Unveiling the phytochemical profile and biological potential of five Dendrobium species

Dendrobium, a genus of orchids celebrated for their ornamental, medicinal, and culinary uses, is the focus of this study, which examines the metabolite profiles and bioactivity of five species: Dendrobium officinale, Dendrobium nobile, Dendrobium crepidatum, Dendrobium chrysotoxum, and Dendrobium denneanum. Utilizing UPLC-Q-TOF-MS^E analysis, we have identified 88 compounds from the stems and leaves of these species. Notably, extracts from D. denneanum and D. chrysotoxum exhibited the highest antioxidant activities as demonstrated by DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging, and FRAP assays. Additionally, D. officinale showed significant anti-hepatoma activity with an IC₅₀ value of 104 μg/mL. Multivariate analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and metabolites correlation analysis further elucidated the bioactive potential of these species. This comprehensive approach revealed distinct metabolite profiles that correlate with the observed bioactivities. The antioxidant activities of D. denneanum and D. chrysotoxum were particularly noteworthy, suggesting their potential as natural sources of antioxidants for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. The anti-hepatoma activity of D. officinale, with its notable IC₅₀ value, indicates its promise as a therapeutic agent against liver cancer. The findings underscore the richness of bioactive compounds in Dendrobium species, highlighting their antioxidant and anti-hepatoma properties. These insights pave the way for further research into the medicinal utilization of Dendrobium leaves and contribute to the development of novel applications in healthcare and wellness industries. The potential health benefits identified in this research emphasize the importance of preserving and studying these valuable plant species for their diverse bioactivities.