Exploring Lichen Derived Compounds for Therapeutic Potential in Diabetes Management

Nature has been a profound source of medicinal agents for millennia, with numerous modern drugs derived from natural sources. Many of these discoveries stem from traditional medicine practices. Plants, in particular, are rich in secondary metabolites like tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids, known for their antimicrobial properties. Among these, lichens, which are symbiotic organisms consisting of a fungus and an alga, present significant potential for medical exploration. Studies have shown that lichen metabolites, such as depsides, depsidones, and usnic acid, exhibit activity against mycobacteria and Gram-positive bacteria. With the growing ineffectiveness of some conventional drugs, there is renewed interest in lichen compounds. This study focuses on the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of lichens from Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India. Extracts from these lichens were analyzed using LC-MS and various assays, including phenol content, FRAP, ORAC, and DPPH, revealing substantial antioxidant activity. In vitro tests for inhibiting pancreatic lipase, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase, along with in silico predictions of pharmacokinetic properties, toxicity risks, and molecular interactions, demonstrated notable inhibitory potential. This research enhances our understanding of bioactive compounds in lichens from temperate and polar regions and highlights their potential as natural alternatives for treating diseases linked to oxidative stress and metabolic syndrome.