GCMS-employed characterization of phytoconstituents and cytotoxic activity assessment of Lagerstroemia thorelli bark extract

Abstract

This study explores the cytotoxic properties and chemical composition of the methanol extract derived from the bark of Lagerstroemia thorelli (L. thorelli); a medicinal plant historically employed for the treatment of numerous conditions. The extract underwent analysis via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to ascertain its bioactive phytoconstituents where a total 37 phytoconstituents are identified. A variety of chemicals are found based on the area percentage and retention time, such as 13-Docosenamide (Z)-, fatty acid amides, and methyl esters, were found, many of which possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. The extract's cytotoxic activity was assessed against HeLa cervical cancer cells with the MTT test. A dose-dependent reduction of cell growth was noted, with an IC₅₀ value of 1.7856 mg/mL. The highest concentration evaluated (2.5 mg/mL) decreased cell viability by 59.73%, but the lowest concentration (0.0025 mg/mL) demonstrated negligible cytotoxicity (2.87%). The findings indicate that Lagerstroemia thorelli bark extract possesses bioactive chemicals with considerable cytotoxic potential, hence endorsing its prospective application in anticancer therapy. Additional research is required to investigate the mechanisms of action, confirm the in vivo therapeutic efficacy, and evaluate the safety of this plant extract in clinical applications.