Unveiling the Medicinal Benefits, Contemporary Phyto-pharmacological Potentials and In- silico Studies of Achyranthes aspera

Since ancient times, Achyranthes aspera has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes, including diabetes, in diuretic condition, protecting the brain function and many more. Recent surveys have looked into the components of Achyranthes aspera and their potential health benefits. A compound called 17-pentatriacontanol found in the plants shoots has shown antifungal properties against strains like A. Carenus. Research also suggests that Achyranthes aspera may have seizure reducing properties by enhancing GABAergic neurotransmission in the brain. It has demonstrated inflammatory and anti-cancer effects, especially promising in pancreatic cancer cases where leaf extracts were found effective. The anticancer activity might be linked to inhibiting metalloproteases (MMP 1 and 2) tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMP 2) and angiogenic factors like VEGF A and VEGF B. Flavonoids and saponins is assumed to provide this plant the hepatoprotective property. Extensive study has been conducted in the last some decades to demonstrate the pharmacological activity of its extract. Numerous chemical components including triacontanol, nerol, eugenol, oleanoic acid, sterols, and betaine have been identified. Computational docking studies helped predicting the interaction between plant-derived molecule and specific protein targets. The docking studies of molecules from this plant help to target two mutated BRAF and NRAS genes. Utilizing in-silico tools, the plant's bioactive compounds for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer applications are also evaluated. ADMET analysis further supports their drug-like properties and safety profiles. Molecular docking studies reveal that certain saponins from this plant exhibits high binding affinity for COX-2 and 5-LOX enzymes, which are key players in inflammatory pathways.