Metabolite Profiling of Methanolic Extract of Ficus Bengalensis Bark and Exploring Its Impact On the Epigenome in Prostate Cancer

Abstract

Ficus bengalensis (the banyan tree) holds significant importance in phytotherapy due to its wide range of bioactive compounds and therapeutic properties. The present study investigates the metabolite profile and anticancer potential of the methanolic extract of Ficus benghalensis bark (MEFB), with a focus on its epigenetic and signalling pathway modulation in prostate cancer. Plant extract was collected from the NIT Campus, and MEFB was prepared by the maceration method. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the phytochemicals identified numerous bioactive compounds in MEFB. DPPH radical scavenging activity of the plant extract was evaluated to assess its antioxidant potential. Metabolite profiling was carried out using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), revealing a diverse array of bioactive compounds. ATR-FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy of crude extracts revealed the presence of various functional groups and chemically diverse bioactive compounds. The anticancer potential of the extract was assessed in vitro through expression analysis of key epigenetic regulators, DNMT1 and HDAC1, as well as stemness markers. Furthermore, the study assessed the impact of the extract on the RAS-MAPK signalling pathway. Seven bioactive compounds were identified from GC-MS analysis, and LC-MS analysis identified 22 bioactive compounds with high concentrations from both positive and negative ESI modes. The findings suggest that the MEFB exerts modulatory effects on both epigenetic factors and oncogenic signalling, indicating its potential as a multi-targeted therapeutic agent in prostate cancer treatment.