Evaluation of pharmacological properties using in vitro and in vivo (Swiss albino male mice) model followed by isolation of ergosterol from the stem bark extract of Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook.) Raf. (Fabaceae family)

Abstract

This study investigated the pharmacological properties of stem bark extracts of Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook.) Raf. (Fabaceae family), followed by the isolation of phytoconstituents. The methanolic extract exhibited significantly higher antioxidant activity (68.96 ± 1.82 mg/g AAE vs. 46.4 ± 2.3 mg/g AAE) and DPPH free radical scavenging potential (IC₅₀ = 22.387 µg/mL vs. 154.88 µg/mL) compared to the petroleum ether extract. Additionally, it demonstrated superior thrombolytic activity (59.62% vs. 51.38%) and significantly reduced the number of defecated pellets by 17.29% and 45.86% at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg BW (p < 0.01). Both extracts dose-dependently and significantly reduced blood glucose levels (p < 0.001). The methanolic extract also exhibited stronger analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects compared to the petroleum ether extract in mice. The structure of the isolated ergosterol was confirmed using ¹H-NMR spectroscopy. This study may guide future research and the isolation of additional bioactive compounds, while in silico studies could help elucidate the mechanisms underlying the observed activities.