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The present study was focused to isolate the bioactive compounds present in the leaves of Moringa oleifera which contains a high nutritional value. Furthermore, the research was aimed to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-aging, and anti-neurodegenerative properties of M. oleifera using the experimental model Caenorhabditis elegans. The separation of compounds from the crude extract and its identification was carried out through TLC, Column chromatography, UV absorption spectroscopy, and GC-MS. The compounds identified in most abundant fraction of column chromatography were [Phenol-2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)- phosphite (3:1)] and Tetratetracontane. The result suggests that the leaves extracts and column fraction were able to significantly extend the life span of the N2 wild-type strain of C. elegans. The most potent life span extending effect was displayed by the dichloromethane extract of leaves which was 21.73 ± 0.142 days compared to the control (16.55 ± 0.02 days). It could also extend the health span through improved physiological functions such as pharyngeal pumping, body bending, and reversal frequency with increased age. The treated worms were also exhibited improved resistance to thermal stress, oxidative stress, and reduced intracellular ROS accumulation. Moreover, the leaves extract could elicit neuroprotection as it could delay the paralysis in the transgenic strain of C. elegans 'CL4176' integrated with Aβ. Interestingly, The RNAi experiment demonstrated that the extended life span under the treatment of extracts and the compound was daf-16 dependent. In transgenic C. elegans TJ356, the DAF-16 transcription factor was localized in the nucleus under the stress conditions, further supported the involvement of the daf-16 gene in longevity. Overall, the study suggests the potential of M. oleifera as a dietary supplement and alternative medicine to defend against oxidative stress and aging. © King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology 2020.
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