In vitro evaluation and molecular docking analysis of potential anticancer compounds from Annona muricata L.

Abstract

Annona muricata L. is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Traditionally this plant has been used as a medicine for multiple ailments including cancer. The present study focussed on the anticancer activities of hydroethanolic extracts of leaves of A. muricata L. on Dalton’s Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) cell line in comparison with standard drug doxorubicin. Cytotoxicity studies have indicated that the phytoconstituents of A. muricata have the ability to selectively target cancer cells (IC50 = 185.585 µg/ml), whereas minimal or negligible cytotoxic effects were observed on normal cells. Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry data revealed the presence of 16 phytoconstituents comprising mainly alkaloids and phenolic compounds. Pharmacokinetic profiling and molecular docking studies using the phytoconstituents were performed in order to gain a better understanding of the putative mechanisms of action leading to the development of improved and affordable therapies.