GC-MS Analysis and Anti-microbial Potential of Prunus ceylanica (Wight) Miq.: An Endangered Plant in India

Abstract

Prunus ceylanica (Wight) Miq. is an endangered plant in India. It is imperative to explore the phytochemical composition and biological activities of this species. In this study, we employed GC-MS analysis to identify and characterize the phytochemical compounds present in Prunus ceylanica. Additionally, we evaluated its anti-microbial properties against microbial strains namely Bacillus subtilis (MTCC-441), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC-737), Escherichia coli (MTCC-452), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC-2297), Aspergillus flavus (MTCC-873) and Candida tropicalis (MTCC-1406). Methanol, Ethyl acetate and Acetone solvents extracts obtained from different parts of the plant were subjected to GC-MS analysis using an electron impact ionization technique. A comprehensive analysis of the obtained spectra revealed the presence of 29 phytochemical compounds in this plant. Notably, 29 of these compounds have been previously identified with known biological activities. The identified compounds belong to diverse chemical classes, including alkanes, alkenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and ketones. Interestingly, some of the fragmentation patterns observed in this species were described for the first time, indicating the unique phytochemical profile of P. ceylanica. The results demonstrated promising anti-microbial activity, suggesting that this endangered plant possesses potent bioactive compounds. In conclusion, our study utilizing GC-MS analysis elucidated the phytochemical composition of P. ceylanica and unveiled its anti-microbial potential. These results contribute to the understanding of the medicinal properties of this endangered plant, emphasizing the importance of its conservation and providing insights for future drug development and biotechnological applications.