Neoandrographolides
Also known as: Neoandrographolide, Andrographolide derivative
Overview
Neoandrographolide is a natural diterpenoid lactone compound isolated from the leaves and stems of *Andrographis paniculata* (Burm. f.) Nees, a plant widely used in traditional Asian medicine. Structurally similar to andrographolide, it is primarily investigated for its potential anti-inflammatory, antiviral (particularly against SARS-CoV-2), neuroprotective, and metabolic regulatory properties. While *Andrographis paniculata* extracts and andrographolide have more extensive research, neoandrographolide itself is the subject of growing preclinical and in silico studies. It is classified as a phytochemical and a bioactive diterpenoid lactone. The current research maturity level for neoandrographolide is moderate, with most evidence derived from in vitro, animal models, and computational docking studies, rather than human clinical trials.
Benefits
Neoandrographolide shows promising, primarily preclinical, benefits. Its most notable potential is its antiviral activity, with in silico studies suggesting multi-target inhibitory effects against SARS-CoV-2 proteins, including viral proteases and binding to the ACE2 receptor. This indicates a possible role in combating viral infections, though clinical validation is pending. Related compounds within *A. paniculata* extracts have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits in animal models, improving lipid profiles and reducing insulin resistance. Furthermore, neuroprotective effects, such as enhanced neurogenesis and modulation of signaling pathways implicated in neurodegeneration, have been observed with the closely related compound andrographolide, suggesting similar potential for neoandrographolide. Secondary effects, such as anti-senescence and anti-cardiac apoptosis, have also been noted in preclinical models. However, specific clinical benefits in humans for neoandrographolide alone have not yet been conclusively demonstrated, and most quantitative data on effect sizes pertain to andrographolide or whole plant extracts.
How it works
Neoandrographolide exerts its effects through several biological pathways. It is predicted to inhibit viral proteases, such as the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro/3CLpro), and interfere with viral entry by binding to the viral spike protein and the ACE2 receptor. Beyond antiviral actions, it is thought to modulate Wnt signaling pathways and inhibit glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), mechanisms implicated in neuroprotection and inflammation. While specific data for neoandrographolide's interaction with body systems are limited, related compounds like andrographolide are known to cross the blood-brain barrier, influencing central nervous system pathways, and impacting metabolic and inflammatory processes in the liver and adipose tissue. Its molecular targets include viral proteins, components of the Wnt signaling pathway, and GSK-3β.
Side effects
The safety profile of neoandrographolide is not well characterized due to a lack of specific human clinical trials. Its safety is largely inferred from studies on *Andrographis paniculata* extracts and andrographolide, which are generally considered safe at recommended doses. Common side effects for *A. paniculata* extracts may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, though specific frequencies for neoandrographolide are unknown. Uncommon side effects, such as allergic reactions, have been rarely reported with *A. paniculata*. Serious adverse events are rare in high-quality trials for *A. paniculata* extracts. Potential drug interactions include those with anticoagulants and immunosuppressants, given its inferred anti-inflammatory properties; however, specific data for neoandrographolide are absent. Contraindications for *A. paniculata* extracts include pregnancy and lactation, and caution is advised for children and individuals with autoimmune diseases. These warnings are extrapolated to neoandrographolide due to its structural and source similarities.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose and optimal dosage ranges for neoandrographolide are not established, as it is not widely available as an isolated supplement. Dosing guidelines are extrapolated from studies on andrographolide, where clinical doses typically range from 30 to 60 mg/day. Preclinical animal studies have utilized doses of 50-100 mg/kg, but human extrapolation is uncertain. The maximum safe dose for neoandrographolide is undefined; however, *A. paniculata* extracts are generally considered safe up to 1800 mg/day in humans. Neoandrographolide is typically administered orally, and timing relative to meals may influence absorption. Most commercially available products are *A. paniculata* extracts standardized to andrographolide content, rather than isolated neoandrographolide. Bioavailability may be a factor, with ongoing research into formulation technologies to enhance absorption.
FAQs
Is neoandrographolide effective against COVID-19?
In silico studies suggest neoandrographolide may inhibit multiple SARS-CoV-2 targets, but clinical efficacy in humans against COVID-19 is currently unproven and requires further research.
Is neoandrographolide safe to use?
Specific safety data for neoandrographolide are lacking. Its safety profile is inferred from *Andrographis paniculata* extracts, which are generally considered safe at recommended doses, but caution is advised.
How soon can benefits be expected from neoandrographolide?
The time course for benefits is unknown. Preclinical studies show effects over days to weeks, but human data for neoandrographolide are insufficient to determine this.
Can neoandrographolide be used with other medications?
Caution is advised due to potential interactions, particularly with anticoagulants and immunosuppressants. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining with other medications.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12351123/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the adjunctive benefits of *Andrographis paniculata* extracts in COVID-19. It suggests potential benefits but highlights limitations due to small sample sizes and methodological variability across studies, indicating a need for larger, well-designed clinical trials.
- https://japsonline.com/abstract.php?article_id=3936&sts=2 – This systematic review focused on in silico studies of *Andrographis paniculata* compounds, including neoandrographolide, for their potential against SARS-CoV-2. It found that neoandrographolide is predicted to inhibit multiple viral targets, providing preliminary computational evidence for its antiviral potential, though clinical validation is still required.
- https://cellbiopharm.com/ojs/index.php/MCBS/article/download/432/156 – This preclinical study investigated the neuroprotective effects of andrographolide, a closely related compound to neoandrographolide. It demonstrated that andrographolide crosses the blood-brain barrier and modulates neurogenesis via GSK-3β inhibition in animal models, offering mechanistic insight into potential neuroprotective actions, though not directly on neoandrographolide.
- https://jppres.com/jppres/pdf/vol12/jppres23.1841_12.3.487.pdf – This research explores the anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects of *Andrographis paniculata* extracts. It suggests that related compounds can improve lipid profiles and reduce insulin resistance in animal models, providing a basis for the potential metabolic benefits of neoandrographolide, though specific studies on neoandrographolide are needed.
