Astralagus Root
Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has gained attention in the scientific community for its potential effects on cellular aging and longevity. The primary focus of research has been on its active compounds, such as cycloastragenol and astragaloside IV, which are believed to influence telomerase activity and DNA integrity.
What are Telomeres & Telomerase?
Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences at the ends of chromosomes, serving as protective caps that prevent genomic instability. Each time a cell divides, telomeres shorten, eventually leading to cellular senescence or apoptosis when they become critically short. Telomerase, a ribonucleoprotein enzyme, can counteract this shortening by adding telomeric repeats to the ends of chromosomes extending the replicative lifespan of cells.
How does it work?
Telomerase Activation:
- Cycloastragenol and Astragaloside IV: Studies have shown that these compounds can upregulate the expression of hTERT gerne (human telomerase reverse transcriptase), the catalytic subunit of telomerase. This occurs via the activation of the PI3K/Akt and ERK signaling pathways. This upregulation enhances the enzyme’s activity, allowing it to maintain or elongate telomeres in human cells.
DNA Protection and Repair:
- Antioxidant Properties: Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) and flavonoids scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and upregulate the expression of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). This reduces oxidative stress at the cellular level and helps protect genomic integrity.
- DNA Repair Enhancement: Astragalus compounds have been shown to upregulate the expression of DNA repair enzymes, like poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1). These enzymes are critical for repairing oxidative DNA damage. Improved DNA repair mechanisms help maintain genomic stability and reduce the accumulation of mutations, thereby supporting cellular longevity and reducing the risk of cancer
Antiinflammatory effects:
Astragalosides and polysaccharides inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway, which is a key regulator of inflammation. By reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, Astragalus root exerts anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally it enhances the proliferation and activity of various immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and macrophages. Enhanced immune function helps protect against infections and age-related decline in immune surveillance, which is crucial for longevity