Phaseolus coccineus Seed: A Valued Resource for Bioactive Compounds Targeting Health and Tumor Cells

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Human galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a lectin involved in immune responses, inflammation, and fibrosis.
• Gal-3 plays a role in cancer progression, inflammation, and oxidative stress, driving interest in its inhibitors.
• Naturally derived compounds are being explored as potential therapeutic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of *Phaseolus coccineus* seeds as a source of bioactive compounds.
• To evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects of *Phaseolus coccineus* extract.
• To determine if the extract interacts with the Carbohydrate Recognition Domain (CRD) of galectin-3.

Main Methods:

• Chemical characterization of peptide and polyphenol content in crude extracts.
• In vitro assessment of antioxidant activity.
• Evaluation of cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects on cellular models.
• Verification of extract interaction with recombinant Gal-3 CRD.

Main Results:

• The *Phaseolus coccineus* extract demonstrated significant in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
• The extract exhibited cytotoxic effects on tested cellular models.
• The crude extract was shown to interact with the Gal-3 CRD, suggesting inhibitory potential.

Conclusions:

• *Phaseolus coccineus* seeds are a valuable natural resource for bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.
• The observed biological activities are likely associated with the extract's ability to inhibit galectin-3.
• This study supports the development of natural Gal-3 inhibitors for managing inflammatory conditions and cancer.