Major Research Findings

Celastrol, a natural product isolated from the plant Thunder God Vine, has been widely studied for its pharmacological activities, including anti-tumor activities. 1 has shown that Celastrol suppresses the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells by covalently targeting peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1), a protein involved in regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The study also identified a new derivative compound, 19-048, which exhibited improved potency against PRDX1 and selectivity towards PRDX2~PRDX6.

Triptolide (TPL), another active compound extracted from Thunder God Vine, has shown anti-cancer activity in human prostate cancer cells. 2 found that TPL inhibits the transactivation activity of both full-length and truncated androgen receptor (AR) without changing their protein levels. This inhibition of AR signaling pathway ultimately suppresses the proliferation of enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancer cells.

Thunder God Vine is also being investigated for its potential in treating rheumatoid arthritis. reviewed the effectiveness of herbal medicinal products (HMPs) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and found that GLA (gamma linolenic acid) contained in some Thunder God Vine products showed benefit in alleviating rheumatic complaints.

Reasons for Side Effects

Celastrol and triptolide, compounds extracted from Thunder God Vine, exhibit various pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. However, they can also cause side effects due to their ability to bind to different proteins, potentially disrupting the normal function of cells. 1

Common Side Effects

Gastrointestinal

Celastrol has been reported to cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. 1

Hepatic Dysfunction

Celastrol has been reported to cause liver dysfunction. 1

Skin

Celastrol has been reported to cause skin rash, itching, and redness. 1

Blood

Celastrol has been reported to cause leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. 1

Other

Celastrol has been reported to cause fever, headache, and fatigue. 1

Side Effect Management

Gastrointestinal

If gastrointestinal side effects occur, appropriate measures such as dietary management and medication should be taken. Follow your doctor's instructions, and if you are on a diet, focus on consuming easily digestible foods. If medication is needed, follow your doctor's instructions and take the prescribed medication appropriately.

Hepatic Dysfunction

If you suspect liver dysfunction, seek immediate medical attention. Follow your doctor's instructions and receive appropriate treatment.

Skin

If you experience skin side effects, over-the-counter medications may be sufficient if the symptoms are mild. However, if the symptoms are severe, seek immediate medical attention.

Blood

If you experience blood side effects, seek immediate medical attention. Follow your doctor's instructions and receive appropriate treatment.

Other

If you experience other side effects, you may be able to observe them at home if they are mild. However, seek immediate medical attention if the symptoms are severe.

Research Comparison

Research Similarities

All three studies suggest that compounds found in Thunder God Vine have the potential to treat various diseases. However, the specific diseases each compound is effective against and the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. It is suggested that these compounds exhibit various pharmacological effects by binding to different proteins.

Research Differences

The three studies focus on different compounds. Celastrol is being investigated for its potential to suppress the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells. 1 Triptolide is being investigated for its potential to suppress the proliferation of enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancer cells. 2 GLA is being investigated for its potential to alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It is believed that these compounds exert their effects through different mechanisms of action.

Cautions for Real-life Applications

While compounds found in Thunder God Vine show potential for treating various diseases, they also carry the risk of side effects. When taking these compounds, make sure to do so under the guidance of a physician. Also exercise caution when using commercially available supplements or other products containing these ingredients. Carefully check the product's ingredients and instructions for use, and confirm that it is suitable for your body type before use. This is especially important for pregnant and breastfeeding women, who should consult a physician before using these products.

Current Research Limitations

The pharmacological effects of compounds found in Thunder God Vine are not yet fully understood. Further research is needed, particularly on the mechanisms of side effects. Furthermore, longer-term studies are necessary to evaluate the safety of these compounds.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on further elucidating the pharmacological effects of compounds found in Thunder God Vine. It is particularly important to unravel the mechanisms of side effects and develop strategies to mitigate them. Longer-term studies are necessary to evaluate the safety of these compounds. Additionally, formulation development and clinical trials are needed to effectively utilize these compounds.

Conclusion

Thunder God Vine has been used in traditional medicine for a long time. In recent years, it has been discovered to possess various pharmacological effects, raising expectations for the development of new drugs. However, since there are risks of side effects, it is important to take these compounds under the guidance of a physician. Future research is expected to further elucidate the pharmacological effects of compounds found in Thunder God Vine, leading to the development of safe and effective drugs.