Antimicrobial activity of bioactive compounds extracted from Chara globularis Thuill

Background: The algae, a vastly diversified group of species on Earth, offer numerous benefits to humanity. Chara globularis is one such green alga that contains potential bioactive compounds. Methodology: This current study investigates the antifungal and antibacterial potential of Chara globularis extracts obtained using methanol, acetone, and hexane solvents, along with their phytochemical and medicinal profiles. Results & discussion: The antifungal activity was evaluated against clinically significant fungal strains, including Microsporum gypsum, Trichophyton rubrum, and T. mentagrophytes. The methanol extracts exhibited the most potent inhibition zones, with T. rubrum showing a maximum inhibition of 24 mm at a concentration of 4 mg. Also, antibacterial assays against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae demonstrated strong activity, especially in methanol and acetone extracts at higher concentrations. Comparative control studies using fluconazole and tetracycline confirmed the efficacy of the extracts, suggesting potential for pharmaceutical application. GC-MS analysis of the methanol extract identified 26 bioactive compounds, notably pentadecanoic acid and eicosatrienoic acid, which possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. Conclusion: Nutrient profiling further revealed high levels of essential macro and micronutrients, highlighting the nutritional value of Chara globularis. The findings support the plant’s potential as a natural source of therapeutic agents with broad-spectrum antimicrobial and nutraceutical applications.