فهرست نشریات علمی دسترسی آزاد ایران

Background and objectives: Cataract is a condition that makes the eyes blurry and is primarily associated with oxidative stress and activation of polyol pathway in lens fibres. It is the primary cause of eye illness globally. Surgery remains the most effective way, but its invasive nature and cost limits the access. Non-invasive therapy using, Sesbania grandiflora “Agathi”, rich in phenolics and flavonoids, shows promise in delaying or preventing cataract formation. This study aimed to investigate the potential of S. grandiflora using a combination of ex vivo, in vitro, in vivo and computer-based (in silico) models to explore its role in preventing cataract formation. Methods: The aqueous S. grandiflora leaf extract was partitioned through successive fractionation. The ethyl acetate-soluble metabolite pool rich in secondary metabolites was chosen for downstream experiments. Molecular docking AutoDock (PDB ID: 1X97) was used to describe the interactions between quercetin, kaempferol and aldose reductase. The extract was further screened through in vitro aldose reductase activity, ex vivo (glucose-induced goat lens opacity) and in vivo using a galactose fed rat model to determine extract's anticataract potential. Results: The extract possessed both antioxidant and aldose reductase inhibitory capacities. Lens galactitol levels were lower in the extract treated animals relative to untreated counterparts. Cataract onset was delayed, and disease progression was arrested supported by strong binding by quercetin and kaempferol to aldose reductase. Conclusion: The anti-cataract activity of S. grandiflora arises from bimodal biochemical engagement strengthening antioxidant systems while inhibiting aldose reductase, supporting its potential role as a non-invasive, natural protective agent.