Evaluation of Anti-angiogenic Activity of the Acetone Leaf Extract of Annona squamosa Linn. (Annonaceae)

Abstract

Objective. The study aimed to investigate the potential anti-angiogenic effects of acetone extracts from Annona squamosa leaves in vivo.

Methods. Crude acetone extract of A. squamosa leaves was prepared via simple maceration. Physicochemical and phytochemical screening of the extract were also performed. The anti-angiogenic effect of A. squamosa was assessed using in vivo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, with quantitative analysis performed using ImageJ software (U. S. National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA). The eggs were treated with 1000 ppm, 500 ppm, and 250 ppm doses of the extract. Quercetin was utilized as the positive control while distilled water was used as the negative control.

Results. The results of the study showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds in the leaves of A. squamosa. CAM assay revealed a significant (P <0.001) inhibition of blood vessel growth after 48 hours of treatment with the crude acetone extracts, particularly at the lowest concentration (250 ppm). Statistical analysis confirmed the similarity in anti-angiogenic effect between the A. squamosa extract and Quercetin.

Conclusion. The acetone extract of A. squamosa leaves possesses anti-angiogenic properties in vivo, suggesting its potential for developing anti-angiogenic agents. Further research to identify and isolate the specific bioactive compounds responsible for this activity is recommended.