FROM PHYLOGENY TO PHARMACOLOGY: THERAPEUTIC INSIGHTS INTO THE ANTI-DIABETIC POTENTIAL OF MOMORDICA CYMBALARIA

Momordica cymbalaria, an underexplored vegetable crop native to India, holds significant therapeutic potential due to its traditional antidiabetic use. This study explores its phylogenetic characterization, protein structure modelling, and phytochemical profiling, emphasizing its role in diabetes management. The 5.8S rRNA internal transcribed spacer sequence was retrieved from NCBI and analysed using BLAST, identifying 17 related species and insights into its evolutionary positioning. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close relationships with Momordi cafoetida and distant similarity to Momordica balsamina. Protein structure prediction using SWISS-MODEL and PyMOL identified key structural features and active sites. Three open reading frames (ORFs) were identified, potentially encoding proteins involved in diabetes-related pathways. Phytochemical analysis using Dr. Duke’s and IMPPAT databases highlighted bioactive compounds such as beta-sitosterol, ergosterol, and alpha-eleostearic acid (ESA), a potent antidiabetic compound. ESA modulates the adipose deposition pathway and improves glucose regulation by interacting with proteins like peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) and ribosomal protein L19. In-silico analysis demonstrated ESA’s ability to enhance GLUT-4 and beta-glucokinase activity, facilitating glucose uptake and improving metabolic efficiency. These findings underline the molecular basis of antidiabetic properties in Momordica cymbalaria, emphasizing its potential as a natural therapeutic. This study provides a strong foundation for pharmacological research, blending traditional knowledge with modern science to advance plant-based diabetes management.