Biochemistry & Analytical Biochemistry

Abstract

In Vitro Anti-Acetylcholinesterase Activity of Dichloromethane Leaf Extracts of Carphalea glaucescens in Chilo partellus Larvae

Njoroge W Anne, Ngugi M Piero, Aliyu Umar, Matheri Felix, Gitahi S Maina, Mwangi B Maina, Njagi J Muriithi, Mworia J Kiambi and Ngure G Mutero

Acetlycholinesterase (AChE) hydrolyses the neurotransmitter acetylcholine resulting in the termination of nerve impulse at the synapse. Anti-acetylcholinesterase activities stop the passage of the nerve impulse at the synapse resulting in continuous stimulation which can lead to death. The manufacturers of many pesticides target the AChE because it interferes with the passage of the nerve impulse. In vitro study revealed that DCM leaf extract of Carphalea glaucescens has anti-acetylcholinesterase activity against crude acetlycholinesterase (AChE) enzyme extracted from Chilo partellus and an IC50 of 12.02 mg/ml was calculated. After qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out the phytochemicals which were present were tannins, phenols, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids and alkaloids.