Antiulcer and antioxidant properties of Capparis aphylla plant extracts using in-vivo and in-silico techniques

Abstract: Background: Gastric ulcer is a prevalent global health issue, often associated with oxidative stress and limited by the adverse effects of conventional therapies. Although Capparis aphylla (Roth) has been traditionally used in folk medicine to manage gastric disorders, its pharmacological activity and underlying mechanisms remain poorly explored. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective and antioxidant effects of Capparis aphylla stem bark extracts using an in-vivo ethanol-induced rat model, along with in silico molecular docking analysis. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were administered crude hydro-methanolic extract (CAC), aqueous (CAA), or butanolic (CAB) fractions at doses of 100-400 mg/kg for 14 consecutive days. Gastric ulcers were induced using absolute ethanol (90% v/v, 5 mL/kg), followed by daily exposure to 80% ethanol to maintain gastric injury. Ranitidine (50 mg/kg) served as the reference drug. Evaluations included the ulcer index (UI), percentage protection, gastric juice pH, total acidity, and oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH, MDA, and nitrite). Phytochemicals identified via GC-MS were subjected to molecular docking against EP3, H₂ and AT1R receptors. Results: The butanolic fraction (CAB) at 400 mg/kg exhibited the highest gastroprotective effect (90% inhibition), surpassing ranitidine (44.1%). Treatment groups showed significant restoration of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GSH) and marked reductions in MDA and nitrite levels (p < 0.001). Among the 17 identified compounds, 9-octadecenoic acid methyl ester demonstrated the strongest binding affinity (−7.9 kcal/mol) toward the EP3 receptor. Histopathological findings further confirmed restoration of gastric mucosal integrity, particularly in the CAB-treated group. Conclusion: Capparis aphylla exhibits potent anti-ulcer activity through a synergistic mechanism involving suppression of oxidative stress and modulation of gastric acid secretion. These findings provide scientific validation for its traditional use and highlight its promising gastroprotective potential.