Maslinic Acid
Also known as: Maslinic acid, Maslinic acid (2-alpha-hydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid), Maslinic acid (oleanolic acid derivative), Maslinic Acid
Overview
Maslinic acid is a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpene acid predominantly found in olives and various edible plants. It is traditionally used in herbal medicine, especially in Asian cultures, and has gained attention for its potential therapeutic properties. Research highlights its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-proliferative, and cardioprotective activities, with various preclinical studies demonstrating its effects on cellular processes like apoptosis and inflammation. Despite what appears to be promising renal protective effects and other health advantages, human clinical data on maslinic acid remain limited, necessitating more comprehensive trials to validate these preliminary findings. Forms of maslinic acid include supplements derived from olive extracts, emphasizing the importance of sourcing quality products.
Benefits
Maslinic acid provides several evidence-based benefits: 1. **Renoprotection**: Animal studies indicate significant enhancement of renal function, evidenced by reduced levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (SCr) after ischemic injury, highlighting its potential in kidney health. 2. **Anti-inflammatory Effects**: It effectively lowers pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduces oxidative stress via free radical scavenging mechanisms. 3. **Anti-proliferative Effects**: In vitro studies show that maslinic acid inhibits cell growth across various cancer cell lines, exhibiting moderate potency. 4. **Cardiovascular Benefits**: Research demonstrates the compound's capacity to promote endothelium-dependent vasodilation, beneficial for cardiovascular health. Those with acute kidney injury or at elevated risk for certain cancers may derive notable advantages from maslinic acid. However, further well-structured clinical studies are essential to substantiate these findings in human populations.
How it works
Maslinic acid modulates key signaling pathways implicated in inflammation and cellular survival. It inhibits NF-κB and MAPK pathway activation, leading to diminished inflammatory responses and enhanced apoptosis in cancer cells. Additionally, maslinic acid functions as an antioxidant by scavenging harmful peroxyl radicals and chelating metal ions that could amplify oxidative stress. This multifaceted mechanism enhances its protective effects on renal and cardiovascular systems, while also presenting potential anti-cancer benefits.
Side effects
Research indicates a favorable safety profile for maslinic acid primarily based on animal studies. Specific adverse effects in humans are not well-documented, and no common side effects have been reported in literature; however, this is largely due to the limited scope of human trials. There is potential for drug interactions with medications that are substrates of the MRP1 transporter since maslinic acid may act as a non-competitive inhibitor of this transporter. The safety of maslinic acid during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and for pediatric use remains unexamined, warranting caution in these populations. While serious adverse effects have not been recorded, additional human trials are crucial to fully assess the safety and tolerability of maslinic acid.
Dosage
No established clinical guidelines for maslinic acid dosage in humans exist due to the absence of robust clinical trials. Animal studies suggest effective doses ranging from 50 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg, with daily administration providing optimal results. Various routes have been explored for administration, including dietary supplements and intraperitoneal injections, each exhibiting differences in bioavailability and absorption that could vary in humans. Until definitive clinical guidelines emerge, consultation with a healthcare professional regarding maslinic acid usage is recommended for personalized advice.
FAQs
Is maslinic acid safe?
While generally regarded as safe in animal studies, data on human safety is limited. More research is warranted.
How should maslinic acid be taken?
Current research supports daily administration, but specific human dosage guidelines are not yet established.
What benefits can I expect?
Potential benefits include renal protection and anti-inflammatory effects, albeit confirmation in human trials is needed.
Can I use maslinic acid instead of medication?
It should not replace medical treatment and should be consulted with a healthcare professional before use.
Research Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3765820/ – This article discusses the pharmacological properties of maslinic acid, highlighting its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities observed in preclinical studies. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into its clinical applications and effects in humans.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24139130/ – This study presents evidence of maslinic acid's protective effects on renal health in animal models of ischemia. It shows significant improvements in renal function as measured by BUN and SCr levels, suggesting potential relevance for treating kidney conditions.
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304416510001970 – The review article explores the mechanisms by which maslinic acid imparts cardiovascular protective effects, primarily focusing on its role in promoting vasodilation and its impact on endothelial function, laying groundwork for potential therapeutic use.