Cross-Linking Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Biochemistry Insights: Investigating Medicinal Potential in Azadirachta Indica, Swietenia Mahagoni and Melia Azedarach

Abstract

Background: The increasing resistance to synthetic drugs and their side effects has prompted renewed interest in the medicinal potential of natural products. Azadirachta indica, Swietenia mahagoni, and Melia azedarach, members of the Meliaceae family, have been traditionally used for their diverse therapeutic properties. Their efficacy stems from a range of bioactive compounds known for antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Objective: This study aims to explore and quantify the bioactive compounds in Azadirachta indica, Swietenia mahagoni, and Melia azedarach, assess their therapeutic potentials, and discuss their implications for drug development and human healthcare. Methods: Plant materials were collected, and extracts were prepared using ethanol, methanol, or water as solvents. Following maceration and filtration, the extracts were concentrated and analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). HPLC conditions were optimized for each plant, focusing on key compounds such as azadirachtin, nimbin, swietenine, meliacarpinin, and azedarachin. Method validation was performed to ensure precision, accuracy, and reproducibility. Results: The study identified high concentrations of bioactive compounds in each plant: Azadirachta indica contained azadirachtin (450 mg/g), nimbin (120 mg/g), and salannin (50 mg/g); Swietenia mahagoni had concentrations of swietenine (200 mg/g) and limonoids (180 mg/g total); Melia azedarach demonstrated high levels of meliacarpinin (300 mg/g) and azedarachin (220 mg/g). Conclusion: The confirmation of high levels of specific bioactive compounds in these plants supports their traditional uses and highlights their potential in developing new therapeutic agents that are environmentally sustainable and potentially more effective than current synthetic options. This research underscores the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches in drug discovery.