1Department of Natural and Life Sciences, University of 20 August 1955 Skikda, Skikda, ALGERIA
2Laboratory of Natural Sciences and Materials, Department of Biological and Agricultural Sciences, Institut of Natural and Life Sciences, Abdelhafid Boussouf University Centre, Mila, ALGERIA
3Biotechnology Research Centre (CRBT), Ali Mendjli. UV 03. BP E73 Constantine, ALGERIA
4Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, ITALY
5Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, SAUDI ARABIA
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ABSTRACT
Aim
Solanum melongena L., commonly known as eggplant, is a low-calorie vegetable with high nutritional value due to its rich fiber, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols, which provide antioxidant properties. This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and biological activities of methanolic extracts from purple S. melongena fruit.
Materials and Methods
The chemical and biological properties of the methanolic extract were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Bioactive compounds were identified through standard methods and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The antioxidant capacity was assessed using free radical scavenging (DPPH, ABTS) and ferric reducing power assays. The extract’s urease inhibition and anti-inflammatory effects were also tested, and antimicrobial activity was evaluated via the agar diffusion method.
Results
Qualitative analysis detected phenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, flavonoids, saponins, and anthraquinones. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found to be 81 mg GEA/kg and 75 mg QE/kg, respectively. GC-MS analysis revealed 44 chemical compounds, with quinic acid being the most abundant (>60% peak area). Most identified compounds had not been previously reported in S. melongena L. The methanolic extract displayed moderate antioxidant activity across DPPH, ABTS, reducing power, and phenanthroline assays and showed similar moderate effects in urease inhibition and anti-inflammatory assays. Antibacterial activity was strong against all tested species.
Discussion
The methanolic extract of S. melongena L. exhibits promising antioxidant, anti-urease, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. However, further research, including metabolomic studies, is necessary to fully understand the metabolic profile and action mechanisms of the identified compounds.