The objective of the present study was to evaluate the larvicidal potential of the α-amylase inhibitor from the seeds of Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc. against Aedes aegypti (L.) larvae. Macrotyloma uniflorum α-amylase inhibitor (MUAI) was partially purified using ion exchange chromatography on a carboxymethyl cellulose column. MUAI at concentrations of 20, 60, 100 and 200 ppm was tested against different instar larvae, pupae and adults of A. aegypti to establish its bioefficacy. MUAI showed a strong larvicidal and a moderate adulticidal effect at a concentration of 200 ppm but did not exhibit pupicidal and ovicidal activities. MUAI-treated larvae showed lower α-amylase activity. MUAI also exhibited ovipositional deterrence activity. Dose-dependent mortality was observed, being highest in the first and second instar larvae. The results thus obtained provide a safe and eco-friendly means in the biological control of A. aegypti larvae.
