HPLC-DAD profiling and in vitro assessment of antioxidant, anticholinesterase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of Echium horridum Batt.

Abstract

The current study evaluated the biochemical activity of Echium horridum Batt. acetone extract for the first time. The aerial parts of Echium horridum were extracted using acetone and the phenolic profile was characterized via HPLC-DAD. The antioxidant potential was evaluated using in vitro assays. The anti-enzymatic activity of the extract was measured using anticholinesterase, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays. Seven compounds were identified by HPLC analysis, predominantly phenolic acids, including hydroxybenzoic acid, chlorogenic acid and trans-2-hydroxycinnamic acid, alongside the flavonoid quercetin. The extract exhibited significant scavenging activity against DPPH and hydroxyl radicals, though it demonstrated lower potency in the FRAP assay. Conversely, in the ferric thiocyanate and TBARS assays, the extract showed substantial activity, effectively preventing lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, the extract displayed inhibitory potential against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes.