UPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS and Antifungal Activity of a Fraction Enriched in Saponins From <i>Sarcomphalus joazeiro</i> Against <i>Candida</i> spp

The development of antifungal resistance is a complex process that involves the interaction between hosts, drugs, and microbial factors, all of which contribute to therapeutic ineffectiveness. For this reason, studies on natural products as possible therapeutic alternatives are increasingly necessary in order to gain a better understanding of plant compounds that may be more effective in treating infections caused by fungal pathogens. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the antifungal potential of the saponin-enriched fraction of the Sarcomphalus joazeiro species against the Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida krusei strains. The selection of this species for study is due to its rich phytochemical composition and the vast traditional knowledge of its medicinal properties. The fraction obtained from the stem bark of S. joazeiro was analyzed by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, in which compounds such as triterpenoids, flavonoids, acids, and saponins were identified. Therefore, the results obtained in this study contribute to understanding the antifungal potential of the S. joazeiro species fraction against fungal infections, especially those caused by Candida spp.