An integrative GC-MS and LC-MS metabolomics platform determination of the metabolite profile of Bombax ceiba L. root, and in silico & in vitro evaluation of its antibacterial & antidiabetic activities

The Bombax ceiba L. tree is a member of the family Bombacaceae and the genus Bombax. Both Chinese and Indian traditional medicine have made extensive use of it in the treatment of sickness. Its chemical composition is still a mystery. B. ceiba roots methanol extract (BCRME) was analyzed by different chromatographic analytical techniques in order to identify its major chemical constituents. Twelve compounds and six compounds were identified from GC-MS and LC-MS analysis, respectively. This is the first report on the presence of lathodoratin, cedrene, 4H-1-benzopyran-4-one,8-[{dimethylamino} methyl]-7-methoxy-3-methyl-2-phenyl, asiatic acid, and (E)-2,4,4'-trihydroxylchalcone in B. ceiba roots. Methanol extract demonstrated noteworthy antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC96) (MIC: 100 mu g/mL) compare to antibiotic ampicillin (MIC: 250 mu g/mL) as well as the highest alpha-amylase inhibition (IC50=26.91 mu g/mL) and alpha-glucosidase inhibition (IC50=21.21 mu g/mL) effects, molecular docking study confirmed these findings, with some compounds having a very high docking score.

Automated summary

The Bombax ceiba L. tree has been extensively used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine for treating illnesses. Its chemical composition remains unknown. This study identified twelve compounds from GC-MS analysis and six compounds from LC-MS analysis in the methanol extract of B. ceiba roots. The extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity and inhibition of enzyme activity, supporting its medicinal potential.