The extract contains a variety of bioactive compounds. These include polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins. These components are believed to contribute to its potential health - promoting effects. For example, the polysaccharides have immunomodulatory properties. They can help to enhance the body's immune function by stimulating the activity of immune cells such as macrophages and lymphocytes.
The flavonoids possess antioxidant activities. They can scavenge free radicals in the body, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and tissues. By reducing oxidative stress, flavonoids may play a role in preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.
Astragaloside IV is one of the important active components in Astragalus extract.
| Product name | Astragalus extract | Astragalus extract Polysaccharides | Astragalus extract Cyloastragenol | Astragalus extract Astragaloside IV |
| Specification | 5:1, 10:1, 20:1 | 5%, 10%, 20%, 40%, 50%, 90% | 99% | 0.3%~98% |
| Test Method | TLC | UV | HPLC | HPLC |
The function of Astragaloside IV
1. Cardioprotective Functions
Ischemia - Reperfusion Injury Prevention: Astragaloside IV is effective in protecting the heart from ischemia - reperfusion injury. When the heart muscle's blood supply is cut off (ischemia) and then restored (reperfusion), it can lead to oxidative stress and cell death. Astragaloside IV can reduce the infarct size by decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are highly reactive molecules that cause damage to cells during this process. For example, in experimental studies, treatment with astragaloside IV has been shown to significantly limit the area of damaged heart tissue after ischemia - reperfusion events.
Enhanced Cardiac Function: It can improve the contractility of cardiomyocytes. By acting on the calcium - handling mechanisms of the heart cells, it helps the heart muscle to contract more efficiently, which in turn enhances the overall cardiac output. This means that the heart is better able to pump blood throughout the body, improving circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues.
2. Neuroprotective Effects
Antioxidant Defense in the Nervous System: In the brain and nervous system, astragaloside IV functions as a powerful antioxidant. It scavenges free radicals such as superoxide anions and hydroxyl radicals. These free radicals are generated during normal brain metabolism and can cause damage to neurons. By eliminating these harmful molecules, astragaloside IV helps to maintain the integrity of neuronal cells and their membranes.
Anti - Inflammatory Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases: It can suppress neuroinflammation, which is a key factor in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Astragaloside IV reduces the production and release of pro - inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin - 1β and tumor necrosis factor - α in the brain. This anti - inflammatory effect helps to protect neurons from damage and slows down the progression of neurodegenerative processes. In addition, it may also enhance the function of the blood - brain barrier, preventing the entry of harmful substances into the brain.
3. Anti - Diabetic Properties
Blood Glucose Regulation: Astragaloside IV can play a role in regulating blood glucose levels. It improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues such as muscle and fat. Insulin is a hormone that helps cells to take up glucose from the bloodstream. By increasing the sensitivity of cells to insulin, astragaloside IV helps to lower blood glucose levels. In diabetic animal models, treatment with astragaloside IV has been shown to reduce hyperglycemia and improve glucose tolerance.
Protection of Pancreatic Beta - Cells: It also has a protective effect on pancreatic beta - cells. These cells are responsible for the production and secretion of insulin. Astragaloside IV can prevent beta - cell damage caused by factors such as oxidative stress and inflammation, ensuring the normal production of insulin and maintaining glucose homeostasis.
4. Anti - Tumor Potential
Inhibition of Tumor Cell Proliferation: Astragaloside IV can inhibit the growth and proliferation of tumor cells. It acts on various signaling pathways involved in cell division and survival. For example, it can interfere with the PI3K - Akt - mTOR pathway, which is often over - activated in cancer cells and promotes their growth. By suppressing these pathways, astragaloside IV can slow down the growth of tumors.
Enhancement of Immune Surveillance Against Tumors: It can also boost the body's immune response against cancer. Astragaloside IV activates immune cells such as natural killer cells and cytotoxic T - lymphocytes, which are capable of recognizing and destroying tumor cells. This immunomodulatory effect helps to enhance the body's natural defense against cancer and may potentially be used in combination with other cancer therapies.
5. Anti - Aging and Skin - Protecting Benefits
Cellular Anti - Aging: At the cellular level, astragaloside IV can activate cellular antioxidant defense systems and increase the expression of anti - aging genes. It can reduce the senescence of cells by inhibiting the activation of senescence - associated signaling pathways. This helps to maintain the youthful function of cells and tissues, delaying the overall aging process.
Skin Health Improvement: In the context of skin, astragaloside IV can improve skin hydration, elasticity, and texture. It promotes collagen synthesis in the skin, which is essential for maintaining skin firmness. By reducing oxidative damage and inflammation in the skin, it can also help to prevent skin aging symptoms such as wrinkles, fine lines, and age - spots.
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