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Abstract

Carissa macrocarpa (Natal plum) is a medicinal plant known for its rich phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential. This study evaluated the phytochemical profile and biological activity of its leaf extracts using GC–MS, HPLC, amino acid analysis, and in vitro cytotoxicity assays. GC–MS analysis of the n-hexane extract revealed several bioactive constituents, predominantly fatty acids and their derivatives, including hexadecanoic, octadecenoic, and linoleic acid esters. One major compound accounted for 92.5% of the total extract composition. HPLC analysis identified key phenolic compounds, including gallic acid, caffeic acid, and quercetin, indicating significant antioxidant potential. Amino acid profiling detected seventeen amino acids, including essential amino acids such as leucine, valine, and phenylalanine, highlighting the plant’s nutritional significance. The cytotoxic activity of the extract was evaluated against A549 human lung carcinoma cells using the MTT assay. Treatment resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability, with significant cytotoxic effects observed at higher concentrations. Morphological changes, including membrane blebbing and cell shrinkage, suggested apoptosis as a possible mechanism of cell death. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences between the treated and control groups (p < 0.05). Overall, C. macrocarpa exhibited a diverse phytochemical composition and notable cytotoxic activity, likely attributable to the combined effects of its bioactive constituents. These findings support its potential as a promising natural source of anticancer compounds. Further studies are required to isolate the active constituents and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed biological effects‎.

Keywords: Carissa macrocarpa, Phytochemicals, HPLC analysis, Amino acid profiling, Anticancer activity, Apoptosis

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