A comprehensive study on the biological activities of protein-rich earthworm (Perionyx excavatus) extracts collected in Vietnam

Earthworm extracts are increasingly recognized for their bioactive compounds and therapeutic potential. This study evaluated the bioactive properties of acetone extracts (AC1:2 and AC1:4) from Perionyx excavatus, emphasizing their potential applications. Both extracts demonstrated high protein content (70.247–71.150%), with AC1:4 showing significantly higher amino acid levels (31.697 g/100 g) compared to AC1:2 (12.727 g/100 g). Key amino acids identified included aspartic acid, glycine, alanine, leucine, tyrosine, lysine, and histidine, known for their physiological and therapeutic benefits. AC1:4 exhibited superior antioxidant activity, with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 1.077 ± 0.088 mg/mL and 0.892 ± 0.037 mg/mL in DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. It also showed potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages (IC50 = 0.352 ± 0.025 mg/mL). Additionally, AC1:4 demonstrated strong inhibitory activity against elastase (IC50 = 5.372 ± 0.333 mg/mL), tyrosinase (IC50 = 0.12 ± 0.013 mg/mL), and MMP-1 (IC50 = 4.885 ± 0.228 mg/mL), highlighting its potential for skincare and anti-aging applications. These findings underscore the promise of P. excavatus acetone extracts, particularly AC1:4, as a sustainable and natural source of bioactive compounds for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals.