Phytochemical characterization of phenolic compounds by liquid chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry and biological activities of Peltigera neckeri, Peltigera canina and Peltigera ponojensis from Türkiye

Abstract

Introduction

Lichens are symbiotic associations that live in diverse environmental conditions. They produce metabolites such as carotenoids, lichen phenolics, and water-soluble phenolics. The study aims to determine the content and in-vitro biological activities of Peltigera lichens from Bursa province, which have not been previously investigated.

Methods

Methanol and acetone extracts were analyzed. Liquid Chromatography-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (LC/QTOF/MS) was used for qualitative and quantitative analysis. In-vitro antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities were evaluated, along with cytotoxic activity assessments.

Results

Zeaxanthin was identified in the acetone extract of P. neckeri. Vanillic acid was found to be the major component in both P. canina extracts, while neoxanthin was detected in the methanol extract. Evernic acid and usnic acid were also present in both extracts. Rosmarinic acid, rutin, and zeaxanthin were not detected in P. ponojensis extracts, whereas neoxanthin, usnic acid, and evernic acid were present. The most active extract was the methanol extract of P. ponojensis, with an IC₅₀ value of 23.52 ± 0.02 µg/mL for radical scavenging. No tyrosinase inhibitory activity was observed in either extract of P. neckeri. The most active extract was methanol extract of P. ponojensis with an IC₅₀ value of 30.588 ± 0.02 µg/mL. Cytotoxicity results showed no death or proliferation reduction in any tested cell lines.

Conclusion

Peltigera species may serve as potential sources of antioxidants.