Exploring Terminalia arjuna for in-vitro antibacterial, antifungal and in-silico antibacterial, antiviral properties

• Author Details:   
• Lalit Samant ^*
• Dhruv Mamtora
• Sonal Patil
• Khusbhu Dalvi
• Minnie Bodhanwala

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) poses a significant threat to immunocompromised individuals, with current antiviral agents such as ganciclovir, valganciclovir, foscarnet, and cidofovir facing increasing resistance due to mutations in viral genes like UL97 and UL54. This study explores the potential of ellagic acid, a major bioactive compound in Terminalia arjuna bark extract, as an alternative antiviral agent targeting HCMV protease, a critical enzyme in viral replication. Molecular docking simulations revealed a strong binding affinity of ellagic acid to HCMV protease, suggesting its ability to inhibit viral replication. Additionally, in vitro antimicrobial assays demonstrated significant activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Enterococcus faecalis, while antifungal activity against Candida albicans was weaker. Docking studies further showed ellagic acid interacting with key bacterial resistance mechanisms, including the fosfomycin-resistant gene in Klebsiella pneumoniae. These findings highlight T. arjuna extract, particularly ellagic acid, as a promising candidate for combating HCMV and antibiotic-resistant infections, with potential applications in immunocompromised patients.