FLORAL BIOACTIVE OF PONGAMIA PINNATA: A MULTIFACETED APPROACH TO OXIDATIVE STRESS, INFLAMMATION, AND MICROBIAL RESISTANCE

Background: Pongamia pinnata (L.) (P. pinnata) Pierre is widely utilized in traditional medicine and is known for its diverse pharmacological properties. This study investigates the in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities of P. pinnata flower extract dissolved in DMSO.

Methods: The antioxidant potential was assessed using DPPH, Hâ‚‚Oâ‚‚, FRAP, ABTS, and nitric oxide scavenging assays. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans using the agar well diffusion method. Anti-inflammatory properties were analysed through protein denaturation and membrane stabilization assays. Cytotoxicity was determined by evaluating membrane stabilization inhibition percentages.

Results: The extract exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity, with DPPH inhibition ranging from 64.28% at 10 µg/mL to 90.12% at 50 µg/mL, and H₂O₂ scavenging increasing from 48.1% to 86.2%. Moderate antibacterial activity was observed against S. aureus (17 mm at 100 µg/mL) and S. mutans (14 mm at 100 µg/mL), while antifungal activity against C. albicans (13 mm at 100 µg/mL) was noted. The extract significantly inhibited protein denaturation (BSA: 80%, EA denaturation: 78% at 50 µg/mL) and demonstrated high membrane stabilization (84% at 50 µg/mL). Cytotoxic effects were observed with inhibition percentages of 68%–84% in membrane stabilization, indicating mild cytotoxicity compared to the standard drug.

Conclusion: P. pinnata flower extract exhibits significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, with mild cytotoxic effects. These findings support its potential as a natural therapeutic agent, warranting further pharmacological exploration.