2-Phenylacetamide Isolated from the Seeds of Lepidium apetalum and Its Estrogen-Like Effects In Vitro and In Vivo.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Lepidium apetalum Willd (LA) is a traditional medicinal plant.
• Estrogenic compounds are crucial for reproductive health and treating menopausal symptoms.
• 2-phenylacetamide (PA) is the primary active compound in LA seeds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the estrogen-like effects of 2-phenylacetamide (PA) from Lepidium apetalum Willd (LA).
• To determine if PA is the active component responsible for LA's estrogenic activity.
• To explore the potential therapeutic applications of LA and PA.

Main Methods:

• In vitro cell proliferation assays using MCF-7 cells.
• In vivo mouse uterine weight tests.
• Hormone level analysis (luteinizing hormone and estrogen).
• Gene expression analysis of estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ) and GPR30.
• Inhibition studies using estrogen receptor blockers.

Main Results:

• Both LA and PA significantly promoted MCF-7 cell proliferation.
• LA and PA increased uterine index, luteinizing hormone, and estrogen levels in immature female mice.
• PA upregulated ERα, ERβ, and GPR30 expression in uterine tissues and MCF-7 cells.
• LA upregulated ERα and ERβ expression.
• Estrogen receptor blockers abolished the proliferative effects of LA and PA.

Conclusions:

• 2-phenylacetamide (PA) possesses significant estrogenic activities.
• PA is the key compound mediating the estrogenic effects of Lepidium apetalum Willd (LA).
• LA and PA show potential for treating conditions like perimenopause syndrome.