Characterization of phenolic compounds and evaluation of anti-diabetic potential in Cannabis sativa L. seeds: In vivo, in vitro, and in silico studies

Abstract Moroccan Cannabis sativa L. seeds were investigated for their phenolic profile and antidiabetic potential. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry analysis revealed a rich phenolic composition, including benzoic acid, cannabisin B, genistein, and epicatechin. In vitro, the seed extract exhibited potent α-amylase inhibitory activity (half-maximal inhibitory concentration = 25.02 ± 4.03 μg/mL). In vivo studies in diabetic rats demonstrated significant hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective effects. Molecular docking studies further supported these findings, revealing strong interactions between identified phenolic and the α-amylase enzyme. These results highlight the potential of C. sativa seeds as a natural source of bioactive compounds for diabetes management.