Study on the inhibition of alpha-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase by Stellaria media harvested in Hai Phong

Abstract

This study was conducted on ”Cỏ sao” (Stellaria media L., Caryophyllaceae) collected in Hai Phong. The chemical composition of the samples was analyzed using specific chemical reactions, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and the inhibitory effects on alpha-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase enzymes were tested to evaluate the potential of the herbal material in the treatment of related diseases. The results revealed the presence of carotenoids and cardiac glycosides, while groups such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phytosterols, and saponins were not detected. TLC using a solvent system of n-hexane : ethyl acetate (5:1) showed that the ethyl acetate fraction displayed more distinct and diverse spots than other samples, indicating the presence of various chemical compounds. The herbal samples exhibited little inhibitory activity on the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (IC₅₀ > 256 µg/ml). Similarly, the inhibitory activity on the alpha-glucosidase enzyme was also fragile, with an IC₅₀ value > 256 µg/ml. However, the herbal material still has the potential for further research on other biological properties, such as cell protection and cardiovascular health.