Phytochemical investigation and in vitro biological evaluation of Beta vulgaris leaves as anti-diabetic, anti-Alzheimer’s and anti-inflammatory agents with computer-guided docking study

Beta vulgaris, known as beetroot, is renowned for its rich reserves of various biologically active compounds. Despite an extensive review of the available literature, there is a dearth of comprehensive information on the specific phytochemicals composition and biological belongings of beet leaves. Hence, the study aimed to examine the comprehensive chemical composition of red beet leaves and evaluate their potential as antidiabetic, anti-Alzheimer’s, and anti-inflammatory. LC–ESI–MS/MS in both positive and negative ionization modes identified eleven flavonoids, seven coumarins, seven pigments, four phenolic acids, four saponins, one sterol, and one fatty acid. Furthermore, eight flavonoidal compounds were successfully isolated using column chromatography technique. The ethanolic extract of Beta vulgaris leaves exhibited notable inhibitory effects on carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes and moderate AChE inhibition, as well as a significant anti-inflammatory effect in a dose-dependent pattern. By employing molecular docking analysis, the interactions between the isolated compounds and the target proteins were examined and compared. Out of all the compounds, quercetin-3-methoxy-4-glucosyl-7-glucoside displayed the highest docking score, which was determined based on the binding free energy and the formation of hydrogen bonds. The biological outcomes signpost that B. vulgaris leaves extract exhibits numerous advantageous belongings. Molecular docking analysis has supported these biological discoveries.