Extraction and Isolation of Bioactive Compounds From Malpighia glabra L. Leaves: In Vivo Investigation of the Leaf Extract Against Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Triggered by γ-Radiation.

Malpighia glabra L. (Acerola), belonging to the family Malpighiaceae, is highly rich in phenolics, flavonoids and ascorbic acid content, which are collectively recognized for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Since ionizing radiation harm is primarily driven by excessive reactive oxygen species generation and persistent inflammation, this study aimed to explore the radioprotective potential of Malpighia glabra leaf extract (MLE) and identify its bioactive constituents. β-isoarborinol, afzelechin, engeletin, and flavonoid glycosides had been isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction, and their structures were assigned based on NMR/MS data. Histopathological examination revealed that MLE treatment attenuated radiation-induced histopathological alterations in multiple organs of irradiated rats. The anti-inflammatory activity of MLE was elucidated by suppression of the intestinal NF-κB/TNF-α signaling cascade, along with systemic suppression of serum TNF-α (>70%) and CRP (>25%). MLE restored redox homeostasis by normalizing GSH, TBARs and TAC levels, ultimately preserving hepatic and renal functions. Otherwise, MLE exhibited modest protective effects on haematological parameters, accompanied by dose-dependent preservation of body weight. These findings identify MLE as a promising natural radioprotective agent and provide a mechanistic basis for its further development as an adjunct strategy to reduce radiation-induced systemic and tissue alterations in a dose-dependent manner.