Dibenzofurans from Cladonia corniculata Ahti and Kashiw inhibit key enzymes involved in inflammation and gout: An in vitro approach

Abstract

The usage of natural sources like lichen extracts and their metabolites as anti-inflammatory agents is well known for ages. Based on the data of the folklore and documented books, researchers tested lichens and their products for anti-inflammatory properties and they identified many therapeutic agents used to diagnosis acute and chronic inflammation with lesser side effects. In this study, we aimed to examine the acetone extract of Cladonia corniculata(AE)and its metabolites for in vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-gout effects. Through chemical investigation, we have successfully isolated and identified three known dibenzofurans, namely alectosarmentin 1, porphyrilic acid 2, and strepsilin 3 from the AE. All isolated dibenzofurans1-3 showed prominent inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes, whereas compounds 1 and 2 exhibited noticeable inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase enzyme. Only compound 2 showed significant inhibition of xanthine oxidase enzyme with an IC₅₀ value of 80.17±0.66 µg/mL, while standard drug allopurinol with 9.10±0.64 µg/mL. The results indicate that C. corniculatacan be a favourable natural source for the treatment of inflammation and gout and these actions are linked to the natural active dibenzofurans1-3.