Phytochemical Screening and Anticancer Evaluation of Ethanolic Root Extract of Asparagus gonoclados Baker: Insight for Colorectal Cancer Treatment
-
Mishiriya Vallikkaparambil
,
Hibasherin Kalakkandan
,
Mohammed Saifudheen Koomankottil
,
Silmy Shareef
,
Musliyarakath Nishida
,
Jibin Joy
,
Pattilthodika Suhail
Abstract
Herbs are useful because of their therapeutic characteristics and efficacy in a variety of conditions, including cancer, when allopathic medications are ineffective. This study investigates the phytochemical composition and anticancer potential of the ethanolic root extract of Asparagus gonoclados Baker for colorectal cancer treatment. Phytochemical screening was conducted through preliminary phytochemical analysis and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) techniques. Molecular docking studies were performed to evaluate the interactions of the identified phytoconstituents with key molecular targets, including nuclear factor- κB (NF-κB) and phosphodiesterase which play critical roles in cancer progression. Additionally, the cytotoxic effects of the compounds were assessed using the MTT assay on the HCT-116 colorectal cancer cell line. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of bioactive compounds, including glycosides, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which are known for their therapeutic properties. LC/MS analysis confirmed the presence of phytoconstituents longistylin, nicofetamide, and vomicine, which have varied biological consequences. The docking analysis demonstrated strong binding affinities, with docking scores of -6.62, -6.14 and -4.84 kcal/mol for NF-κB and -7.31, -9.89 and -5.52 kcal/mol for phosphodiesterase, indicating potential inhibitory effects on these targets. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay on colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT-116), which demonstrated significant reduction in cell viability with an IC50 value of 144.1 ± 0.045 µg/mL. Microscopic analysis further confirmed morphological changes such as shrinkage, separation, membrane blebbing, and evident changes in cell shape. These findings highlight the potential of A. gonoclados root extract as a natural source of anticancer agents, offering insights into its mechanisms and supporting its further development as a complementary therapy for colorectal cancer.
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| Issue | Vol 11, No 1, 2026 -In Press- | |
| Section | Research Article(s) | |
| Keywords | ||
| Asparagus gonoclados Baker Colorectal cancer LC/MS analysis Molecular docking In vitro anticancer activity | ||
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