Identification of polyphenols in leaf extracts of Lawsonia inermis L. with antioxidant, antigenotoxic and antiproliferative potential

Abstract

Background: Keeping in view the importance of natural plant products, bioactivity‑guided isolation of phytoconstituents was attempted from Lawsonia inermis L. Materials and Methods: Various polar and non‑polar extract/fractions were isolated and evaluated for the genotoxic and antigenotoxic potential against mutagens viz., 4‑nitroquinoline‑1‑oxide and nitrofurantoin in SOS chromotest using Escherichia coli PQ37 tester strain and against H2O2 in DNA protection assay. In order to decipher mode of action, antioxidant activity was evaluated using different assays. The extract/fractions were also investigated for their antiproliferative potential against PC‑3 and Colo 205 cancer cell lines. Major polyphenolic constituents were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. Results: All the extract/fractions except Hex‑Li significantly decreased the SOS‑inducing potency of both the mutagens. In various in vitro assays, the polar fractions exhibited marked antioxidant activity. HPLC analysis of the extract/fractions showed that gallic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, rutin, ellagic acid, quercetin and kaempferol are the major constituents. The marked antigenotoxic activity of extract/fractions may be attributed to the polyphenolic compounds. The fractions viz., Hex‑Li and CHCl3‑LI were found to be highly cytotoxic against Colo‑205 cancer cell line. Conclusions: This is the first report of antigenotoxic and anticancer activities of Lawsonia inermis L. phytoconstituents. The antiradical potency of these extract/fractions may be responsible for the above activities. Key words: 4‑Nitroquinoline‑1‑oxide, antioxidant activity, cancer cell lines, nitrofurantoin, SOS chromotest