Rhodiola rosea L. modulates inflammatory processes in a CRH-activated BV2 cell model

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Herbal Medicine

Background:

• Rhodiola rosea L. is a traditional adaptogen used for stress relief.
• European Medicines Agency classifies R. rosea as a herbal medicinal product for stress symptoms.
• Neuroinflammation is increasingly linked to stress responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate R. rosea's modulation of molecular inflammatory processes.
• Examine the effect of R. rosea ethanolic extract on CRH-stimulated microglial cells.
• Explore the link between R. rosea's anti-stress effects and neuroinflammation.

Main Methods:

• BV2 microglial cells were stimulated with corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH).
• Assessed cell viability, cytokine production, and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) levels.
• Analyzed nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathways.

Main Results:

• R. rosea extract inhibited CRH-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation.
• The extract modulated MAPK pathways, including MKK2, ERK1/2, and JNK.
• Reduced HSP70 expression was observed, indicating a counteraction of neuroinflammation.

Conclusions:

• This study elucidates intracellular mechanisms of R. rosea's anti-stress activity.
• R. rosea modulates neuroinflammatory pathways, supporting its adaptogenic properties.
• Findings may aid research into other adaptogen drugs.