Costa Rican Plants: Potential Source for Disease Treatments

Costa Rica's rich biodiversity may hold the key to developing treatments for serious diseases. The Technological Institute of Costa Rica (TEC) has partnered with the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (KRIBB) to explore the potential health benefits of native Costa Rican plants.

Dr. Laura Calvo Castro emphasized the identification of plant species with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. One promising study focuses on Phyllanthus acuminatus, known locally as "Chilillo." Researchers have identified compounds within this plant that exhibit potential anticancer activity.

This collaboration reinforces Costa Rica's significance as a valuable scientific research hub. The country's diverse flora, coupled with advanced research methodologies, could lead to significant breakthroughs in global healthcare. Technologies like hairy root production are being utilized to identify and propagate bioactive compounds for therapeutic applications.