Abstract :
Anthocyanins, natural flavonoid compounds abundantly found in Roselle flowers (Hibiscus sabdariffa), are known for their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to explore the potential of anthocyanins as therapeutic agents by investigating their molecular interactions with key proteins implicated in inflammation, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), interleukin-1 Beta (IL-1β), and caspase-1. Molecular docking simulations were performed using AutoDock and AutoDock Vina, with target protein structures retrieved from the Protein Data Bank (PDB IDs: 6F6R, 5IKT, 8C3U, and 6ZFL). The docking protocol was validated through re-docking of original ligands, achieving Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) values ≤2 Å. Anthocyanins demonstrated significant binding affinities, with binding energies ranging from -4.85 to -7.59 kcal/mol, and established interactions with key amino acid residues of the target proteins. In addition to docking, Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET) predictions were conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties of anthocyanins, revealing favorable absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and low toxicity profiles. These findings highlight the potential of anthocyanins as bioactive compounds with therapeutic efficacy against chronic inflammation. The integration of molecular docking and ADMET analysis underscores their viability for further development as natural anti-inflammatory agents, paving the way for subsequent in vitro and in vivo validations.