An integrative GC–MS and LC–MS metabolomics platform determination of the metabolite profile of Bombax ceiba L. root, and in silico & in vitro evaluation of its antibacterial & antidiabetic activities

Abstract

The Bombax ceiba L. tree is a member of the family Bombacaceae and the genus Bombax. Both Chinese and Indian traditional medicine have made extensive use of it in the treatment of sickness. Its chemical composition is still a mystery. B. ceiba roots methanol extract (BCRME) was analyzed by different chromatographic analytical techniques in order to identify its major chemical constituents. Twelve compounds and six compounds were identified from GC–MS and LC–MS analysis, respectively. This is the first report on the presence of lathodoratin, cedrene, 4H-1-benzopyran-4-one,8-[{dimethylamino} methyl]-7-methoxy-3-methyl-2-phenyl, asiatic acid, and (E)-2,4,4'-trihydroxylchalcone in B. ceiba roots. Methanol extract demonstrated noteworthy antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC96) (MIC: 100 µg/mL) compare to antibiotic ampicillin (MIC: 250 µg/mL) as well as the highest α-amylase inhibition (IC₅₀=26.91 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase inhibition (IC₅₀=21.21 µg/mL) effects, molecular docking study confirmed these findings, with some compounds having a very high docking score.

Graphical abstract

Keywords:

• Bombax ceiba L
• asiatic acid
• GC–MS analysis
• lathodoratin
• LC–MS analysis
• cedrene

Acknowledgments

.The authors extend their sincere appreciation to researchers supporting project number (RSP-2021/129), King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for supporting us in conducting chemical analysis and providing chemical materials.

Disclosure statement

This work was supported by King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (project number: RSP-2021/129).