Derivatives of sarcodonin A isolated from Sarcodon scabrosus reversed LPS-induced M1 polarization in microglia

Chen-Yu Cao1, Ying-Xiang Yang1, Zhao Xie1

  • 1Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.

Insights

Sarcodonin A and its derivative 6 show potential for Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapy by reducing neuroinflammation. They balance microglial phenotypes from M1 to M2, inhibiting inflammatory markers and supporting neuroprotection.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Microglial phenotype modulation is a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related neuroinflammation.
  • Alzheimer's disease is characterized by chronic neuroinflammation driven by microglial activation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the anti-neuroinflammatory effects of sarcodonin A and its derivatives.
  • To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of their action on microglial phenotypes.

Main Methods:

  • Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated primary microglia and cell lines were used as models.
  • Assays included nitrite tests, immunostaining, qRT-PCR, ELISA, western blotting, and molecular docking.
  • The effects on M1 and M2 microglial markers and inflammatory pathways (MAPK, NF-κB) were assessed.

Main Results:

  • Derivative 6 demonstrated superior inhibition of neuroinflammation compared to sarcodonin A.
  • Compound 6 significantly suppressed pro-inflammatory M1 markers (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, iNOS, COX-2) and enhanced anti-inflammatory M2 markers (IL-10, ARG-1).
  • Mechanistically, compound 6 inhibited MAPK activation, NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation, and showed interaction with iNOS via molecular docking.

Conclusions:

  • Sarcodonin A and derivative 6 show promise in reversing LPS-induced M1 microglial polarization.
  • These compounds may offer neuroprotection by targeting microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease.
  • Sarcodonin A derivatives represent potential therapeutic candidates for AD treatment.