Mogroside V
Also known as: Mogroside V, monk fruit sweetener, luo-han-guo mogroside
Overview
Mogroside V is a cucurbitane-type triterpene glycoside, and the primary sweet compound extracted from the fruit of *Siraitia grosvenorii*, commonly known as monk fruit. It is approximately 250 times sweeter than sucrose and is non-caloric, making it a popular natural sweetener alternative to sugar. Beyond its sweetening properties, Mogroside V is recognized as a bioactive phytochemical with emerging applications due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential metabolic modulating effects. Research into Mogroside V is primarily in preclinical and early clinical stages, with numerous animal and in vitro studies exploring its potential in metabolic health, neuroprotection, and anti-inflammatory therapies. While promising, large-scale human clinical trials are still limited, indicating a moderate level of research maturity.
Benefits
Mogroside V exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily demonstrated in preclinical models. In metabolic health, it has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rat models. Studies indicate significant transcriptomic changes, restoring ovarian gene expression towards normal, with 1943 genes upregulated and 1548 downregulated post-treatment (p < 0.05) [1]. For neuroprotection, Mogroside V enhanced motor coordination and inhibited dopaminergic neuronal loss in Parkinson’s disease (PD) mouse models, significantly modulating 160 differential metabolites and restoring metabolic balance (p < 0.05) [2]. It also demonstrates anti-hyperglycemic effects by suppressing plasma glucose elevation after maltose intake in rats through the inhibition of intestinal maltase [4]. Secondary benefits include anti-inflammatory gene regulation in macrophages and skin models, and antioxidant effects that reduce lung inflammation and protect oocyte meiosis [4, 5]. These benefits are primarily observed in rodent models of PCOS, diabetes, and neurodegeneration, with significant molecular and physiological improvements. However, human data is currently lacking, and clinical relevance in humans remains to be established.
How it works
Mogroside V exerts its effects through several biological pathways. It modulates gene expression related to insulin signaling, estrogen synthesis, and inflammation, particularly in conditions like PCOS [1]. In neurodegenerative models, it regulates metabolic pathways, including sphingolipid, fatty acid, and amino acid metabolism, contributing to the restoration of metabolic balance [2]. A key mechanism for its anti-hyperglycemic effect is the inhibition of intestinal maltase enzyme activity, which reduces glucose absorption from the gut [4]. Mogroside V interacts with various body systems, including the endocrine system (via insulin and estrogen pathways), the nervous system (protecting dopaminergic neurons), and the immune system (regulating inflammatory genes). Known molecular targets include NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition in PCOS and the maltase enzyme in the intestine. While specific details on absorption and bioavailability are not extensively detailed, its observed effects in orally administered animal models suggest oral bioavailability.
Side effects
Preclinical data suggest a good safety profile for Mogroside V, with no significant adverse effects reported in animal studies. There are no documented common, uncommon, or rare side effects in the available research. Similarly, no drug interactions have been documented, although further research is needed to comprehensively assess this aspect. There are no established contraindications for Mogroside V. However, it is important to note that the safety in special populations, such as pregnant or lactating women, children, or individuals with chronic diseases, has not been established. The current research primarily focuses on animal models, and comprehensive human safety data, including potential interactions and contraindications, are still required.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for Mogroside V is not standardized, and optimal dosage ranges for humans are currently undefined. Animal studies have utilized varied doses, with both low and high doses showing efficacy in neuroprotection models [2]. The maximum safe dose for human consumption has not been established. In animal models, effects have been observed with pre-treatment or chronic administration over weeks to months. Mogroside V is typically administered as a purified extract or as part of monk fruit extract. Information regarding specific absorption factors or required cofactors is not reported in the available research. Due to the limited human data, specific dosing recommendations for therapeutic purposes cannot be provided, and current usage is primarily as a non-caloric sweetener.
FAQs
Is mogroside V safe for human consumption?
Mogroside V is generally recognized as safe as a sweetener. However, its safety for therapeutic purposes requires more extensive human clinical data.
Does mogroside V help with blood sugar control?
Animal studies suggest it can reduce postprandial glucose spikes by inhibiting intestinal maltase, thereby limiting glucose absorption [4].
Can mogroside V protect against neurodegenerative diseases?
Preclinical Parkinson's disease models show neuroprotective effects, including improved motor coordination and reduced neuronal loss, but human trials are currently lacking [2].
How quickly does mogroside V work?
Benefits in animal models typically appear after days to weeks of administration; the exact human kinetics and onset of action are currently unknown.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11748252/ – This animal study in PCOS rats demonstrated that Mogroside V restored ovarian gene expression, improved insulin sensitivity, and enhanced estrogen synthesis, indicating significant therapeutic potential for metabolic and reproductive health in this model. The study highlighted extensive gene regulation changes.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11300226/ – Research in a Parkinson's disease mouse model showed that Mogroside V improved motor coordination and inhibited dopaminergic neuronal loss. It also significantly modulated 160 metabolites, suggesting a role in restoring metabolic balance in neurodegenerative conditions.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1253255/full – This systematic review, primarily based on bibliometric analysis of animal studies, concluded that Mogroside V inhibits intestinal maltase, leading to reduced blood glucose levels. It also highlighted anti-inflammatory effects in rodent models, supporting its potential for metabolic regulation.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21691401.2025.2486752?af=R – This study indicated that Mogroside V possesses antioxidant properties, which contribute to reducing lung inflammation and protecting oocyte meiosis. These findings suggest broader anti-inflammatory and protective effects beyond its role as a sweetener.
