Maryam Ado Mahmud1*, Ali Abdullahi Damasak2, Hamsatu Mohammed Malut3, Muhammad Shuaibu Auwal4 and Yagana Shettima Abba5
1Department of Biochemistry, Yobe State University, Nigeria
2Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria
3Department of Biological Sciences, Borno State University, Nigeria
4Department Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria
5Department of Biochemistry, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria
*Corresponding author’s Email: maryamadomahmud101@gmail.com, doi.org/10.55639/607.02010052
ABSTRACT
Diabetes mellitus is a complex disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to absolute or relative insulin deficiency. A key therapeutic strategy involves reducing postprandial glucose levels by inhibiting digestive enzymes such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase. This study investigated the potential antidiabetic activity of Bougainvillaea spectabilis Willd. (Paper flower). Ethanol extract of the leaves of Bougainvillaea spectabilis Willd was subjected to quantitative phytochemical analysis and in vitro assays to assess its inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, using standard laboratory procedures. The extract demonstrated dose-dependent inhibitory activity against both enzymes. At the highest concentration of 100 μg/ml, the plant showed maximum inhibitory effect of α-amylase and α-glucosidase at (77.98 %, 91.66 %) with corresponding IC50 values of 47.50±0.06 μg/ml and 26.23±0.03 μg/ml, respectively. These effects were also compared to those of the standard drug voglibose (IC50: 0f 45.50±0.06 μg/ml for α-amylase and 33.60±0.06 μg/ml for α-glucosidase). However, it is important to interpret these comparisons with precaution, as pharmacodynamics differences, purity and bioavailability between the crude extract and the synthetic drug were not accounted for. Preliminary screening indicated flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds commonly associated with antidiabetic effects. In conclusion, the ethanol leaves extract of Bougainvillaea spectabilis Willd demonstrates notable in vitro inhibitory activity against carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes, suggesting its potential as a source of natural antidiabetic agents.
Keywords:
Diabetes mellitus,
Bougainvillea spectabilis,
α-amylase, – Voglibose