Aldose reductase inhibitory principles from the whole plant of Hybanthus enneaspermus (Linn) F. Muell

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate active aldose reductase (AR) inhibitory principles from ethanolic extract and one isolated compound beta sitostirol from Hybanthus enneaspermus (H. enneaspermus) Linn F. Muell. (Violaceae), used in the treatment of various complications including diabetes. Methods: AR inhibitory activities of H. enneaspermus and isolated compound beta sitosterol against rat lens AR enzyme were investigated in vitro using quercetin as a standard drug. Results: There was a significant difference in the AR inhibitory activity, and it was found to be more in H. enneaspermus [IC 50 (49.46±2.26 μg/mL)] followed by beta sitosterol [IC 50 (82.71±0.42 μg/mL)] but was less compared to standard quercetin [IC 50 (3.326±0.11 μg/mL)]. From the value of V max, K m and K i it was found that H. enneaspermus inhibited enzyme in a non competitive manner, whereas beta sitosterol inhibited enzyme in a competitive manner. Conclusions: H. enneaspermus showed significant AR inhibitory activity compared to the isolated compound beta sitosterol, which may be due to its high phenolic and flavonoid content. So this plant can be used to treat diabetic complications in the future, but further evaluation is necessary to know the exact mode of action involved in this process. © 2012 Asian Pacific Tropical Biomedical Magazine.