Project Abstract

This project aims to investigate and compare the antioxidant potential of native and improved varieties of medicinal plants, which is of paramount importance in the field of phytochemistry and pharmacology. Medicinal plants have long been recognized for their diverse bioactive compounds, including antioxidants, which play a crucial role in mitigating the detrimental effects of oxidative stress on human health. Understanding the antioxidant capacities of different plant varieties can provide valuable insights into the development of potent and effective natural therapeutic agents. The study will focus on a selection of medicinal plants that are commonly used in traditional and modern healthcare systems. These plants will include both native and improved (genetically modified or selectively bred) varieties, which will be subjected to comprehensive phytochemical analysis and in vitro antioxidant assays. The native varieties will represent the naturally occurring plants found in their indigenous habitats, while the improved varieties will be those that have been genetically or agriculturally enhanced to exhibit desirable traits, such as increased biomass, higher metabolite production, or enhanced stress tolerance. The project will employ a range of analytical techniques to evaluate the antioxidant potential of the plant samples. These may include total phenolic and flavonoid content determination, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assay, ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)) radical cation decolorization assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, and other standard methods. Additionally, the identification and quantification of specific antioxidant compounds, such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and vitamins, will be carried out using analytical techniques like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The comparative analysis of the antioxidant potential between native and improved varieties will provide valuable insights into the impact of genetic and agricultural interventions on the production and accumulation of these beneficial phytochemicals. This information can be utilized to guide the selection and cultivation of medicinal plants with enhanced antioxidant properties, ultimately leading to the development of more potent and effective natural health products. Furthermore, the findings of this project will contribute to the broader understanding of the relationship between plant genotypes, environmental factors, and the biosynthesis of antioxidant compounds. This knowledge can be applied to optimize the cultivation and processing of medicinal plants, ensuring the availability of high-quality raw materials for the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. In conclusion, this comprehensive study on the comparative analysis of antioxidant potential in native and improved varieties of medicinal plants holds significant potential to advance the field of phytochemistry and phytomedicine. The insights gained from this project can inform the development of innovative natural-based therapeutic solutions and promote the sustainable use of medicinal plant resources.

Project Overview