The assessment of composition, biological properties, safety and molecular docking of corn silk (Zea mays L.) extracts from the valorization of agricultural waste products in Thailand

Abstract

Corn, known as Zea mays L., is an important source of nutrition for humans and animals. Corn silk is a byproduct of corn which is typically disposed in agriculture of Thailand. Examination of the composition, biological properties, safety and molecular docking interactions of corn silk extracts was the objective of this research. The crude extracts were determined for percentage yield, phytochemical composition, antioxidative activity, enzyme inhibition activities, safety profile and active content analysis. The corn silk extract with water by reflux technique (Rcsw) had the highest percentage yield and total phenolic content at 16.23% and 23.87±3.22 mgGAE/g extract, respectively, while the corn silk extract with 50% ethanol by reflux technique (Rcs50) gave the highest total flavonoid content at 220.58±47.51 mgQE/g extract. The four selected corn silk extracts had cosmeceutical potential including antioxidant activities, tyrosinase inhibition, anti-aging activity and a non-toxic profile on HET-CAM and cell culture test. The content analysis by HPLC was the highest in the corn silk extract with water by ultrasonication (Ucsw) at 18.70±2.12 mg GA/g and 903.29±23.18 mg QE/g. The comprehension of the molecular mechanisms that affected the interaction between active ingredients and the structures of tyrosinase, collagenase and hyaluronidase has been provided via molecular docking of the extracts. The findings of this research have illustrated the potential of corn silk extracts in the advancement of innovative health care products.