Abstract
The root and aerial parts of Cotoneaster microphyllus were subjected to extraction and isolation of phytochemicals. The extracts were evaluated for their antioxidant anthelmintic, antimicrobial, and anticholinesterase potentials using standard protocols. Crude extract of aerial parts and roots, more potently scavenged DPPH free radicals with IC
50
values of 83 and 66 μg/mL while ABTS with 92 and 90 μg/mL respectively. Chloroform fraction exhibited highest anthelmintic activity followed by ethyl acetate fraction. Ethyl acetate fraction produced high zone of inhibition against selected bacterial and fungal strains. Maximum phenolic contents and vitamin C were found in the ethyl-acetate and chloroform fractions and were therefore, biologically the most potent fractions. Ethyl acetate fraction exhibited highest anticholinesterase potential and was therefore subjected to silica gel column chromatography which resulted in the isolation of one new (1) and four known (2-5) compounds. The isolated compounds were also screened for anticholinesterase potentials. Compound 3, most potently inhibited acetyl cholinesterase and butyryl cholinesterase with IC
50
value of 66 and 114 μg/mL, respectively. The extracts exhibited antioxidant, anticholinesterase, anthelmintic and antimicrobial potentials that should be further subjected for the isolation of other responsible compounds in pure state. As anticholinesterase compound 3 is a good candidate to be tested in animal models.