A medicinal plant long used in traditional Chinese medicine contains a compound that is highly effective against osteoporosis and could lead to new therapies for the metabolic bone disease.
A new study involving experts from the Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural Products in China has identified two new compounds in Angelica sinensis (Chinese angelica), at least one of which appears to be extremely effective against osteoporosis. The corresponding study results are published in the journal “ACS Central Science”.
Problems with osteoporosis treatment
As life expectancy increases worldwide, the challenge of treating age-related diseases such as osteoporosis also increases. Although there are effective medications for treating osteoporosis, they can be very expensive and have various side effects.
However, if osteoporosis is not treated, the risk of significant disability (e.g. hip and spine fractures) and financial stress (e.g. lost wages and hospitalizations) increases.
Looking for new active ingredients against osteoporosis
Natural alternatives to treat osteoporosis are therefore urgently sought. Angelica sinensis, often referred to as Dong Quai, could be one such alternative drug candidate. The plant has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat osteoporosis.
Two previously unknown compounds identified
During the chemical extraction of the medicinal plant, the team managed to identify two previously unknown compounds, which they named falcarinphthalide A and B. These two compounds are structurally different from anything previously discovered in Angelica sinensis, the researchers explain in a press release.
In addition, they identified possible biosynthetic precursors and metabolic pathways through which plants form these compounds. Based on these mechanisms, experts managed to produce the two compounds in sufficient quantities for biological tests.
Falcarinphthalid A hemmt Osteoporose
The team examined the effects of the compounds on the formation of special cells (called osteoclasts) that promote bone loss. It was shown that only falcarinphthalide A and its precursors have osteoclast-inhibiting activity and an osteoporosis-inhibiting effect, the researchers report.
Additional analyzes finally showed that falcarinphthalide A blocks key molecular signaling pathways involved in osteoclast formation. These new findings open up opportunities for the development of new osteoporosis therapies based on this compound, the experts add. (as)
