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Meretrix Meretrix Extract

Also known as: Asiatic hard clam extract, Meretrix clam extract, Marine bivalve mollusk extract, Meretrix meretrix extract

Overview

Meretrix meretrix, commonly known as the Asiatic hard clam, is a marine bivalve mollusk found extensively in the Indo-Pacific region. Extracts derived from this clam, particularly ethanolic preparations, are being explored for their potential health benefits, primarily focusing on hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) and immunomodulatory effects. Historically, the clam has been consumed as food and utilized in traditional folk medicine for addressing liver-related ailments. Current research on Meretrix meretrix extract includes in vitro, in vivo, and transcriptomic studies, which suggest promising biological activities. However, it is important to note that comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically evaluating its efficacy and safety as a dietary supplement in human populations are not yet available. Therefore, while preclinical findings are encouraging, more robust clinical evidence is needed to substantiate its widespread use.

Benefits

Preclinical studies suggest potential benefits of Meretrix meretrix extract, primarily in two areas. Firstly, it has shown hepatoprotective activity; an ethanolic extract from fresh and fermented *Meretrix meretrix* demonstrated the ability to reduce serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) levels in experimental models, indicating potential liver cell protection and anti-inflammatory effects. This suggests a role in mitigating liver damage. Secondly, research indicates potential for antibacterial immunity; transcriptomic and RNA interference studies on a specific variety of *Meretrix meretrix* revealed genes involved in antibacterial defense against pathogens like *Vibrio parahaemolyticus*, suggesting immune-enhancing properties. While these findings are promising, it is crucial to emphasize that these benefits are currently supported by preclinical and molecular studies, and there is a significant lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses in human subjects to confirm clinical efficacy, quantify benefits, or establish effect sizes.

How it works

The proposed mechanism of action for Meretrix meretrix extract's hepatoprotective effects is likely attributed to phytochemicals present in its ethanolic extract. These compounds are believed to exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, which can help reduce elevated liver enzyme levels, a common indicator of liver damage. For its immunomodulatory properties, molecular studies suggest that the extract may upregulate specific genes, such as *Hsp70* and *SP*, which are known to play roles in antibacterial defense mechanisms. This has been observed through RNA-seq and RNAi analysis in clams challenged with bacterial pathogens. However, the precise molecular targets and pathways through which these effects translate to human physiology remain largely undefined due to the limited amount of translational research conducted to date.

Side effects

Currently, there is a significant lack of specific safety data or documented adverse effect profiles for Meretrix meretrix extract in human subjects within the scientific literature. As *Meretrix meretrix* is a commonly consumed food source, it is generally considered safe when ingested as part of a typical diet. However, like all shellfish, it carries the inherent risk of causing allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive or allergic to shellfish. Symptoms of such allergies can range from mild (e.g., hives, itching) to severe (e.g., anaphylaxis). There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications reported in the reviewed scientific literature for Meretrix meretrix extract as a supplement. Due to the absence of human clinical trials, comprehensive information regarding its safety, potential side effects, or interactions with medications is not available. Therefore, caution is advised, especially for individuals with known shellfish allergies or those on medication.

Dosage

There are currently no established or standardized dosing guidelines for Meretrix meretrix extract as a dietary supplement. This is primarily due to the absence of human clinical trials that would typically determine effective and safe dosage ranges. Preclinical experimental studies have utilized ethanolic extracts prepared from fresh or fermented clams, but these preparations are not standardized for human consumption and vary significantly in concentration and composition. Without clinical data, it is impossible to specify recommended dosage ranges, optimal timing for administration, or different dosages for various therapeutic purposes. Furthermore, safe upper limits or toxicity thresholds for human intake have not been determined. Consumers should be aware that any product containing Meretrix meretrix extract on the market lacks evidence-based dosing recommendations, and its use should be approached with caution.

FAQs

Is Meretrix meretrix extract effective for liver protection in humans?

Current evidence for liver protection is limited to preclinical models. While promising, clinical efficacy in humans remains unproven due to a lack of human trials.

Are there known side effects of Meretrix meretrix extract?

No specific human safety data or side effects are documented. However, individuals with shellfish allergies should exercise caution, as allergic reactions are possible.

How is Meretrix meretrix extract typically prepared?

The extract is commonly prepared through ethanol extraction of fresh or fermented clam tissue, as seen in research studies.

Can Meretrix meretrix extract boost human immunity?

Molecular studies in clams suggest antibacterial immune responses, but the direct relevance and efficacy for boosting human immunity are currently unclear and require further research.

Research Sources

  • https://www.sysrevpharm.org/articles/hepatoprotective-activity-of-ethanolic-extract-of-fresh-and-fermented-clam-meretrix-meretrix-from-kalimantan-indonesia.pdf – This experimental preclinical study investigated the hepatoprotective activity of ethanolic extracts from fresh and fermented *Meretrix meretrix*. The findings indicated that these extracts reduced SGPT levels in experimental models, suggesting potential liver protection and anti-inflammatory effects, with phytochemical screening identifying bioactive compounds. However, the study acknowledges limitations due to the absence of human trials, meaning clinical relevance and effect sizes are currently unknown.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9420185/ – This molecular biology study utilized integrated RNA-seq and RNAi analysis to explore the roles of Hsp70 and SP genes in the antibacterial immunity of *Meretrix meretrix* when challenged with *Vibrio* bacteria. The research identified key genes involved in the clam's innate immune mechanisms, providing insights into its defense responses. A key limitation is that this is an animal model study, and its direct application to human immunity is not established.
  • https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/etc.5494 – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on transcriptional responses as biomarkers of general stress in bivalves, not specifically *Meretrix meretrix*. While it evaluated the general responsiveness of transcriptional biomarkers under various stress conditions, its findings are more relevant for environmental monitoring and understanding bivalve physiology in response to stressors rather than providing insights into the health benefits or supplementation effects of *Meretrix meretrix* for human consumption.

Supplements Containing Meretrix Meretrix Extract

Nei Xiao Luo Li Teapills by Plum Flower
60

Nei Xiao Luo Li Teapills

Plum Flower

Score: 60/100