GC-MS Analysis, Molecular Docking and Hepatoprotective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Capparis zeylanica on CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Abstract

Capparis zeylanica (Capparaceae) is a climbing shrub, commonly known as ‘Asadua’ in Oriya language. Folkloric it is used as anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, hepatitis and liver tonics. The present work aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective activity of Capparis zeylanica root. The ethanolic extract was subjected to GC-MS analysis and quantification of rutin, quercetin and gallic acid by HPLC. In vitro antioxidant study was evaluated by DPPH, nitric oxide radical and hydrogen peroxide assay. Hepatoprotective activity was performed by CCl4 (1.25 ml/kg, I.P) induced Wistar albino rats at dose of 200 and 300 mg/kg using silymarin (100 mg/kg) as standard. The liver tissue homogenate was examined for lipid peroxidation, SOD, CAT and GSH assay. Serum was taken for biochemical analysis and liver for histopathological study. In silico molecular docking study was performed by the indentified compounds. Gallic acid was quantified as highest in HPLC analysis. Fifty compounds were identified by GC-MS analysis. The extract exhibited significant free radical scavenging effect at highest concentration. The level of liver function enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP), bilirubin and protein were significantly improved after the administration of 200 and 300 mg/kg of extract. Alterations in SOD, CAT, GSH and lipid peroxidation levels were significantly checked by extract. Compounds propane, 1, 1-dipropoxy- (-5.2); cis-9-hexadecenal (-6.0); 17-octadecen-14-yn-1-ol (-6.0); 6-butyl-1,4-cycloheptadiene (-6.5) exhibited greater docking score as compared to standard silymarin (-5.1). The hepatoprotective potential of C. zeylanica could be due to its antioxidant effect and the synergistic effect of these compounds.