In Silico Investigation of Pajanelia longifolia (Willd.) K. Schum Bark Extract against NSCLC Targets: Potential Involvement in Apoptotic Pathways

Nature provides innumerable answers to human problems, but our knowledge is restricted. The use of medicinal plants to treat health problems dates back to ancient times., It has evolved into contemporary techniques that combine traditional knowledge with modern medicine. Cancer, the biggest cause of mortality worldwide, remains difficult to treat properly. This study focusses on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)., The most common type of lung cancer, accounting for 85–90% of occurrences and associated with factors such as smoking and pollution. Pajanelia longifolia, an Indian traditional medicinal herb, has therapeutic potential and has historically been used to cure a variety of diseases. This study examines the phytochemical elements of P. longifolia bark using metabolite profiling. It evaluates its anti-NSCLC activity using computational methods. The key compounds were identified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and molecular docking was performed against protein B-Raf and EGFR, both linked to cancer proliferation. The findings emphasise the potential of P. longifolia as a source of bioactive chemicals for cancer therapy. They highlight the need for additional investigation into its medicinal potential, particularly in combination with proven medicines such as irinotecan.