UHPLC-HRMS profiling and antibacterial activity of Grewia cissoides hutch. & Dalziel from Togo

Abstract

Grewia cissoides, used in Togolese traditional medicine to treat infections and inflammatory conditions, was investigated for its antibacterial properties and phytochemical composition. The ethanolic leaf extract was analyzed by phytochemical screening and LC-HRMS, with antibacterial activity evaluated against seven microbial strains using agar diffusion and broth dilution methods. Phytochemical analysis revealed phenols, flavonoids, tannins, sterols, terpenoids, quinones, reducing sugars, and cardiotonic glycosides, while alkaloids and saponins were absent. LC-HRMS identified 21 secondary metabolites, predominantly flavonoids. The extract showed bacteriostatic activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC=12.5 mg/mL; MBC=50 mg/mL) and bactericidal effects against Clostridium perfringens (MIC=12.5 mg/mL; MBC=12.5 mg/mL). No activity was observed against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella Typhimurium), Listeria monocytogenes and Candida albicans. These findings support G. cissoides traditional use against bacterial infections, particularly due to its flavonoid-rich composition and efficacy against Gram-positive pathogens. The selective antibacterial activity warrants further investigation for potential therapeutic applications.