Steroidal saponins from Trillium govanianum as α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitory agents

Objective To provide the scientific basis for the utility of rhizome of Trillium govanianum as nutraceutical supplements in managing physiological glycemic levels. Methods The in vitro enzyme inhibitory activity of the extract, fractions, and the isolated steroidal saponins from the rhizome part of T. govanianum was carried out against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase IV. The molecular interactions, binding score, and pharmacokinetic parameters (absorption, distribution metabolism, and excretion) of steroidal saponins were analyzed by the Schrodinger molecular docking software. Key findings Current study explained that the extract, fractions, and isolated steroidal saponins from T. govanianum possess good α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity while moderate dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitory activity. Moreover, in vitro results revealed that borassoside E (IC50 7.15 ± 1.78 μM), protodioscin (IC50 6.72 ± 0.04 μM), and diosgenin (IC50 12.75 ± 2.70 μM) are most effective in inhibiting the activity of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase IV, respectively. Current in silico and in vitro studies established an association between the steroidal saponins from T. govanianum and their molecular interactions with α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase IV. Conclusion The results of this investigation suggest that fractions and steroidal saponins from T. govanianum exhibit good antidiabetic activity which could be used as nutraceutical supplements for the management of systemic glucose level.