Chemical profiles and pharmacological attributes of Apis cerana indica beehives using combined experimental and computer-aided studies

The study explored the chemical profiles and pharmacological attributes of Apis cerana indica beehive extracts, particularly focusing on a water-soluble extract (WSE-BH). The extract demonstrated significant anxiolytic, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory effects in mice, with notable results at a 150 mg/kg dose, comparable to fluoxetine. GC-MS analysis identified 19 compounds, highlighting high phenol and flavonoid content. WSE-BH also showed moderate antioxidant activity and significant clot lysis ability. Molecular docking studies suggested strong binding affinities of bioactive compounds to target proteins, indicating potential therapeutic applications for anxiety, depression, inflammation, and possibly neurodevelopmental disorders. Further studies are recommended to explore these neuroprotective properties.