Ketosteroid Standardized Cissus quadrangularis L. Extract and its Anabolic Activity: Time to Look Beyond Ketosteroid?
Atul N Jadhav1, Mohammed Rafiq2, Rajendran Devanathan3
1Department of Phytochemistry, R and D Center, The Himalaya Drug Company, Makali, Tumkur Road, Bangalore 562 123, India.
Pharmacognosy Magazine
|June 10, 2016
Summary
This study found that the commonly believed 3-ketosteroid content in Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) extracts does not correlate with its bone health benefits. Further research is needed to identify the actual active compounds in CQ for accurate standardization.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Phytochemistry
- Bone Biology
Background:
- Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) is traditionally associated with bone health benefits.
- Previous reports suggest CQ contains 3-ketosteroids, which are thought to contribute to its anabolic and bone-promoting effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between ketosteroid content and the anabolic/bone health activities of various Cissus extracts.
- To evaluate Cissus extracts in an orchidectomized (ORX) rat model.
Main Methods:
- CQ extracts (supercritical CO2, ethyl acetate, aqueous) were prepared and standardized for ketosteroid content.
- Standardized extracts were tested for anabolic activity in an established ORX rat model.
Main Results:
- The aqueous extract (CQ-AE) showed the most significant increase in body weight and bone parameters (density, strength, calcium content).
- No correlation was found between the measured ketosteroid content and the observed anabolic or bone-promoting effects.
Conclusions:
- The current standardization of Cissus extracts based on 3-ketosteroids is scientifically inaccurate.
- The beneficial effects of CQ on bone health are not attributable to 3-ketosteroids.
- Extensive bioactivity-guided studies are required to identify the true active principles in Cissus quadrangularis.
