Bioquímica y Farmacia-Pregrado

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://dspace-test.ucuenca.edu.ec/handle/123456789/280

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Valor predictivo de los marcadores tumorales CA 15.3 y CEA en el control y seguimiento de pacientes con cáncer de mama en el Hospital de Especialidades José Carrasco Arteaga en el período 2016-2019
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2022-10-19) Sinche Montaleza, Bryan Rómulo; Aucapiña Guamán, Juan Diego; Neira Molina, Vivian Alejandra
Background: Breast cancer is one of the most frequent pathologies in women, with more than 2.3 million cases in 2020 and an incidence rate of 132 cases per 100 000 inhabitants. It is the second most frequent malignant neoplasm in the female population of Cuenca, with the highest incidence rate in the period 2010-2014, according to statistics from SOLCA, Cuenca. CA 15.3 and CEA have been found to contribute significantly in the control, follow-up and prognosis of the disease. Objective: To analyze and compare CA 15.3 and CEA markers to evaluate the response to treatment and follow-up of breast cancer in patients attending the Hospital de Especialidades José Carrasco Arteaga in the period 2016-2019. Methodology: The present investigation is an evaluation of the efficacy of a clinical test in the control and follow-up of patients with breast cancer. Data were collected from the patients' medical records according to the inclusion criteria, using the MIS AS 400 system and tabulated in Excel. Subsequently, the data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics using R Studio, IBM SPSS V22 and Microsoft Excel. Results: The most frequent type of cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma (62.58%) and the most common stage is IIB (23.13%). CA 15.3 has an SE: (0.81), SP: (0.93), PPV: (0.81) and NPV: (0.93), while CEA has an SE: (0.75), SP: (0.87), PPV: (0.60) and NPV: (0.93), CA15.3-CEA has an SE: (0.80), SP: (0.97), PPV: (0.80) and NPV: (0.97). The cut-off points were: CA 15.3 (29.41 U/mL), CEA (2.71 ng/mL) and jointly (19.84 U/mL and 2.58 ng/mL). It was established that there is a relationship between the concentration of the tumor marker and the presence of metastasis (p<0.05). Likewise, the existence of a relationship between stage and survival rate was confirmed (p<0.05) and a relationship between the increase in concentration and stage was evidenced. Conclusions: It was determined that CA 15.3 has higher SE, SP, PPV and NPV than CEA. Finally, the association CA15.3-CEA improves the parameters and justifies its use in clinical practice to evaluate the treatment, follow-up and prognosis of the patient.
Control de calidad del extracto seco de desmodium molliculum
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-08) Guayara Granda, Samantha Michelle; Romero Bermejo, Tania Maribel; Peñaherrera Wilches, María Eugenia
Desmodium molliculum, known in Ecuador as “hierba del infante,” is a plant widely used in traditional Andean medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of the dry extract obtained from the aerial parts of the plant through the determination of physicochemical, microbiological, and qualitative phytochemical parameters. The plant material was collected in the province of Azuay and processed by percolation, followed by defatting with n-hexane and lyophilization. The physicochemical parameters obtained (moisture: 0.95%; total ash: 4.11%; acid-insoluble ash: 1.36%; water- insoluble ash: 0.90%) were found to be within the limits established by international pharmacopoeias. The foam index was low, indicating a scarce presence of saponins. The microbiological analysis confirmed the absence of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, molds, and yeasts, and revealed an acceptable load of mesophilic aerobes, in compliance with WHO standards for herbal products. The results support the quality of the dry extract of D. molliculum, positioning it as a safe and suitable raw material for the development of phytotherapeutic products.
Seguridad y eficacia del cenobamato como coadyuvante en el tratamiento de la epilepsia focal
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-08) Calderón Pineda, Paula Mayerly; Guillén Ávila, Paola Vanessa; Ochoa Castro, Maritza Raphaela
Epilepsy is a disorder in which the activity of nerve cells in the brain is interrupted, manifesting with recurrent seizures that are classified into localized and focal seizures, therefore focal epilepsy will be analyzed, which is a chronic neurological condition that affects the quality of life of millions of people in the world. Despite advances in the development of pharmacological treatments, approximately a quarter of patients do not respond adequately to conventional antiepileptic drugs. Consequently, the safety and efficacy of cenobamate as an adjunctive treatment in patients with focal epilepsy is evaluated through a literature review with eight clinical trials classified as high quality studies according to the CONSORT Guide, which showed cenobamate to be safe and effective for the treatment of focal epilepsy compared to a concomitant drug and a placebo, dizziness, somnolence and fatigue being the most common and unavoidable adverse events and with an efficacy rate of more than 50% in terms of seizure reduction.
Aplicación del sistema de categorización LanguaLTM como herramienta de estandarización descriptiva de la “tabla composición de alimentos de Cuenca, Ecuador”
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Freire Benenaula, Sofía Isabel; Toalongo Morquecho, Juan Andres; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana; Saquicela Carpio, Jorge Eduardo
The LanguaLTM tool is a thesaurus developed to classify and describe different types of food products. It is used worldwide and enables the exchange of food composition data between different regions of the world. This thesis work is oriented towards the application of the LanguaLTM categorization system in order to standardize foods of Andean origin that are presented in the 2018 edition Food Composition Table of Cuenca, Ecuador. In addition, a standard protocol was developed for the categorization of foods of local origin, facilitating the coding of 129 foods. The results obtained evidenced limitations in some foods of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and regional food patterns were found. Systematization facilitates the communication of data between platforms in an international manner, promoting food sovereignty and optimizing the creation of food policies. The implementation of this methodology improves the efficient and accurate interpretation of nutritional information in the country.
Desarrollo de una estrategia participativa de capacitación sobre inocuidad alimentaria para vendedores ambulantes en la ciudad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Samaniego Loaiza, Luis Alfredo; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana
Street food vending, predominantly in developing countries, has been linked to inadequate hygiene and handling practices that contribute to the risk of contamination by pathogens and foodborne diseases. In the local context, street vending represents an accessible economic alternative to unemployment. This activity faces limitations such as the lack of basic infrastructure and knowledge of good food safety practices. In this degree project, the design and implementation of a participatory training strategy on food safety for street vendors in the city of Cuenca is proposed. The proposed strategy included an audiovisual component based on a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), previously developed by the Department of Biosciences, University of Cuenca, and the Consortium for Food Safety in Ecuador. In addition, discussion spaces were included to share experiences and put the theoretical content into practice. This work is considered as a training pilot, which will allow to explore the acceptance of this training strategy and, in the future, to propose multidisciplinary solutions to the problem of lack of food safety in the population of street vendors for their social and economic welfare.
Análisis de la composición de la quinua cruda, cocida y tostada
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-04) Mejía Quizhpi, Liliana Elizabeth; Pillajo Pérez, Cristina Raquel; Ortiz Ulloa, Silvia Johana
Quinoa is a pseudocereal considered a superfood due to its high nutritional content and bioactive compounds. The objective of this undergraduate thesis was to evaluate the nutritional composition of quinoa sold in the city of Cuenca in its raw, cooked, and toasted forms. Samples of raw quinoa were collected from different points of sale following a random sampling method. A composite sample was prepared, and from this, a portion was taken to be subjected to cooking in water and another to a toasting process, both at a laboratory level. In the three types of quinoa samples, the proximate composition (total carbohydrates, total lipids, total proteins, moisture, and ash) was determined in triplicate. Additionally, the mineral composition was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results obtained showed that cooked quinoa presented the lowest values in ash content (0.5%), fats (1.9%), and proteins (4.7%), while moisture increased from 12.0 to 78.6% due to the absorption of cooking water, causing a loss of minerals by leaching. In toasted quinoa, the mineral content increased, with Ca showing the highest increment (1.3 times). In conclusion, the composition of quinoa can be affected by the cooking process, while in the toasted form it presents a slight increase in proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals due to the drying of the grain, which is why this preparation is the most recommended for a daily diet.
Identificación de la presencia de ácido(s) aristolóquico(s) en la planta Zaragoza de los cantones Sucúa y Macas, provincia de Morona Santiago
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Carchipulla Llivichuzhca, Hernán Aníbal; Orellana Ordoñez, Luisa Maribel; Mora Bravo, Lorena Viviana
Traditional Ecuadorian medicine has used plants of the genus Aristolochia spp., known locally as "Zaragoza," for their therapeutic properties for generations. However, studies warn of the presence of aristolochic acids (AA-I and AA-II), nephrotoxic and carcinogenic compounds in these plants, which pose a health risk. This study qualitatively determined the presence of these compounds in leaf, stem, and bark samples from Zaragoza plants collected in the cantons of Sucúa and Macas, Morona Santiago province, using traditional extraction techniques (infusion and decoction) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis. The results show Rf values of 0.5–0.6 for AA-I and 0.4–0.5 for AA-II, with a blue green color under UV light at 366 nm, confirming their presence in 14 of 18 samples by decoction and 9 of 18 by infusion. The results indicated that the decoction was more effective than the infusion for AA extraction, likely due to the prolonged heating, which may have facilitated the release of these compounds. The plant bark presented greater chromatographic intensity, indicating higher AA concentrations. These findings highlight the risk of continued use of Aristolochia in traditional medicine and underscore the need to regulate its consumption and educate communities about its toxicity, contributing to a safer use of these plants.
Papel de la Fosfatasa Alcalina como marcador diagnóstico de osteoporosis. Revisión bibliográfica
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Redrován Marrett, Arlette Andrea; Zamora Burbano, Zulma Beatriz
Osteoporosis is a disease of the skeletal system that primarily affects adults and has a significant impact on quality of life by deteriorating functional anatomy and causing a high degree of disability. It is responsible for approximately 80% of fractures in adults, due to its asymptomatic progression. This study emphasizes the need for effective diagnostic methods in the early stages of the disease, focusing on the role of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as a biomarker, compared to others such as osteocalcin (OC) and the N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (P1NP). Through an exhaustive literature review, approximately 38 articles from descriptive, observational, and experimental studies were obtained from databases such as Elsevier, SciELO, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Scopus, gathering relevant data on the diagnosis of osteoporosis over the past 10 years. The results indicate that ALP is a sensitive marker of osteoblastic activity, although with lower specificity than OC, which allows for more precise detection of changes in bone metabolism. For its part, P1NP is directly associated with the synthesis of type I collagen, one of the main structural components of bone. The combination of these biomarkers presents itself as a comprehensive and complementary diagnostic approach, improving the precision, accessibility, and efficacy of monitoring and treating osteoporosis. The elevated levels of ALP and OC reflect the increased bone turnover characteristic of the disease. The findings support the combined use of ALP and P1NP as key tools for early detection, effective monitoring, and preservation of quality of life in patients with osteoporosis.
Extracción e Identificación de metabolitos potencialmente tóxicos a partir de Cianobacterias (Oscillatoria sp. y Microcystis sp.)
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Capa Torres, Paola Pacífica; Zea Paredes, Doménica Michelle; León Tamariz, Fabián; Calle López, Jessica Priscila
Cyanobacteria or blue-green algae are essential photosynthetic microorganisms in aquatic ecosystems, capable of performing oxygenic photosynthesis and fixing nitrogen, which enhances soil fertility. However, their excessive proliferation can lead to water quality and public health problems due to the production of cyanotoxins that affect both humans and animals. This work aimed to develop a preliminary, accessible, and low-cost method to detect potentially toxic metabolites present in extracts of the cyanobacteria Oscillatoria sp. and Microcystis sp. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was applied to qualitatively separate and identify cyclic peptides and alkaloids, using revealing reagents such as 2 % ninhydrin and Dragendorff. Additionally, acute toxicity bioassays were conducted on Daphnia magna to evaluate the biological effect of the extracts. Chromatographic results evidenced the presence of compounds compatible with microcystins and β-carboline alkaloids in Microcystis sp. Toxicity tests showed high mortality at concentrations of 1 mg/mL, especially in extracts obtained with methanol-water. These findings underscore the need for continuous monitoring of cyanobacteria in water bodies, as well as the implementation of management strategies to mitigate the risks associated with their proliferation.
Infección por ureaplasma urealyticum en mujeres embarazadas y sus complicaciones - revisión bibliográfica
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Saiteros Orellana, Doménica de los Ángeles; Verdugo Calle, Camila Susana; Zamora Burbano, Zulma Beatriz
Screening for Ureaplasma urealyticum in pregnant women is crucial in Ecuador, as despite its high prevalence and potential for serious complications, it is not included in prenatal diagnostic protocols. Its detection is challenging because infections are often asymptomatic, underscoring the need for effective strategies. Its implementation would allow for early treatment, reducing risks and improving maternal and child outcomes. This justifies its inclusion in public health programs, as systematic screening could reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to analyze the frequency of Ureaplasma urealyticum infection in pregnant women and its associated complications through a systematic literature review, compiling, evaluating, and synthesizing information from various databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Scielo, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The analyzed studies, published from 2010 to 2025, met criteria of scientific validity and clinical relevance for research. The results revealed a high prevalence (12-63%), demonstrating association with premature birth (up to 80.7%), chorioamnionitis and premature rupture of membranes. In newborns, vertical transmission was observed (27.2–43.3%) linked to respiratory distress syndrome (55.8–92.3%), bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and retinopathy of prematurity, confirming its pathogenetic impact through inflammatory mechanisms. Conventional methods do not routinely identify it, but molecular techniques such as PCR have demonstrated greater accuracy in detecting specific genes. These findings highlight the need to implement early detection and comprehensive management strategies to improve maternal and child outcomes.
Influencia de los alimentos fermentados en el microbioma intestinal en enfermedades neurodegenerativas: Parkinson y Alzheimer. Revisión bibliográfica
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Buele Llanos, Paola Carolina; Enriquez Liger, Belén del Cisne; Moscoso Romo, María Paz
Background: Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's are directly implicated with the gut microbiome, thanks to a connection through the vagus nerve; better known as gut-brain-microbiota interrelationship. On the other hand, fermented foods, due to their probiotic and prebiotic richness, contribute to intestinal health, acting against neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment. Objective: Analyze the influence of fermented foods on the intestinal microbiome of people with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Methods: The literature review was conducted using electronic databases with information from articles published between 2017 to 2025, in English or Spanish, to ensure transparency and reproducibility of the process the PRISMA methodology was used. Results: It was found that fermented foods such as kefir, kombucha, kimchi and chucrut improve the bacterial composition of the intestinal microbiome by increasing beneficial strains such as Bacteroidetes and Lactobacillus. In addition, when the gut microbiome is in a state of eubiosis, it produces metabolites such as SCFA, GABA, melatonin and vitamins, which are involved in the modulation of neuroinflammation and mental deterioration, processes that are very marked in neurodegenerative diseases. Conclusion: The results show several mechanisms through which fermented foods influence neurodegenerative diseases.
Análisis de datos de consumo de productos ultraprocesados en niños escolares de 6 a 12 años
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Chauca Quinde, Paula Estefania; Quintuña Siguencia, Diana Maricela; Donoso Moscoso, Silvana Patricia
The consumption of ultra-processed products (UPF) in childhood has increased significantly in Latin America, being related to a greater risk of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCD) such as childhood obesity. In Ecuador this situation is worrying due to the high availability of UPF both at home and in the school environment. Based on this, this research aimed to analyze the consumption of UPF in schoolchildren aged 6 to 12 years in a rural educational institution in the Girón canton. Methodology: A descriptive observational study was carried out with 71 children, applying three instruments: sociodemographic survey, 24-hour recall (as a reference method) and the NOVA-UPF tracker. Chi-square tests and Fisher's test were applied to perform the statistical analysis. Results: The most consumed UPF were industrialized sauces (46.5%), packaged sweets (43.7%), sugary drinks (39.4%) and sweet cookies (28.2%). No significant statistical differences were found in relation to sex, but relevant differences were observed in some products according to age group. These findings emphasize the need to intervene in the school food environment.
Clasificación actualizada de la diabetes: revisión sistemática
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Caguana Lojano, Raquel Marisol; Sacta Tacuri, Bryan Xavier; Zamora Burbano, Zulma Beatriz
Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by impaired carbohydrate metabolism and exhibits high global prevalence, making it a public health concern. Most studies mention type I and type II diabetes mellitus; however, few are the studies that perform a broad classification of the disease, including the “atypical” forms of diabetes. Therefore, the objective of this descriptive study is to analyze the different types of diabetes to provide an updated classification of the pathology based on relevant, accurate and current information for an adequate understanding and clinical management of the disease. For this purpose, a bibliographic review of different studies published in English and Spanish over the past ten years. The results identified diabetes forms beyond the classic classification, as well as diagnostic methods such as fasting glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, random glucose, HbA1c and C-peptide, which, together with complementary tests, allow for a differential diagnosis. Additionally, new classification proposals based on immunological markers were identified, which, although not included in the official classification, represent important findings. In conclusion, this review enabled the differentiation of various types of diabetes and highlighted essential diagnostic methods for an adequate approach to the disease. Finally, the study emphasizes the need to promote further research on less common forms and their diagnostic techniques.
Cultivo de microalgas y cianobacterias en lactosuero ácido y dulce: evaluación de la producción de biomasa y potencial nutricional
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-03) Quito Vazquez, Ana Elizabeth; Sucuzhañay Macancela, Pamela Carolina; León Tamariz, Fabián
In Ecuador, child malnutrition is a serious public health problem that affects the physical and intellectual development of children, despite the country's rich agricultural food supply. This situation is aggravated by high levels of food waste, which includes not only fresh produce, but also nutritious by-products such as whey. Of the total production of whey in the cheese industry, barely 10% is used, which represents a significant loss of nutrients and contributes to environmental issues. In order to explore new alternatives for utilization, the use of whey as a supplement in cultures of microorganisms with nutraceutical potential, specifically microalgae and cyanobacteria, was evaluated. Conventional culture media (BG-11 and WC) were modified by incorporating sweet and acid whey in concentrations of 5, 10 and 15%. Two strains were cultured: Chlorella vulgaris (MAAL 26) and a consortium of microalgae and cyanobacteria (MAAL 58). Biomass production, amount of carotenoids and total. The results indicated that both strains grew with both types of whey. MAAL 58 achieved its highest biomass production with 5% acid whey, while MAAL 26 did so with 5% sweet whey. The days of greatest growth presented a pH between 6 and 9, the latter being the most repeated value among the different cultures. The conductivity of the medium varied according to the culture; MAAL 58 showed the best performance with values of 2200 to 2800 µS/cm in BG-11, while MAAL 26 stood out with ranges of 560 to 1500 µS/cm in WC.
Efectividad del tratamiento de anemia ferropénica en mujeres embarazadas: comparación entre el régimen de hierro en monoterapia y su combinación con vitamina C
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Iñiguez Zuñiga, Katherine Andrea; Loja Balbuca, Juliana Cristina; Zamora Burbano, Zulma Beatriz
Blood deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional disorders worldwide, which has major consequences for the health of different population groups; This condition is treated mainly with blood supplements, which have been used as a standard treatment to restore blood levels in the body. However, clinical results have not always been satisfactory, due to a decrease in water absorption, which may be limited by the presence of substances such as calcium, phytates and tannins, which inhibit their uptake in the gastrointestinal tract; This difficulty contributes to the fact that many patients are unable to restore their blood levels effectively. This is why it is important to add components such as vitamin C to the treatment that help improve the bioavailability of the body. This study compared the effectiveness of iron-deficiency anemia treatment in pregnant women using an iron regimen and its combination with vitamin C. A literature review was conducted of experimental scientific articles obtained from databases such as PubMed, Taylor & Francis, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Scielo, and others, published in the last 10 years in Spanish and English. The results of the study demonstrated that the combined administration of iron and vitamin C supplements has a more favorable synergistic effect on the treatment of anemia than iron supplementation alone. The impact of this treatment was evidenced by the elevation toward normal values of iron biomarkers, hematological indices, and red blood cell indices, indicating improvement in iron-deficiency anemia.
Análisis del efecto antifúngico del nanocomposito compuesto por nanopartículas níquel-cobalto y quitosano contra Fusarium oxysporum in vitro
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Maldonado Ramón, Jenny Lorena; Cruzat Contreras, Christian Américo
The increased demand for food is related to the constant increase in population. Economically important crops are susceptible to attack by phytopathogens, among which Fusarium oxysporum affects vegetable crops, causing root and aerial rot. This study evaluated the antifungal activity of a Ni2,5Co0,5O4-NPs nanocomposite in chitosan against Fusarium oxysporum. Ni2,5Co0,5O4-NPs were synthesized using the sol-gel technique and characterized by physicochemical methods such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), UV-Vis spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), in order to determine their morphology, structure and composition. The release of nanoparticles and their effect on fungal growth under different conditions were tested. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were established to test the effectiveness of the system. The results showed that the nanocomposite has promising antifungal activity, suggesting its potential as a biocontrol agent of phytopathogenic fungi in agriculture.
Nanopartículas de oro como herramienta innovadora en el tratamiento del cáncer - revisión bibliográfica
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Díaz Bueno, Jonathan Stalin; Jiménez Herráez, Gabriela Noemí
Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Its high heterogeneity and variability in tumor location hinder the effectiveness of conventional therapies, which has driven the search for more specific and effective alternatives. In this context, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have emerged as an innovative therapeutic tool in preclinical models. The present review aimed to analyze the different mechanisms by which AuNPs can exert antitumor effects: tumor volume reduction through photothermal therapy (PTT), conjugation with chemotherapeutic agents, induction of oxidative stress, and their use as controlled drug release systems. The methodology was based on a comprehensive literature review in the PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciELO, and Scopus databases. The results show that the efficacy of these therapies depends on multiple factors, such as the type and depth of the tumor, the physicochemical characteristics of the AuNPs (shape, size, functionalization), and the irradiation source used. Despite their limitations, evidence suggests that AuNPs offer significant advantages over conventional treatments, establishing themselves as a promising strategy for addressing cancer.
Prevalencia del déficit de Vitamina A en niños de Latinoamérica menores de 5 años, una revisión bibliográfica
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-01) Cambizaca Lucero, Jeimy Lizbeth; Capón Sánchez, Paula Camila; Donoso Moscoso, Silvana Patricia
Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a public health issue that severely impacts child development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In Latin America, the magnitude and distribution of VAD in children under five is heterogeneous and linked to multiple socioeconomic, dietary, and health-related factors. The general objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence and main risk factors of vitamin A deficiency in children under five in Latin American countries, through a systematic literature review of studies published between 2015 and 2024. The PRISMA method was used to identify, select, and analyze scientific articles, prioritizing those with up-to-date epidemiological data and proven methodological rigor. The most important finding showed that while some countries have achieved a prevalence below 5%—such as Cuba and Costa Rica—others, including Haiti, Colombia, and Mexico, exceed 20%, indicating a severe public health problem. The most frequent risk factors include multidimensional poverty, low maternal education, poor dietary diversity, and recurrent childhood infections. The study concludes that VAD in Latin America remains a complex issue linked to structural inequality, and that its reduction requires integrated strategies across nutrition, health, education, and social development sectors.
Tecnología CRISPR-Cas9 y sus diversas aplicaciones biotecnológicas: Innovación tecnológica en países en vías de desarrollo. Revisión bibliográfica
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-27) Campoverde Chicaiza, Andrea Victoria; Guerrero Mogrovejo, Mónica Patricia; Moscoso Romo, María Paz
Gene editing has become a promising tool in various fields of research. Among the editing techniques, CRISPR-Cas9 has stood out for its precision, efficiency, versatility and low cost compared to previous methods such as ZFNs and TALENs. This has given rise to several studies that seek to exploit the broad potential of this tool; however, despite the worldwide boom, in developing countries its implementation at the professional level is still limited by economic, logistical and infrastructure factors. This integrative bibliographic review compiled the most relevant information about the CRISPR-Cas9 system in biotechnological field, particularly on agriculture, disease treatment, antibiotic resistance and bioremediation. Based on this compilation, the most widely used protocols in each area were described. A total of 53 articles, were selected under strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, which were subsequently analyzed. The results showed that CRISPR-Cas9 has been successfully used to improve crops, treat diseases, eliminate resistance genes in bacteria and optimize the capacity of plants and microorganisms to control contaminated environments. However, limitations related to editing efficiency and the scarce evaluation of long-term off-target effects were identified, which represents a challenge to guarantee the safety of this technology. This study aims to serve as a guide to promote knowledge and responsible application of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in developing countries.
Evaluación de actividad fungicida de nanopartículas de cobre y manganeso sobre Fusarium spp, causante de enfermedades fitopatógenas en cultivos de banano
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-26) Gómez Siranaula, Mateo Fernando; Cruzat Contreras, Christian Américo
Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as an innovative alternative for the sustainable management of phytopathogenic diseases. In this study, the biocidal activity of copper and manganese nanoparticles against Fusarium spp. strains was evaluated in vitro, with synthesis carried out through the solvothermal method using a stainless-steel reactor. Copper NPs were obtained at 180 °C for 18 hours, while manganese NPs were synthesized at 100 °C for 12 and 16 hours, using copper (II) nitrate pentahydrate and manganese (II) acetate tetrahydrate as precursors. Antifungal activity was assessed by the agar well diffusion method, recording mycelial growth at 7, 14, and 21 days. The results showed that copper NPs synthesized with acetone exhibited fungistatic effects, whereas those obtained with PEG demonstrated fungicidal activity at 2000 ppm against Fusarium spp.. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis revealed average sizes of 110.40 nm (acetone) and 48.64 nm (PEG) for copper NPs, and 15.54 nm (12 h) and 28.62 nm (16 h) for manganese NPs. Additionally, UV-Visible spectroscopy confirmed the presence of nanoparticles with absorption peaks at 329 nm (copper) and 216 nm (manganese). These findings highlight the potential of metallic nanoparticles as antifungal agents for the control of agricultural diseases.

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