Anti-senescence effects of Rhodiola crenulate extracts on LO2 cells and bioactive compounds

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Rhodiola crenulata (Rc) is a traditional herb, used in Tibetan medicine, has shown promise efficacy in physical performance improvement, work capacity enhancement, fatigue elimination, and altitude sickness prevention. Also, Rc exhibited therapeutic effects on aging-related diseases. However, relevant researches on Rc and their bioactive components are quite few and needs further investigation. Aim of the study: The objective of this study was to understand the relationship between phytochemical profiles and their activities of Rc extracts. Materials and methods: Rc extracts prepared by solvents with various hydrophilicity (i.e. aqueous ethanol (70%, v/v), water, and ethyl acetate), and their chemical compositions and specific compounds were analyzed by chemical analysis method and ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spec-trometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). The regulate effects of Rc extracts on senescence and antioxidant activity were evaluated using the models of LO2 cells and Caenorhabditis elegans. Results: The 70% ethanol extracts exhibited better regulating effects on senescence via the assays of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA beta G) staining and lifespan, which was consistent with the higher antioxidant ac-tivities observed based on the results of antioxidant assays. A total of 14 phytochemicals have been identified in 70% ethanol extracts, whereas the other two extracts contained much fewer compounds in varieties. Phyto-chemical profile of water extract was similar to the first half (polar compounds, running time: 0-6 min) of 70% ethanol extract profile, while those of ethyl acetate extract was consistent with its second half (more nonpolar compounds, running time: 6-12 min). Conclusions: The 14 phytochemicals in Rc might exhibit additive or synergistic effects on senescence regulating and antioxidant activities, providing theoretical basis for daily administration of Rc.

Automated summary

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between phytochemical profiles and activities of Rhodiola crenulata (Rc) extracts. The study found that the 70% ethanol extracts exhibited better effects on senescence regulation and antioxidant activities. A total of 14 phytochemicals were identified in the extracts, and they might exhibit additive or synergistic effects. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the daily use of Rc.