Phytochemistry Open Access

Comprehensive Alkaloid Profiling of Six Nigerian Vernonia Species Using LC-MS/MS

Journal of Ethnopharmacology October 2025 Adeyemi, F.O., Okonkwo, C.N., Ibrahim, M.A., Walsh, S.R. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2025.118432

Abstract

This study presents the first comprehensive alkaloid profiling of six Vernonia species endemic to Nigeria using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). A total of 47 alkaloid compounds were identified, including 12 previously unreported structures. Quantitative analysis revealed significant interspecies variation in sesquiterpene lactone content, with V. amygdalina showing the highest concentration of vernodalin (2.3 ± 0.4 mg/g dry weight).

Key Findings

Our analysis identified three novel sesquiterpene lactone derivatives with potential antimalarial activity. In-vitro testing against chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum (W2 strain) demonstrated IC50 values ranging from 0.8 to 3.2 μg/mL, comparable to established antimalarial compounds.

Significance

These findings provide a scientific foundation for the traditional use of Vernonia species in malaria treatment across West Africa and support further development of standardized botanical preparations for clinical evaluation.

Back to Publications