Galactolipids from Bauhinia racemosa as a new class of antifilarial agents against human lymphatic filarial parasite, Brugia malayi

Bioassay guided fractionation of ethanolic extract of the leaves of Bauhinia racemosa led to the isolation of galactolipid and catechin class of the compounds (1–7) from the most active n-butanol fraction (F4). Among the active galactolipids, 1 emerged as the lead molecule which was active on both forms of lymphatic filarial parasite, Brugia malayi. It was found to be better than the standard drug ivermectin and diethylcarbamazine (DEC) in terms of dose and efficacy.

Galactolipids isolated from Bauhinia racemosa showed antifilarial activity against B. malayi. Galactolipid 1 was found to be the lead molecule showing better results than the standard drugsFigure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Galactolipids were identified as a new class of antifilarial agents.
► Galactolipid 1 was the lead molecule, active on both life stages of B. malayi.
► It showed 58.3 ± 8.33% adulticidal activity at a dose of 50 mg/kg, i.p.
► It was better than the standard drug DEC in terms of dose and efficacy.