Abstract

Introduction: The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) by organophosphates poses significant health risks. This study investigated the potential of an aqueous extract of carob seed (Ceratonia siliqua), rich in phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity, to modulate AChE activity and facilitate its reactivation after inhibition by organophosphate toxicants.
Materials and Methods: An aqueous extraction was performed on ground seeds. Functional groups in the extract were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Antioxidant properties at concentrations of 100, 500, and 1000 μg/mL were assessed via the DPPH free radical scavenging and Folin-Ciocalteu methods. The Ellman method was used to analyze serum AChE activity and its reactivation after inhibition by diazinon when treated with the extract.
Results: The IC50 for DPPH radical inhibition was 372.10 μg/mL. The findings show the aqueous carob seed extract exhibits significant antioxidant properties. It modulated AChE activity in a concentration-dependent manner and facilitated the reactivation of the enzyme inhibited by diazinon.
Conclusion: The aqueous extract of carob seed demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, activated AChE, and effectively reactivated the enzyme after inhibition by diazinon, suggesting its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate against organophosphate poisoning.