Evaluation of neuroprotective effect and identification of active compounds from Nigella sativa Linn. through bioactive guided fractionation

Abstract

The medicinal herb Nigella sativa Linn of the Ranunculaceae family is widely used everywhere in the world. In the past, numerous illnesses and disorders have been treated with N. sativa L. seeds. Both in vivo and in vitro analyses revealed that N. sativa L., possesses numerous neuroprotective effects. The methanolic extract of N. sativa L. was evaluated for the presence of antioxidant and anticholinesterase activity and the findings revealed that the extract has outstanding antioxidant and anticholinesterase activity. Since the extract was found to possess excellent activity, the methanolic extract was separated using column chromatography with the aid of bioactive guided fractionation. A total of 19 fractions were collected and analyzed for antioxidant potential. The active fractions were collected, pooled and analyzed using LC-MS techniques. The outcomes revealed the existence of Kaempferol 3-(2-galloyl-alpha-L-arabinopyranoside). To assess the safety aspects of methanolic extract, a subacute toxicity test was performed using zebrafish. The results of the liver function test and histoarchitecture analysis found that there were no adverse consequences from the extract. Altogether, these results suggest that N. sativa L., could be a promising therapeutic drug against Alzheimer’s disease.