Antimicrobial and Hepatoprotective Properties of Pods of Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. ex Delile: In Vivo and In Silico Approaches

Background: Acacia nilotica is a multipurpose plant known for its remedial properties but the antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity of its pods remained unexplored. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity of n-hexane (ANPH) and methanol (ANPM) extracts of pods to scientifically validate their medicinal claims. Methods: After the pharmacognostic evaluation of pods, in vitro tests were carried out to estimate phenolic and flavonoid content and antimicrobial potential. In vivo experiments involved testing of both extracts (250 and 500 mg/kg) paracetamol (PCM)-induced hepatotoxicity model in rats. The molecular docking studies explored insights into the potential binding capabilities of the ligands with the specific target proteins. Results: ANPH and ANPM were enriched with phenols and flavonoids and showed antimicrobial effects. In the hepatoprotective test, the rats chronically treated with extracts had a dose-dependent hepatoprotection as markers of liver functionality were notably reduced (P < 0.05). The in silico studies revealed strong binding interactions of ergost-5-en-3-ol and oxiranyl methyl ester 9-octadecenoic acid with target proteins for antibacterial activity and hepatoprotective activity, respectively. Conclusion: The antimicrobial and hepatoprotective potential of pods might be due to their phenols and flavonoids. The Pyrogallol, Ergost-5-en-3-and 9-octadecenoic acid might be bringing these remedial benefits through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.