Nicandra physalodes Extract Exerts Antiaging Effects in Multiple Models and Extends the Lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans via DAF-16 and HSF-1

The development of safe and effective therapeutic interventions is an important issue for delaying aging and reducing the risk of aging-related diseases. Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of aging and other complex diseases are desired due to their multiple components and targets. Through screening for effects on lifespan of 836 Chinese herbal medicine extracts, Nicandra physalodes extract (HL0285) was found to exhibit lifespan extension activity in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). In further experiments, HL0285 improved healthspan, enhanced stress resistance, and delayed the progression of neurodegenerative diseases in C. elegans. Additionally, it ameliorated senescence in human lung fibroblasts (MRC-5 cells) and reversed liver function damage and reduced senescence marker levels in doxorubicin- (Dox-) induced aging mice. In addition, the longevity effect of HL0285 in C. elegans was dependent on the DAF-16 and HSF-1 signaling pathways, as demonstrated by the results of the mutant lifespan, gene level, and GFP level assays. In summary, we discovered that HL0285 had an antiaging effect in C. elegans, MRC-5 cells, and Dox-induced aging mice and deserves to be explored in the future studies on antiaging agents.

Automated summary

The development of safe and effective therapeutic interventions to delay aging and reduce the risk of aging-related diseases is of great importance. Chinese herbal medicine, with its multiple components and targets, has shown potential in treating aging and complex diseases. This study found that Nicandra physalodes extract (HL0285) exhibited lifespan extension activity in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), improved healthspan, enhanced stress resistance, and delayed the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. HL0285 also ameliorated senescence in human lung fibroblasts and reversed liver function damage in aging mice induced by doxorubicin. The longevity effect of HL0285 in C. elegans was dependent on specific signaling pathways. Overall, HL0285 has demonstrated antiaging effects and should be further explored as a potential antiaging agent.