GC-MS based chemical profiling, and evaluation of the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of Sapindus mukorossi seed extract

Abstract

Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn. is a deciduous tree distributed across tropical and subtropical Asia known for its bioactive properties. This study evaluates the chemical profile of a regionally distinct variant from Manipur, Northeast India. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed with the tentatively identifying novel constituents not previously reported in this species. The major compounds include 3-methyl-4-oxopentanoic acid (63.15% peak area, RI 1046), caffeine (25.03%, RI 1795), and 1,2,3-benzenetriol (3.57%, RI 1342). The seed kernel extract exhibited notable antibacterial activity at 10 mg/mL against E. coli (Zone of Inhibition (ZOI): 11.83 ± 0.29 mm) and S. mutans (ZOI: 10.67 ± 0.58 mm), alongside moderate antioxidant potency (2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) IC₅₀: 180.26 µg/mL) consistent with established literature. The Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays further confirmed substantial reducing power (355.394 µM Fe(II)/g), surpassing many prior studies on this species. These findings suggest that S. mukorossi seed kernel extract may serve as a probable natural resource for the development of antimicrobial and antioxidant agents.