Phytochemical And Antibacterial Profiling Of Andrographis Paniculata Against Emerging Uropathogenic Threats

Abstract

Andrographis paniculata (A. paniculata), known as the "King of Bitters," has received attention for its pharmacological activities, including antimicrobial activity. The phytochemical characterization and antibacterial activity of the A. paniculata leaf extract against emerging uropathogenic bacteria are presented using a detailed analytical approach. Soxhlet extraction with methanol was performed to obtain a phytochemically rich extract. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analyses have revealed potent bioactive components, including flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, which are known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.

Plant identity was ascertained by DNA barcoding, and A. paniculata was sequenced using the rbcL gene region. The antibacterial activity of the extract against the clinical uropathogens Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumonia), Proteus mirabilis (P. mirabilis), and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) was assessed by agar well diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC).

The results showed dose-dependent antibacterial activity, as significant inhibition zones against E. coli and K. pneumonia and low MIC values indicated high sensitivity to the extract. This study revealed the potential of A. paniculata as a natural antibacterial drug against non-multidrug-resistant uropathogens. With the growing interest in plant-based antimicrobials, these findings highlight the potential of A. paniculata to produce alternative remedies for UTIs. Further investigations, including compound purification and in vivo experiments, are required to understand the pharmacological and toxic effects of phytochemicals from A. paniculata. This study contributes to phytopharmacology and supports the incorporation of traditional medicinal plants in antimicrobial drug discovery.