Chemical composition and biological activities of methanol extract from Macrocybe lobayensis

Over the generations, Macrocybe lobayensis has become an integral part of tribal cuisines of India particularly for its aroma and taste. However, no investigation has been carried out so far on its secondary metabolites that may account for therapeutic potential. Therefore, aim of the present study was to identify major constituents of methanol extract isolated from the wild mushroom and examine spectrum of pharmacological activities. Chemical characterization by spectrophotometer and HPLC depicted that the fraction was mainly consisted of phenolic compounds (p-hydroxybenzoic acid< p-coumaric acid< cinnamic acid< salicylic acid< pyrogallol); while ascorbic acid and carotenoids were detected in lesser extent. In terms of screening medicinal prospects, the extract presented strong radical scavenging activity (DPPH. and ABTS.+), chelating ability of ferrous ion, reducing power and total antioxidant capacity. The methanol formulation also exhibited antibacterial properties against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, with MIC values ranging from 245.13-1585.81 µg/ml. Finally, Hep3B human liver carcinoma cells were challenged with the extract to assess cytotoxic effect and result showed concentration dependent decrease in cell viability (IC50 of 234.31 µg/ml). Overall, features described in this work provides the first attempt to establish medicinal prospects of phenolic compounds from M. lobayensis empowering its use in pharmaceutical industry.