Unveiling the Phytochemical Diversity and Bioactivity of <i>Astragalus melanophrurius</i>: A First Report Integrating Experimental and In Silico Approaches
<b>Background</b>: The genus <i>Astragalus</i> is renowned for its diverse bioactive potential, yet the chemical composition and biological properties of <i>Astragalus melanophrurius</i> remain inadequately explored. This study aimed to investigate the chemical pr...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Pharmaceuticals |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/18/1/103 |
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| Summary: | <b>Background</b>: The genus <i>Astragalus</i> is renowned for its diverse bioactive potential, yet the chemical composition and biological properties of <i>Astragalus melanophrurius</i> remain inadequately explored. This study aimed to investigate the chemical profile, antioxidant capacity, and enzyme inhibitory activities of methanol extracts from various plant parts of <i>A. melanophrurius</i>. <b>Methods</b>: Methanol extracts were obtained from leaves, stems, flowers, roots, and aerial portions of <i>A. melanophrurius</i>. The chemical composition was determined using LC–ESI–MS/MS, focusing on key phytochemicals such as hyperoside, kaempferol, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and chlorogenic acid. Antioxidant activities were assessed via DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays, while enzyme inhibitory activities were evaluated against α-amylase and tyrosinase. In silico molecular docking analyses were conducted to explore the interactions between major compounds and target enzymes. <b>Results</b>: The leaf extract exhibited the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents, correlating with superior antioxidant activities, achieving IC<sub>50</sub> values of 16.55 mg/mL, 4.58 mg/mL, and 3.07 mg/mL in DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays, respectively. The root extract demonstrated notable α-amylase (IC<sub>50</sub> = 2.99 mg/mL) and tyrosinase (IC<sub>50</sub> = 1.34 mg/mL) inhibitory activities, suggesting potential applications in diabetes and hyperpigmentation management. Molecular docking revealed stable complexes of hyperoside and kaempferol with target enzymes, supporting their roles in observed bioactivities. <b>Conclusions</b>: This study highlights the bioactivity of <i>A. melanophrurius</i> extracts, particularly from leaves and roots, supporting their therapeutic potential. Future research should focus on isolating active compounds and conducting in vivo studies to confirm efficacy and elucidate mechanisms of action. |
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| ISSN: | 1424-8247 |