Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to extract, isolate, and evaluate in vitro the antioxidant and anticancer properties of rutin from Citrus reticulata and Citrus limon.

Background: Bioflavonoids are a class of polyphenolic secondary metabolites that give plants their distinctive organoleptic properties. Rutin, also known as rutoside, is a citrus flavonoid that is found in a variety of plants, including citrus fruits, and has a wide range of pharmacological effects.

Objective: This investigation's goal was to extract, isolate, and test the antioxidant and anti-cancer properties of rutin in vitro.

Methods: By incorporating the appropriate solvent system, the Soxhlet apparatus was used to extract C. reticulata (R2) and C. limon (R3) from dried peel powder. Column chromatography was used in the isolation process. Various solvent systems on the basis of their polarity were used to isolate rutin, which further was evaluated for anti-oxidant and anti-cancer action by the use of in vitro tests.

Results: Successful extraction and isolation of rutin from two sources were achieved. Additionally, their antioxidant and anticancer activity was also evaluated by in vitro methods. Both isolated rutins (R2 and R3) possessed optimal antioxidants in the range of 31.64 to 76.28 g/ml and anticancer activity with IC₅₀ values of 4 to 7 g/ml, when compared to standard doxorubicin with an IC₅₀ value of 3g/ml. In the comparison of rutin isolated from C. reticulata with rutin isolated from C. limon, rutin isolated from C. reticulata was found to be more abundant and more potent in terms of yield and activity.

Conclusion: The study's findings are clear; Citrus reticulata species have a higher flavonoid and phenolic content, and the rutin extracted from them is an effective anti-oxidant and anti-cancer agent against lung cancer. The study can be used as a model for future studies on rutin’s role in cancer.

Graphical Abstract