used them in traditional medicine to cure different ailments. Over the years, studies of the active principles responsible for the therapeutic benefits of agaves have increased. Leaves and fibers are the main agro-wastes generated in tequila and mezcal production, while fibers are the main waste product in the textile sector. Different investigations have referred to the agro-waste from agave processing as a source of bioactive molecules called secondary metabolites (SM). Among them, phenols, flavonoids, phytosterols, and saponins have been extracted, identified, and isolated from these plants. The role of these molecules in pest control and the prospect of metabolites with the biological potential to develop novel drugs for chronic and acute diseases represent new opportunities to add value to these agro-wastes. This review aims to update the biological activities and recent applications of the secondary metabolites of the genus Agave.

Micropropagation of Seed-Derived Clonal Lines of the Endangered Agave marmorata Roezl and Their Compatibility with Endophytes

“…The certainty of identifying the molecules obtained from the shoot extracts was increased using commercial standards. All the molecules identified in this work have been reported in other agave species, with some being associated with biological properties such as disease control and new drug development for chronic and acute diseases [ 3 ].…”

“…These plants are hardy and capable of growing and reproducing in unfertile soils under low-water conditions for several months. Since ancient times humans have used agave plants as a source of food, drinks, medicines and fibers, and currently, they are a source of prebiotics such as agavins [ 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ]. Notably, more than ten years ago, a great interest in using agave plants and their residues (e.g., leaf fiber) emerged as an alternative to producing sustainable biofuels in Mexico and Australia [ 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 ].…”

Looking inside Mexican Traditional Food as Sources of Synbiotics for Developing Novel Functional Products

“…Mexican traditional food, such as the matrices we have described in this review, can promote diverse health effects acting as prebiotics, exerting specific activities on microbiota bacteria or probiotics, and being able to constitute synbiotic products as seen on Figure 2A. Detailed reports have shown the development of alimentary biotechnological products for alimentary purposes [122][123][124]. Several success stories can be highlighted here, where the use of one or more traditional food matrices is applied and can solve a necessity.…”

Agave angustifolia Haw. Leaves as a Potential Source of Bioactive Compounds: Extraction Optimization and Extract Characterization

“…It is known that the agave agro-wastes are potential sources of phytochemicals such as polyphenolic compounds [ 5 , 6 ]. Some studies have determined the phytochemical composition of different agave species using advanced analytical tools.…”