Product Overview
Cycloastragenol (CAG) is a triterpenoid saponin derived from the root of Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a long history of use in herbal medicine . It is recognized as a hydrolysis product of Astragaloside IV, one of the main active compounds in Astragalus root . CAG is widely marketed under the brand name TA-65 and is known for its potent biological activities, including telomerase activation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects .

Chemical Properties

• Molecular Formula: C₃₀H₅₀O₅
• Molecular Weight: 490.72
• CAS Number: 78574-94-4
• Appearance: Typically appears as a white or light yellow powder, with purity levels ranging from 50% to 98% 
• Solubility: Soluble in organic solvents such as DMSO, ethanol, and dimethylformamide (DMF), with solubility values of approximately 10, 3, and 25 mg/mL, respectively. Sparingly soluble in aqueous buffers 

Intended Use
Cycloastragenol is primarily used in research and development for its therapeutic potential in various biological processes. It is employed in studies related to aging, neurodegenerative diseases, immune function, and cardiovascular health . The compound is also used in the formulation of dietary supplements and nutraceuticals due to its broad spectrum of biological activities .

Biological Activity

1. Telomerase Activation:
   Cycloastragenol is a potent activator of telomerase, an enzyme critical for maintaining telomere length and preventing cellular aging. By enhancing telomerase activity, CAG helps to delay the onset of age-related diseases and supports the proliferation of T-cells, which is essential for immune function .
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
   CAG exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB, a key regulator of inflammatory responses. It reduces the expression of adhesion molecules such as E-selectin and VCAM-1, which are involved in leukocyte adhesion and inflammation .
3. Neuroprotective Effects:
   Cycloastragenol has been shown to protect against neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. It reduces oxidative stress, neurotrophic dysfunction, and mitochondrial apoptosis, while enhancing the expression of neurotrophic factors like BDNF and Nrf2, which are crucial for neuronal survival and function .
4. Cardiovascular Protection:
   CAG improves endothelial function by suppressing ROS-associated ER stress, inhibiting the TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and regulating AMPK activity. These effects contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases .
5. Antioxidant and Antioxidative Stress:
   CAG acts as a powerful antioxidant, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This property is particularly beneficial in the context of aging and chronic diseases .
6. Wound Healing and Cellular Repair:
   CAG promotes wound healing by extending T-cell proliferation and delaying cellular aging. It also supports the repair of DNA damage, which is essential for maintaining cellular integrity and function .

Storage and Handling

• Powder Form: Store at -20°C for up to 3 years.
• In Solvent: Store at -80°C for up to 1 year.
• Storage Conditions: Keep away from light and moisture to maintain product stability and purity .

Applications and Research
Cycloastragenol is widely used in both in vitro and in vivo studies to investigate its potential therapeutic applications. It has been tested in various models of aging, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammatory conditions. The compound is also used in the development of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements due to its safety profile and broad biological activities .

Conclusion
Cycloastragenol is a versatile and valuable compound with a wide range of biological activities. Its ability to activate telomerase, reduce oxidative stress, and protect against neurodegenerative and inflammatory conditions makes it a promising candidate for the treatment of age-related diseases. As a high-purity powder, it is suitable for both research and commercial applications, provided it is stored and handled under appropriate conditions