Antioxidant Activities of Isolated Endophytic Fungi from Vitex Doniana Using DPPH and Frap Techniques

Endophytic fungi are recognized for producing bioactive secondary metabolites, including those with antioxidant properties. This research assessed the antioxidant capacity of six fungal isolates: Cryptococcus sp.,Trichophyton sp., Trichophyton sp., Acremonium sp., and two strains of Aspergillus flavus, through IC₅₀ and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays. The IC₅₀ values ranged notably from 42.521 µg/mL to 9.303 × 10¹³ µg/mL, while ascorbic acid (used as a standard) had an IC₅₀ of 25.000 µg/mL. Trichophyton sp. and Aspergillus flavus (B) exhibited significant antioxidant activity with low IC₅₀ values and high FRAP ratings, indicating a strong ability to reduce oxidative stress. Conversely, Trichophyton sp. and Acremonium sp. showed minimal activity. These results highlight certain endophytic fungi as potential natural sources of antioxidants, applicable in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or food industries. Further investigation into metabolite characterization and compound isolation is advised for a deeper understanding of their bioactive profiles.